Column: Kim Swan On Employment & More
[Opinion column written by Kim Swan]
A strong future for Bermuda is built on the strength of our people. That’s the foundation of the PLP Government’s approach to economic development, ensuring that the benefits of growth reach not just the top, but every hardworking Bermudian trying to build a stable and meaningful life.
Whether it’s providing support for entrepreneurs, expanding job opportunities for young people, or improving fairness for workers, our Government initiatives reflect a simple belief: when Bermudians thrive, Bermuda thrives.
Let’s begin with entrepreneurship. This year, the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, through its Micro Loan and Guarantee Programme, has provided $687,000 in funding to local enterprises, helping numerous Bermudian entrepreneurs get the support they need to grow.
When we support local businesses, we keep money circulating within our economy, create local jobs, and open doors for innovation. From salons and restaurants to tech services and creative ventures, these small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities and the BEDC is ensuring they don’t just survive, but thrive.
Equally important is the Government’s investment in young people through the National Youth Employment Strategy, which continues to connect Bermudians aged 18–26 with real employment and training opportunities. One standout initiative, the Learning Through Experience hospitality programme, resulted in most participants receiving full-time job offers.
In addition, Phase 1 of the Government’s Apprenticeship Programme placed 12 young Bermudians in trades such as carpentry, masonry, and plumbing, offering both income and a pathway to skilled, long-term careers.
It is no coincidence that Youth Unemployment fell to only 2.4% last year.
The PLP has also continued to prioritise economic fairness by implementing Bermuda’s minimum wage, which increased on September 1st. Before the PLP took office, exploitative employers could pay ridiculously low wages, and while more needs to be done, this was a huge step forward.
Whether it’s young people entering the workforce, parents launching small businesses, or workers fighting for a fair wage, our vision is people-centred, not profit-driven. It is focused on ensuring that growth doesn’t leave Bermudians behind.
Yes, challenges remain from global inflation to supply chain disruptions, but the path forward is clear: build a modern Bermudian economy on the talents, dreams, and resilience of our people.
Every dollar invested in a local business, every young person given a career opportunity, every wage lifted it all adds up. It all strengthens our country from the ground up.
We don’t just want a growing economy. We want an economy that grows with us, one that lifts Bermudians, values Bermudian talent, and puts Bermudians first.
- Jr Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Kim Swan
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