23-year-old man arrested in connection to murder investigation, Health Ministry reports uptick in COVID-19 cases, Premier David Burt attends CARICOM conference in Jamaica plus the latest in sports news
Health officials issue alert on rising COVID-19 cases
Health Minister Kim Wilson said members of the public should take sensible precautions
Coronavirus. Photo: Centre for Disease Control
Full press release from the Government of Bermuda:
The Ministry of Health is alerting the public to a recent increase in COVID-19 cases identified through routine surveillance.
“This uptick serves as a reminder that the virus continues to circulate in our community. COVID-19 has not gone away, and we are seeing a noticeable rise in cases”, explained Minister of Health, Kim Wilson. “We are reminding the public to take sensible precautions, particularly to protect our seniors and those with underlying health conditions. Let’s continue to look out for one another.”
The Ministry is encouraging the public to:
- Stay home if you are feeling unwell: Anyone experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms should avoid public settings and contact with others.
- To help protect those at greater risk, such as older adults, people with chronic conditions, or individuals with weakened immune systems, wearing a mask in crowded indoor places or when visiting loved ones can provide an added layer of care and consideration.
- Practice regular handwashing and cover your coughs and sneezes: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Always cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
- Stay current with your COVID-19 vaccinations, including booster doses if eligible: The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, designed to target the JN.1 variant is available by appointment at the Hamilton Health Centre (278-6460) or through your healthcare provider.
- Test, isolate, and inform others: Antigen tests are available for purchase at pharmacies. Testing is available through your healthcare provider for those who need confirmation or documentation. If you test positive, stay home, follow current isolation guidance, and inform your close contacts.
For more information, visit www.gov.bm/health-information.
OUTBermuda pride parade shines in victoria park
OUTBermuda held its annual Pride Parade yesterday at Victoria Park, filling the city with vibrant colour, music, and celebration.
Crowds gathered to enjoy the festivities, which included powerful community moments and a standout performance by international music star Crystal Waters.
Executive Director Joshua Samuels encouraged all to embrace the spirit of pride, unity, and visibility.
Waters dazzles crowd at Bermuda Pride celebrations in Victoria Park
Veteran house recording artist Crystal Waters headlined the festivities at Victoria Park on Saturday
Crystal Waters performs at Bermuda Pride celebrations on Saturday at Victoria Park. Photo: Jasmine Patterson
Crystal Waters drew a large crowd to the stage at Victoria Park on Saturday as part of Bermuda Pride week celebrations, hosted by OUTBermuda.
The singer/songwriter and recording artist performed a medley of her greatest hits from the 1990s including dance hits, “100% Pure Love” and “Gypsy Woman.”
Other performances in support of Bermuda Pride came from Bermudians artists Hana Bushara, DJ Korie Minors, Chrissy Dior, Aalai and dance crew, Rated E.
Drag performer Ariel also entertained the audience with a rendition of Lady Gaga’s “Born this Way.”
Joshua Samuels, OUTBermuda’s Executive Director made a plea for the community to embrace education on queer issues and matters that impact the LGBTQ+ community in Bermuda and for increased visibility to foster inclusion.
Mr. Samuels made a rallying call before the Pride Parade for young persons struggling with mental health and their sexuality to seek help and support from the charity which envisions, ‘a Bermuda in which LGBTQ+ Bermudians and residents are free from the harmful impacts of discrimination and stigmatization.’
The attendees later marched through the City of Hamilton returning to Victoria Park late afternoon.
More details in subsequent reports.
Opinion: A salute to two Bermudians constructing a strong legacy
They played key roles in bringing to fruition units at Harmony Hall that provide housing for 12 Bermudian families
Blake Lambert, left, with Dimitrius Richardson Photo supplied
Statement by Christopher Famous, Chairman of the Bermuda Housing Corporation
Often, far too often we are told or fed negative stories about Bermudian men. Today, let us change that narrative.
Part of the mandate of Bermuda Housing Corporation (BHC) is to give opportunities to Bermudian skilled craftsmen. In doing so, it is not simply providing a job but more so allowing them to create homes that will last a lifetime or more.
In essence, a way for them to leave their legacy.
Blake Lambert, in the white shirt, is one such individual who has dedicated his life to designing projects around Bermuda, managing the job from start to finish and handing them over for hundreds of Bermudians to call a place home.
Without a doubt, one of his greatest projects has been helping to mentor the young man in the blue shirt, Mr. Dimitrius Richardson, a student of architecture, who has had a passion for design for most of his life.
Together these two brought to fruition 12 units at Harmony Hall which provide housing for 12 Bermudian families.
skilled management brought the project in under budget.
So, for those who say Bermudians cannot do it. These two have proven that is not true. If or when you see them along the way, please tell them thanks for all that they do for Bermuda.
Respice Finem.
Bermuda athletes awarded $154,500 in government grants
Acting Minister of Transport and Tourism, Culture and Sport, Diallo Rabain presented the awards to 25 elite athletes
25 of Bermuda’s elite athletes from across 15 different sports, Cabinet Office. Photo: Government of Bermuda
Full press release from the Government of Bermuda:
On 3 July, the Department of Sport and Recreation held the 2025 Elite Athlete Sponsorship Presentation at the Cabinet Office, where Minister Diallo Rabain, acting Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, presented cheques to some of Bermuda’s most outstanding athletes.
