Column: Talbot-Woolridge On Bermuda’s Youth
[Opinion column written by Shomari Talbot-Woolridge]
The recent op-ed, What About the Youth?, raises important questions about the challenges facing young Bermudians. However, it fails to acknowledge the steps the Progressive Labour Party [PLP] has taken to address those issues while conveniently ignoring the failures of the One Bermuda Alliance [OBA] when they held the reins of government.
There’s no denying that young people in Bermuda are grappling with significant obstacles. The rising cost of living, lack of affordable housing, and limited employment opportunities create barriers to success. For many, dreams of higher education or home ownership feel increasingly out of reach. These are real issues that demand urgent action, and the PLP is delivering them.
The high cost of living remains one of Bermuda’s most pressing issues. Young people often feel the brunt of this, with skyrocketing rents, stagnant wages, and limited affordable options for higher education. These challenges are compounded by the economic pressures of the post-COVID era, which has exacerbated income inequality and job insecurity.
Mental health is another critical area. Young Bermudians are navigating a rapidly changing world, and the pressures of modern life are taking a toll. This is why the government’s focus on mental health—through initiatives like the Youth Mental Health Summit and expanded access to services—is so essential.
Critics who claim the government has ignored the needs of young people overlook the significant strides the PLP has made.
Under the PLP, funding for scholarships has been restored and expanded after being gutted by the OBA. Programs like the National Education Scholarship, the Further Education Award, and the Bermuda College Promise are opening doors for students who might otherwise be left behind. These initiatives ensure that financial barriers don’t dictate a young person’s future.
Recognizing that not all careers require a university degree, the PLP has introduced vocational training programs tailored to Bermuda’s economic needs. Partnerships with local industries are creating pathways to well-paying jobs in technology, renewable energy, and agriculture.
The government is tackling mental health head-on, recognizing its critical role in young people’s lives. Investments in school-based services and community resources are providing much-needed support to those struggling with anxiety, depression, and other challenges.
While the cost of living remains high, the PLP is taking steps to provide relief. From expanding affordable housing initiatives to increasing benefits for HIP and FutureCare participants, these policies are laying the groundwork for a fairer and more affordable Bermuda.
The contrast with the OBA could not be clearer. During their tenure, scholarship funding was slashed, leaving countless students without the means to pursue higher education. The now-famous student sit-in of 2016, where young Bermudians protested at the House of Assembly, highlighted the depth of frustration and disillusionment under the OBA’s leadership. Their demands for better funding and support were met with indifference and inaction.
Additionally, the OBA’s neglect of public education and youth programs led to an erosion of trust among young Bermudians. Promises of “shared sacrifice” resulted in cuts to vital services while failing to address systemic issues like income inequality and job creation.
While it’s easy to critique, solutions require vision and effort. The PLP has consistently demonstrated its commitment to addressing Bermuda’s challenges, particularly those affecting our youth. Could we do more? Of course—there is always room for improvement. But the Opposition’s record of neglect leaves them ill-equipped to lecture on supporting young people.
Instead of recycling tired talking points, the OBA should join the government in developing constructive solutions. Bermuda’s young people deserve more than empty criticism; they deserve action.
The PLP is focused on building a Bermuda that works for everyone, particularly our youth. Whether through expanded scholarships, mental health support, or workforce readiness programs, the government is investing in the next generation. The challenges we face are significant, but together, we can create a future where every young Bermudian has the opportunity to thrive.
The path forward requires collaboration, accountability, and a commitment to bold solutions. The PLP is ready for that challenge. Is the Opposition?
- Shomari Talbot-Woolridge, PLPs candidate for Constituency 9
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So disappointed that you choose to launch into trying to discredit the OBA so early in your ‘game’ . What’s next , to discredit all the independents and FDM as well ? You’ll get tired very quickly and no-one is going to be impressed .
Tell us what you’re going to do (really do , not ‘promise’) and how you’re going to do it .
The common practice in Bermuda is to find fault with others ,it all starts with “YOU GOT …… “.
It is a common practice here to find fault with liberal amonts of complaining and do nothing about it as you play the blame game..
You would do well to look for the positive and not the negative as you appear to search for fault.
It is very easy, to find fault when solutions are not close at hand.
It is very easy, to criticizes others when nothing is done to improve the current un savorably situations as you seek to rub salt in the wounds.
It is so easy to shift blame by up staging the lack of credibility on to others by inventing at least two pages of the short comings
It is so easy too paint you self as having the answers to all , and over and above your fellow associates .
It is so easy by your comments by making Bermuda look bad leaving unsolved solutions.
It is so easy to throw people under the bus by demeaning the efforts of others .
By the way it is a common practice as we are sure that you are well aware on the streets of Bermuda to throw political dirt back in our faces of our people.
Young man, nothing in life comers on a silver platter .