New Category : About Bahamians

Governor-General during first official PMH visit cheers the spirit of giving and sharing with the needy and less fortunate

Fri, Dec 8th 2023, 01:20 PM

Her Excellency the Most Honourable Cynthia A. Pratt extended appreciation and encouragement to the staff of Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) for their “faithful” and “dedicated” service during her first official Christmas visit to the health care facility.

“Your tireless efforts, your unwavering commitment and boundless compassion, are the true embodiment of the Christmas message. You are a guiding star that shines brightly in the lives of the patients who come through these doors seeking healing and hope. Your work is a testament to the transformative power of love and care,” said the Governor-General during the annual event.

She encouraged the employees to continue their “noble” journey with the knowledge that their service is truly appreciated and brings immeasurable comfort and joy to those in their care.

She also reflected on the significance of healing the sick and less fortunate, and urged those gathered to embrace the spirit of giving and sharing with the needy and less fortunate, not only at Christmas but all through the year.

The Hon. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness gave an overview of PMH for 2023 and led a moment of silence for the late Dr. Perry Gomez, former member of parliament and minister of health, and an infectious disease specialist/consultant who contributed to PMH and the treatment of HIV AIDS in The Bahamas. Dr. Gomez passed away in October.

Dr. Darville remarked that a mixed feeling of perception exists among Bahamians who interface to receive services from tertiary health care facilities in the country.

“For us this is of paramount concern because in 2024 we are going to move with a spirit of excellence to ensure that the people that we are privileged to serve speak highly about their experience here at the PMH.”

Andrew Edwards, Chairman, PHA Board of Directors, recognized and awarded some employees for “going above and beyond”.

Following the ceremony, the Governor-General, along with Minister Darville and other officials toured the hospital. 

The theme for the annual event was “Let your Light Shine”. It was attended by Colin Higgs, Permanent Secretary; Dr. Aubynette Rolle, Managing Director, PHA; and employees, board of directors and senior officials of PMH and PHA.

Her Excellency the Most Honourable Cynthia A. Pratt extended appreciation and encouragement to the staff of Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) for their “faithful” and “dedicated” service during her first official Christmas visit to the health care facility. “Your tireless efforts, your unwavering commitment and boundless compassion, are the true embodiment of the Christmas message. You are a guiding star that shines brightly in the lives of the patients who come through these doors seeking healing and hope. Your work is a testament to the transformative power of love and care,” said the Governor-General during the annual event. She encouraged the employees to continue their “noble” journey with the knowledge that their service is truly appreciated and brings immeasurable comfort and joy to those in their care.   She also reflected on the significance of healing the sick and less fortunate, and urged those gathered to embrace the spirit of giving and sharing with the needy and less fortunate, not only at Christmas but all through the year. The Hon. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness gave an overview of PMH for 2023 and led a moment of silence for the late Dr. Perry Gomez, former member of parliament and minister of health, and an infectious disease specialist/consultant who contributed to PMH and the treatment of HIV AIDS in The Bahamas. Dr. Gomez passed away in October. Dr. Darville remarked that a mixed feeling of perception exists among Bahamians who interface to receive services from tertiary health care facilities in the country. “For us this is of paramount concern because in 2024 we are going to move with a spirit of excellence to ensure that the people that we are privileged to serve speak highly about their experience here at the PMH.” Andrew Edwards, Chairman, PHA Board of Directors, recognized and awarded some employees for “going above and beyond”. Following the ceremony, the Governor-General, along with Minister Darville and other officials toured the hospital.    The theme for the annual event was “Let your Light Shine”. It was attended by Colin Higgs, Permanent Secretary; Dr. Aubynette Rolle, Managing Director, PHA; and employees, board of directors and senior officials of PMH and PHA.

Bahamian Engineer Achieves Global Acclaim in Elite Women’s Tech Program

Wed, Dec 6th 2023, 03:37 PM

Cloud Carib, a leading Bahamian IT solutions provider, is delighted to announce that Veeam Software has selected one of its top Systems Engineers, Cordelia Dean to receive the notable distinction of being a finalist of over 150 others for the on-site training as a participant in the #EmpowHER VMCE program. Dean stands among the distinguished 12 women chosen globally for the in-person training at Veeam's Georgia headquarters. This selection aligns perfectly with Cloud Carib's and Veeam's mutual commitment to technological innovation and excellence while fostering diversity and inclusion in the IT industry.

