Video: Aquarium 100 Campaign Launches
The Government of Bermuda and the Bermuda Zoological Society launched the ‘Aquarium 100 Campaign’ which aims to “build on our strong foundation creating a modern, world-class institution that meets the highest standards in animal care, education and scientific research.”
A spokesperson said, “The Government of Bermuda and the Bermuda Zoological Society [BZS] marked a defining moment in the island’s history, breaking ground on the next chapter of the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo [BAMZ]. The ceremony marks the public launch of The Aquarium 100 Campaign honouring 100 years of BAMZ and 50 years of BZS, while laying the foundation for the next century of environmental education and stewardship.
“The Aquarium 100 Campaign represents a landmark public-private collaboration, bringing together the Government of Bermuda, the Bermuda Zoological Society and a growing community of private supporters to build on BAMZ’s 100-year legacy as a world-class campus for conservation and learning.
“The Government of Bermuda has played a critical leadership role in enabling this vision, demonstrating its commitment to national infrastructure, environmental stewardship and the long-term wellbeing of Bermuda’s people and natural ecosystems.”
Minister of Public Works and Environment Jache Adams said, “This groundbreaking marks the start of a planned and necessary investment in BAMZ to ensure it continues to serve the public as a place for education, conservation and community use. It reflects a practical commitment to maintaining and improving this facility so it remains relevant, accessible and beneficial to Bermuda for the long term.”
The spokesperson said, “The Aquarium 100 Campaign exemplifies what is possible when government, community and private supporters unite around a shared purpose. It is a model of public-private partnership designed to deliver lasting benefits for generations of Bermudians.
“At the core of The Aquarium 100 Campaign is a commitment to Bermuda’s students. The Campaign’s investments will expand access to immersive, hands-on environmental education, connecting young people directly to Bermuda’s ecosystems, conservation science and pathways to careers in the natural sciences.
“The transformed BAMZ campus will expand our BZS Living Classroom, where students of every age can engage with the natural world in ways that inspire curiosity, foster responsibility and build the next generation of Bermudian conservationists.”
BZS President Philippe Bacon said: “It is a privilege to serve as President of BZS at this remarkable moment for our organisations. My connection to BZS began with a strong belief in what this institution represents for Bermuda education, conservation and community, and that belief has only deepened through my involvement in the Aquarium 100 Campaign.
“At its heart, this Campaign is about the students and families who walk through these doors. This is our Living Classroom, inspiring curiosity, nurturing a love of the natural world and connecting young Bermudians to the environment that defines our island home. By expanding access and modernising our facility and programmes, we are ensuring that future generations have new opportunities to learn, discover and be transformed by this place. That is what drives our commitment, and that is what makes this Campaign so meaningful.”
The spokesperson said, “The Campaign’s three core priorities reflect this mission:
- Education & Conservation Infrastructure: New Aquarium and Zoo exhibits; modernised facilities, classrooms and infrastructure; and state-of-the-art exhibitry and teaching technology.
- Education & Conservation Programmes: Expanding educational programmes, research initiatives and conservation work; deepening community engagement; and advancing opportunities for students and staff.
- Endowment: Building a strong endowment to provide a lasting financial foundation, with annual earnings directed to support core priorities in perpetuity.
“Guided by the BAMZ Master Plan, the redevelopment envisions a modernised campus experience across the Aquarium, Museum and Zoo that is designed to honour the heritage of this 100-year institution while meeting the needs of a new era.
“The transformed campus will be accessible, inclusive and engaging for residents and visitors alike, creating a welcoming destination that reflects Bermuda’s unique natural and cultural identity. Every element has been shaped by a commitment to preserving what makes BAMZ beloved, while expanding what can be offered.”
Dr. Ian Walker, Principal Curator, BAMZ said: “The Aquarium 100 Campaign represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine this campus for the next 100 years. Our vision is to build on our strong foundation creating a modern, world-class institution that meets the highest standards in animal care, education and scientific research, and truly reflects Bermuda’s standing as a leader in conservation and environmental stewardship.
“What makes this effort so powerful is the shared purpose behind it as a community endeavour. The support we have received from donors, partners and the wider public speaks to how deeply people care about the future of BAMZ. Together, we are building something that will serve Bermuda for generations to come, and that sense of collective responsibility is at the heart of everything we are working toward.”
The spokesperson said, “The groundbreaking of BAMZ’s next chapter is a moment that belongs to all of Bermuda. It is a testament to what this community can achieve when it chooses to invest in its natural heritage, its young people and its future.
“The Bermuda Zoological Society and the Government of Bermuda invite every resident and visitor to be part of this historic effort — as supporters, as advocates and as stewards of the remarkable island we share.
“The community is invited to celebrate the launch of the centenary with a special Community Open House at BAMZ on Saturday, June 20. The event will feature live performances, animal encounters, giveaways and plenty of family fun to be a part of the vision for the next 100 years of BAMZ.
“To learn more about the Aquarium 100 Campaign, visit www.bzs.bm.”
Read More About
Category: All, Environment, News, Videos