The event celebrated the achievements and dedication of 25 elite athletes across 15 different sports, who were awarded a combined total of $154,500 to support their training and international competition efforts.
The funding is provided through the Government’s Elite Athlete Sponsorship Programme, which is aligned with the Bermuda National Sports Policy.
This initiative supports Goal 2.1 of the policy: to increase Government funding for high performance athletes and teams by 30 per cent.
The programme ensures that top-performing athletes are given the financial support they need to excel on the world stage, reflecting the Government’s ongoing commitment to sporting excellence.
Among the recipients were swimmers Emma Harvey, Jack Harvey and Elijah Daley; cyclist Kaden Hopkins; para-athlete Jessica Lewis; and boccia athlete Yushae DeSilva-Andrade, who received the highest individual award of $12,000.
The Elite Athlete Sponsorship Initiative is an essential part of Bermuda’s broader effort to strengthen its international sporting presence while inspiring young athletes across the island.
Neville Grant Announced as CEO of the Bermuda Bankers Association
Update via press release:
Neville Grant will be the new chief executive of the Bermuda Bankers Association (BBA) appointed July 1.
Mr. Grant will succeed Geoff Scott who will be stepping down on July 31st after 2 and half years in the role.
Neville has more than a 30-year business career, which includes a number of senior roles with HSBC
both locally and internationally, being the former General Manager of Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and, most recently, being the former CEO of Bermuda Commercial Bank.
Neville also currently sits on several boards and committees including Fortitude Re and the Centennial Bermuda Foundation – Economic Participation Committee.
Mr. Grant said: “The BBA plays a pivotal role in outlining the full range of benefits provided by the banking sector in Bermuda. In addition, the BBA will also continue to create community awareness on key financial matters, relating to banking, along with training and development for all stakeholders.”
“As we continue to see ongoing changes in the regulatory and legislative environment along with increased innovation in financial services, it remains critical that the BBA effectively manages these changes for the benefit of all Bermudians and the banking industry in general. I look forward to carrying on the BBA’s mission to maintain resilient local banks.”
Ian Truran BBA chairman, said: “Neville succeeds Geoff Scott who has strengthened the Association and supported the banking sector in Bermuda over the last couple of years.” “We would like to thank Geoff for his contributions and wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
“We would also like to extend a warm welcome to Neville and look forward to seeing the BBA continue to develop and grow, especially given Neville’s specific experience as a past BBA Chairman and BBA ExCo colleague.”
– ENDS –
About the Bermuda Bankers Association
Bermuda Hospitals Board launches strategic plan public survey
The BHB is seeking public feedback for their Vision 2030 Strategic Plan
King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, Paget. Photo: Bermuda Broadcasting Company
Full press release from the Bermuda Hospitals Board:
Bermuda Hospitals Board is creating a new Vision 2030 Strategic Plan and is asking the community to provide their thoughts and feedback in a short, online survey.
The survey can be accessed at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BHB2030. The deadline is 31 August 2025.
CEO & President Scott Pearman comments: “We’re asking you to take a few minutes to complete a short, anonymous survey. Your feedback will help us better understand what matters most to the people we serve and how we can improve the way we deliver care over the next few years.
“This feedback will be used along with internal surveys and groups, reviews of data and of our existing strategy. We know there are challenges, but we are excited about what the future could bring and look forward to sharing more as the strategy is developed.”
Mr. Pearman added, “There is an opportunity for members of the community to also volunteer to be part of in-person focus groups. Anyone interested can email OD@bhb.bm with their full name, and the email or phone number that they would like to be contacted with.
“However you’d like to participate, thank you for helping us build a better future for healthcare in Bermuda!”
Insurance firm spreads the welcome mat for interns
Mosaic, which is headquartered in Bermuda, marks the fifth year of its summer internship scheme
Mosaic 2025 summer interns, from left: Sharuf Hossain, Jessica Bruton (Bermudian), Ellie Weber and Olivia Washington (Bermudian)
Press release:
Mosaic Insurance has welcomed four university students to its offices in Bermuda, London, New York, and Chicago, as the specialty insurer marks the fifth year of its summer internship program.
Some 17 students have participated to date in the program, which was launched in 2021, a few months after Mosaic opened for business. The latest cohort includes Olivia Washington, Jessica Bruton, Ellie Weber, and Muhammad Sharuf Hossain, who have dived into respective summer roles supporting Mosaic’s communications & marketing and cyber units, the latter its fastest-growing line of business.
“We are excited to welcome our 2025 summer interns as part of our ongoing commitment to investing in the future workforce of Mosaic,” said Haviland Dunne, VP, Global HR Partner at Mosaic. “They have been integrated into our global teams and are working on impactful projects, gaining hands-on experience that will help shape their professional growth. Our interns bring new perspectives to our teams, and we aim to provide them with meaningful opportunities to grow and add value to our business.”