Standing out from a pool of over 800+ applicants from around the world, Dean's selection highlights her remarkable talent and passion for technology. The #EmpowHER VMCE program, aligned with Veeam's Women in IT Empowerment initiative, empowers, and supports women in the IT industry by providing them with the opportunity to learn from Veeam experts and network with other women in the field.

"At Veeam we think of Education as a tool for professional development. EmpowHER VMCE is an initiative for all companies around us to upskill women, gain confidence, grow professionally, and thrive in their IT Careers. All women participating in the program are valid IT resources who will not only have an additional tool to shine but will also inspire and encourage others to advance,” said Federica Saba, Global Channel Program Success Manager at Veeam.

Dean's selection is a testament to her dedication to continuous learning and professional development. She has been working in the IT field for more than seven years and is currently pursuing dual Cybersecurity degrees, a Bachelor’s, and a Master's, at Kennesaw State University.

During the three-day on-site training at Veeam's offices in Alpharetta, Georgia, Dean underwent in-depth teaching on Veeam solutions, empowering her with the expertise to further contribute to Cloud Carib's overall success. She also had the opportunity to collaborate with other finalists and Veeam experts, fostering connections and exchanging ideas.

"I am incredibly honored to be selected as a finalist on top of being the only Bahamian on-site participant in the Veeam Software #EmpowHER VMCE program," said Dean. "Certifications are more than just formal qualifications; they signify our commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, ensuring top-quality services for our clients."

Stephen Darville, Senior Manager - Command and Control Center at Cloud Carib, expressed his pride in Dean's accomplishments, stating, "Cordelia's selection is a demonstration of her remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to the IT field. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to have on our company."

Dean's success serves as an inspiration to women throughout the Caribbean aspiring to pursue careers in the IT industry. Her journey highlights the importance of empowering and supporting women in this field, ensuring that their voices and contributions are recognized and valued. With an unwavering passion for technology, Dean encourages aspiring women in IT not to succumb to challenges but to leverage their motivations to persist and thrive.

Cloud Carib, a leading Bahamian IT solutions provider, is delighted to announce that Veeam Software has selected one of its top Systems Engineers, Cordelia Dean to receive the notable distinction of being a finalist of over 150 others for the on-site training as a participant in the #EmpowHER VMCE program. Dean stands among the distinguished 12 women chosen globally for the in-person training at Veeam's Georgia headquarters. This selection aligns perfectly with Cloud Carib's and Veeam's mutual commitment to technological innovation and excellence while fostering diversity and inclusion in the IT industry. Standing out from a pool of over 800+ applicants from around the world, Dean's selection highlights her remarkable talent and passion for technology. The #EmpowHER VMCE program, aligned with Veeam's Women in IT Empowerment initiative, empowers, and supports women in the IT industry by providing them with the opportunity to learn from Veeam experts and network with other women in the field. "At Veeam we think of Education as a tool for professional development. EmpowHER VMCE is an initiative for all companies around us to upskill women, gain confidence, grow professionally, and thrive in their IT Careers. All women participating in the program are valid IT resources who will not only have an additional tool to shine but will also inspire and encourage others to advance,” said Federica Saba, Global Channel Program Success Manager at Veeam. Dean's selection is a testament to her dedication to continuous learning and professional development. She has been working in the IT field for more than seven years and is currently pursuing dual Cybersecurity degrees, a Bachelor’s, and a Master's, at Kennesaw State University. During the three-day on-site training at Veeam's offices in Alpharetta, Georgia, Dean underwent in-depth teaching on Veeam solutions, empowering her with the expertise to further contribute to Cloud Carib's overall success. She also had the opportunity to collaborate with other finalists and Veeam experts, fostering connections and exchanging ideas. "I am incredibly honored to be selected as a finalist on top of being the only Bahamian on-site participant in the Veeam Software #EmpowHER VMCE program," said Dean. "Certifications are more than just formal qualifications; they signify our commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, ensuring top-quality services for our clients." Stephen Darville, Senior Manager - Command and Control Center at Cloud Carib, expressed his pride in Dean's accomplishments, stating, "Cordelia's selection is a demonstration of her remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to the IT field. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to have on our company." Dean's success serves as an inspiration to women throughout the Caribbean aspiring to pursue careers in the IT industry. Her journey highlights the importance of empowering and supporting women in this field, ensuring that their voices and contributions are recognized and valued. With an unwavering passion for technology, Dean encourages aspiring women in IT not to succumb to challenges but to leverage their motivations to persist and thrive.

