Noelle Young corrects PIC’s member list; says she is not affiliated with any political party
Fledgling political movement, the People’s Independent Coalition, has ostensibly lost a member less than a day after its launch.
Noelle Young, who stood as an independent election candidate in C14 Devonshire North West, was among the list of twelve members the PIC provided to Bermuda Broadcasting when the coalition was announced on Wednesday.
However, Ms Young has been quick to distance herself from association with any combined political body, while remaining available for collaboration, and supportive of those working towards positive change.
In a press release, Ms Young said, “I would like to clarify that I am NOT a member of the People’s Independent Coalition (PIC), nor am I affiliated with any actual political party at this time.”
“While I respect and support everyone who is working toward a better Bermuda, it is important to correct the record following today’s press release and subsequent news broadcast which mentioned my name.”
Following the February 18th General Election, Ms Young, a sustainability activist, says she has offered advice in meetings with the PLP and independent candidates from the PIC. She says she also remains open to collaboration with the OBA and the FDM.
Ms Young says, “I urge all of Bermuda’s leaders (whether elected, independent, or community advocates) to work together.”
“The challenges we face demand it. Embrace knowledge-sharing, and build bridges, not just between political groups, but between generations and across oceans.”
Noelle Young’s full statement is below…
I would like to clarify that I am NOT a member of the People’s Independent Coalition (PIC), nor am I affiliated with any actual political party at this time. While I respect and support everyone who is working toward a better Bermuda, it is important to correct the record following today’s press release and subsequent news broadcast which mentioned my name.
As a sustainability solutionist, activist, and mother, my work is rooted in diplomacy, advocacy, and collaboration. I am happy to consult with any individual or organization focused on serving the needs of our island and her people.
Post election, I have been privileged to offer information and advice in meetings with Ministers who represent the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) and independent candidates from the Peoples Independent Coalition (PIC). I still remain open to collaboration with the One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) and Free Democratic Movement (FDM), and look forward to engagement with them in future.
I will continue my work in human and environmental rights, with distinct focus on empowering young Bermudians and those who are differently abled. In that pursuit, I truly believe Bermuda can draw inspiration from Japan.
As island nations, Japan and Bermuda have several similarities and share an urgent need for forward thinking strategies. As I stated in recent meetings with representatives of the Government of Bermuda – I believe there is a beautiful parallel that should be explored between the two countries especially in efforts around food security, clean energy, waste management, and cultural preservation.
I had the privilege of being chosen to speak with the Japanese Minister of Environment at COP29 where he invited me to share ideas about how I thought Japan could support Bermuda. I spoke to him about knowledge sharing and my hope for collaboration on the following high value opportunities:
Public Health Improvements
Japan is globally recognized for its high life expectancy, preventative healthcare practices, and incorporating environmental health into the framework of public health legislation. These models can help inform Bermuda’s efforts to create healthier, more sustainable communities, particularly through improved nutrition, wellness infrastructure, and access to clean water.
Cultural Preservation Must Co-Exist with Innovation
Japan is a global example of how tradition and progress can co-exist. As Bermuda modernizes its infrastructure, energy systems, and economy, Japan could offer valuable insights on how to do so while preserving our national identity and cultural heritage, which are especially important within our tourism and education sectors.
Food Security Solutions
Japan’s advancements in vertical farming, controlled-environment agriculture, marine food systems, and sustainable aquaculture could directly support Bermuda in building a more self-reliant and environmentally-resilient food system.
Green/Blue Growth Integration
Japan’s success in combining economic development with environmental sustainability offers Bermuda a roadmap for inclusive and innovation-led growth. Through bilateral cooperation, Bermuda could accelerate its carbon neutrality targets while creating new jobs and future-focused industries.
Renewable Energy Advancement
Japan is a global leader in renewable energy technologies, including solar, offshore wind, hydrogen, and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). Partnering with Japan can support Bermuda’s energy transition by providing access to proven technologies, technical training, and policy guidance tailored to small islands. This is particularly relevant as Bermuda scales its Renewable Energy Sandbox and explores viable solutions beyond intermittent sources like solar and wind.
Sustainable Trade and Electric Vehicles
Japan’s robust economy and technological strength could offer Bermuda an opportunity to build more resilient systems, reducing reliance on volatile imports and fossil fuels, while also opening up access to new investment and trade opportunities.
As Bermuda moves toward the adoption of electric vehicles and reduced emissions from transport, Japan’s leadership in Electric Vehicle manufacturing, battery systems, and smart transport infrastructure presents clear avenues for trade and technological cooperation. Engaging Japan could also present opportunities to access other goods and services.
Collaboration with Japan would serve not only as a strategic partnership, but also as a suitable values-aligned model. An ideal collaborator as Bermudian leaders continue to listen, learn and chart our islands unique path forward.
In closing, I urge all of Bermuda’s leaders (whether elected, independent, or community advocates) to work together. The challenges we face demand it. Embrace knowledge-sharing, and build bridges, not just between political groups, but between generations and across oceans.
