Bermuda Hosts 2023 SDG Disrupter Summit

The 2023 SDG Disrupter Summit was held on June 7-8 as attendees from various sectors joined together to celebrate World Oceans Day.

A spokesperson said, “It was a forum where local and international perspectives were shared through panels, keynote speeches, roundtables and breakout discussions.

“This intergenerational event began at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI] on the evening of June 7th, where guests attended a welcoming reception dinner at the Harbourfront Restaurant.

“On the morning of June 8th the Athene Career Development Center at Bermuda College became a vibrant hub of ideas and innovation. The event, organized by the Bermuda Innovation & Technology Association, Bermuda Asset Management, and Bridging The Gap Ventures, proved to be a resounding success, garnering significant attention and drew a remarkable range of influential voices and stakeholders committed to driving positive change for our oceans and planet.

“Attendees ranging in age from 17 – 78 years old were led through thought provoking activities by innovation expert Kelly Lovell, a 3X TEDx speaker, Top 30 Under 30, and founding chair of YOUNGA and BridgingTheGap Ventures.”

Kevin Richards, Chairman of the Bermuda Innovation & Technology Association [BITA], said, “We had a strong sense of urgency coming into the Summit.

“Internationally, Bermuda has a large voice as a big blue state with a significant Exclusive Economic Zone, and we felt that it was critical to amplify the voice of our country’s young people, host a summit that brought focus to this important day and highlight the importance of our ocean.

“The World Ocean Day Summit was positioned as an intergenerational discussion about our ocean, our climate and looking at transformative solutions that can increase society’s transition to net zero.”

The spokesperson said, “The morning session of the Summit featured esteemed Government leaders who shared their visions for Bermuda’s future. Deputy Premier and Minister of Home Affairs Walter Roban expressed his enthusiasm for participating in the event for the second consecutive year.”

Minister Roban said, “I was again pleased to participate in the event. As the pace of new technologies entering the market increases, I expect these disruptors to become a regular part of our life. However, rather than problems, we should look at these new ideas as opportunities and solutions to global challenges.

“The thought leaders, oceanographers, sustainability experts, youth activists, creators and impact investors from around the world participating in this event play a vital role in our future success. This success is measured not in dollars or possessions but in how it positively impacts the human race.”

Senator Owen Darrell, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Sport, said, “I recently had the opportunity to attend the World Ocean Day SDG Disrupter Summit. In the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sport, we truly believe that the uniqueness of our people and our culture are our greatest asset. I believe that such partnerships serve as an invaluable opportunity to learn more about how we can inspire our youth, our sports talent and our creatives to make lasting impacts in their surrounding communities.”

The spokesperson said, “The presence of Bodhi Patil, Intergenerational Collaboration Advisor, UN Ocean-Climate Solutionist, Co-creator of Oceanuprise, and leading co-host of the SDG Summit was an event highlight who brought energy, passion and deep knowledge of ocean-related issues. Patil shared valuable insights on solutions being implemented worldwide that can be readily adopted by Bermuda today.”

Bodhi Patil said, “This past week I had the privilege of leading the SDG Disruptor Summit for World Oceans Day alongside the incredible team from Bermuda Asset Management & YOUNGA The event served as a catalyst for collaboration and oceanic innovation, leaving a lasting impact on all involved. Many islanders share a profound connection with the ocean and are actively working towards building a blue economy.

“Beyond its international business reputation, Bermuda is a captivating Atlantic Ocean island archipelago with a rich history rooted in volcanic origins. This vibrant destination is not only a haven for maritime enthusiasts, it’s also a hub of #sustainability and prosperity.”

The spokesperson said, “Key insights were shared by Bermudian youth panelists, Dr. Carika Weldon [Geneticist/Biochemist] and Noelle Young [Aquaculturist], who shared inspirational insights into their battles with Bermudas lack of societal and financial support for innovative youth.

“Dr. Weldon voiced her journey from scientist and researcher to her current standing as one of the only female start-up entrepreneur in her industry, Founder of CariGenetics and BioQuest. As a student, Dr. Weldon was questioned about what she planned to do with her degrees, and while daunting at times, she has carved out a path that could fundamentally change the global healthcare industry.

“Notably, Mrs. Young shed light on the need for educational career pathways in STEM, she also emphasized the need for modern high-efficiency aquaculture/agriculture solutions to be implemented as part of the school curriculum, in efforts to remedy Bermudas food sustainability dilemma as well as equipping locals with the skills necessary to excel in the emerging blue economy sector. Bermuda can foster sustainable economic growth while preserving its oceanic ecosystems.

“The engaging afternoon session further explored SDG 14-focused topics, including ocean biodiversity, food security, blue economy challenges, renewable energy and sustainable practices. The round table discussion encompassed the voices of both youth participants and experienced members of public and private sectors, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.

“Given that one-third [31%] of the global population are young people aged 15-35, taking their views on board is necessary for enhancing accountability and helps to foster ‘active citizenship’ in these agents of change.

“Presently just over 1/3 of SDG Disrupter participants submitted an event survey. Key takeaways from the events clearly show that Bermudas youth want to be more involved in the decision-making processes of their countries future sustainability. Full results of the summit’s findings will be made available to the public, however we felt it necessary to share 6 significant recommendations at this time.

• 1. Build a tactical plan and succession plan for Bermuda to be represented in international bodies, i.e. Alliance of Small Island States, Sargasso Sea Alliance

• 2. Redefine the term youth, considered ages 15 to 40, as other countries have done. Redefining the term youth will provide more opportunities for Bermudians on both a national and international level.

• 3. Corporate boards should have intergenerational representation to ensure next gen perspectives are included in strategic planning and development.

• 4. Enhancement aquaculture should be paramount for replenishing our natural commercial species as well as feeding our community.

• 5. Policies enabling rapid adoption of electric vehicles will reduce the youth asthma rate and improve population health.

• 6. Expansion of Bermuda College so that it offers Bachelor’s degrees and an increased focus on developing a pipeline of Bermudian teachers.

“The SDG Disrupter Summit: World Oceans Day exemplified the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility necessary for addressing the pressing challenges facing our oceans. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the event laid the foundation for ongoing conversations, partnerships, and actionable initiatives that will contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 14:Life Below Water.

“Connect with us by visiting the website and on social media @sdgdisruptersummit on Instagram and Facebook to see the photos and media coverage of the event.”

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Category: All, Business, Environment