Social Services sees increase in requests for speech therapy, occupational and physiotherapy services

Mon, Dec 4th 2023, 01:29 PM

The Department of Social Services has seen an increase in the demand for speech therapy, occupational and physiotherapy services according to Charlamae Fernander, Acting Director.

Ms. Fernander addressed a press conference Monday, to launch Disability Awareness Week 2023 in recognition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebrated on December 3. The Disability Affairs Division has planned a week of activities from December 1 – 9 to the theme 'Inclusion in Action.'

The press conference, held Monday, November 27, 2023 at Stapledon School, Dolphin Drive, was attended by the Hon. Myles LaRoda, State Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting; Joel Lewis, permanent secretary; representatives of NGOs; the Disability Affairs Division, the Department of Social Services; Down Syndrome Association; the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, and students and teachers from Stapledon School, Centre for the Deaf and Erin Gilmour School for the Blind.

Ms. Fernander said the Department recognizes that equal opportunities must be provided for all persons with disabilities, and they should not be a community afterthought.

“We recognize that these services are needed, therefore, the current budget allocation will have to be increased. Meanwhile, the Department is making every effort to lead the way in ensuring that accessibility is the focus when planning its offices, residential care facilities, services, programmes, activities, etc.”

She informed that a proposal to link all of the Divisions under one Management Information System has been submitted. This will allow social services to be accessed in one location – the Disability Affairs Division – the arm of the Department of Social Services mandated to provide assistance to persons with disabilities.

“The Department is aware that under the present system clients must often visit more than one office for services.  Applications of persons with disabilities do not always receive the priority they deserve,” said Ms. Fernander.

Three hundred and thirty clients current receive assistance from the Department including cash grants and programmes.

The Disability Affairs Division is located at 8th Terrace East, Collins Avenue.

The Department of Social Services has seen an increase in the demand for speech therapy, occupational and physiotherapy services according to Charlamae Fernander, Acting Director. Ms. Fernander addressed a press conference Monday, to launch Disability Awareness Week 2023 in recognition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebrated on December 3. The Disability Affairs Division has planned a week of activities from December 1 – 9 to the theme 'Inclusion in Action.'   The press conference, held Monday, November 27, 2023 at Stapledon School, Dolphin Drive, was attended by the Hon. Myles LaRoda, State Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting; Joel Lewis, permanent secretary; representatives of NGOs; the Disability Affairs Division, the Department of Social Services; Down Syndrome Association; the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, and students and teachers from Stapledon School, Centre for the Deaf and Erin Gilmour School for the Blind. Ms. Fernander said the Department recognizes that equal opportunities must be provided for all persons with disabilities, and they should not be a community afterthought. “We recognize that these services are needed, therefore, the current budget allocation will have to be increased. Meanwhile, the Department is making every effort to lead the way in ensuring that accessibility is the focus when planning its offices, residential care facilities, services, programmes, activities, etc.” She informed that a proposal to link all of the Divisions under one Management Information System has been submitted. This will allow social services to be accessed in one location – the Disability Affairs Division – the arm of the Department of Social Services mandated to provide assistance to persons with disabilities. “The Department is aware that under the present system clients must often visit more than one office for services.  Applications of persons with disabilities do not always receive the priority they deserve,” said Ms. Fernander. Three hundred and thirty clients current receive assistance from the Department including cash grants and programmes.   The Disability Affairs Division is located at 8th Terrace East, Collins Avenue.

Best of the Best Regatta, Montagu Bay - DAY ONE

Fri, Dec 1st 2023, 09:28 AM

Lady Kayla won the first series race in Class E #0166
Mako finished 2nd in the E Class #0112

Class C winner, Long Island Sassie Sue #1544
Black Point H20 was 2nd in the C Class  #1647
Bull Reg finished 3rd in the C Class  #1553

New Susan Chase was 1st in Class B #1710
Lonesome Dove finished 2nd #1784
Lady Sonia was 3rd #1806

Running Tide was 1st in Class A #0408
Ed Sky finished 2nd in Class A #0378
Ruff Justice was 3rd in Class A #1907

Lady Kayla won the first series race in Class E #0166 Mako finished 2nd in the E Class #0112 Class C winner, Long Island Sassie Sue #1544 Black Point H20 was 2nd in the C Class  #1647 Bull Reg finished 3rd in the C Class        #1553 New Susan Chase was 1st in Class B #1710 Lonesome Dove finished 2nd #1784 Lady Sonia was 3rd #1806 Running Tide was 1st in Class A #0408 Ed Sky finished 2nd in Class A #0378 Ruff Justice was 3rd in Class A #1907