Washington, a recent graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, completed her Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in Professional Communications. At Mosaic’s corporate headquarters in Bermuda, she’s a Communications & Strategy Intern, supporting units across the company by developing underwriting collateral, press releases, social campaigns, videos, web content, and digital marketing projects.
“It’s great working with experienced talent located around the world and learning about Mosaic’s unique model, its focus on smart risk selection, and its intentional partnerships,” said Washington. “Constantly learning and adapting to different teams’ priorities is giving me a solid foundational knowledge of the industry.”
Bruton joined Mosaic London as a Cyber Underwriting Intern after recently completing her second year at Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, studying Global Development with a minor in Geography. Returning to Mosaic for a second year, she’s working closely with underwriters, supporting processes, carrying out data analytics, and managing a broker-engagement project.
Weber is a Finance student at Providence College, RI, who recently completed a semester abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, where she focused on business planning for entrepreneurs and start-ups. At Mosaic New York, she’s a Cyber Underwriting Intern, assisting the team with daily operations, including account analysis, organization and documentation. She also contributes to larger projects focused on team efficiency and marketing initiatives.
Hossain holds an MBA and BBA in Banking & Insurance from the University of Chittagong, Bangladesh, and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Data Science at Loyola University Chicago, IL. As a Data Science intern at Mosaic Chicago, Hossain’s technical knowledge supports Mosaic’s Cyber Team by developing and analyzing cyber-risk datasets, assisting predictive model development, and contributing to underwriting tool enhancements. He also works with Mosaic’s Data & Analytics Team, identifying and supporting the building of AI models for risk selection and data visualization.
“I am honored to join Mosaic as an intern this summer and contribute to its cutting-edge reputation in cyber-risk underwriting,” said Hossain. “This opportunity allows me to apply my academic training in data science to real-world challenges and enhance my career through hands-on experience. I look forward to learning from industry leaders and supporting the development of impactful, data-driven solutions.”
About Mosaic
Mosaic is a global specialty insurance agency with exceptional expertise, a focus on complex products, and a distinctive operating model. Our innovative structure allows deployment of different forms of capital in full alignment for the benefit of clients and partners. We currently underwrite for close to 30 other top-rated insurers alongside our own Lloyd’s Syndicate 1609—offering lead-line + syndicated capacity, custom service, and full claims-settlement authority across seven product lines in seven countries. We harness the heritage of Lloyd’s and benefit from the market’s global licenses and financial-strength ratings. Visit mosaicinsurance.com and follow us at @Mosaic1609..
Premier attends town hall on Public Service Leadership
The town hall was held to address budget priorities such as tax relief measures and new Corporate Income Tax are all expected to benefit the public, says government
Premier and Finance Minister David Burt attends Public Service Leadership session. Photo: Bermuda Government
Full press release from the Government of Bermuda:
Recently, the Premier and Minister of Finance, the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, engaged with members of public service leadership to reaffirm Government’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and accountability.
The activity, which was facilitated in a town hall style format, took place following the passage of the 2025–2026 Budget.
And the meeting served as a critical touchpoint to reengage leadership around Government’s fiscal priorities, providing a forum for open dialogue and cross-sector collaboration.
The Public Service leadership, which included Permanent Secretaries and Directors, discussed the concrete steps necessary to ensure the budget’s effective execution, alignment with strategic goals, and measurable outcomes.
“This town hall was about more than reiterating numbers. It was about reinforcing our shared responsibility to deliver real results for the people of Bermuda,” said the Premier.
“Through collaboration and accountability, we are laying the foundation for a fairer, more stable, and more affordable Bermuda. These efforts are designed to create tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens, from better services and smarter spending, to a more responsive and people-focused public sector.”
The session was a platform to discuss how budget priorities such as tax relief measures, the newly implemented Corporate Income Tax and, investments in infrastructure and healthcare are all expected to directly benefit the public.
As Bermuda navigates a rapidly changing global environment, the Government remains committed to leading with integrity, holding itself accountable to its citizens, and preparing the island to meet both current and future challenges with confidence and resilience.
Media personality launches new platform
Luxury Rebellion was created by former journalist Mikaela Ian Pearman
Mikaela Ian Pearman: “Luxury Rebellion isn’t about chasing the soft life. It’s about claiming your life, rich in ritual, rooted in rhythm and fully on your terms.”
Press release:
Luxury Rebellion, the unapologetic lifestyle platform created by award-winning media personality and content curator Mikaela Ian Pearman, has officially launched as a global editorial destination for bold, indulgent living and will mark the moment with its first signature storytelling workshop, Magnetic Content Live, on July 12.
What began as a personal vision has grown into a richly curated digital experience featuring contributors from Bermuda, the United States, Asia and beyond, all centered on women who live audaciously, indulge freely, and glow without asking permission. With core pillars rooted in food, travel, culture, and rebellion, Luxury Rebellion invites women into a life of presence, polish, and unapologetic pleasure.
Ms Pearman who recently secured brand partnerships for Carnival In Bermuda, BermudAir and Gosling’s Bermuda and moderated a powerful panel on shaping the future of content creation at the Black Travel Expo in Atlanta, She’s creating space for transformation.
She says: “I didn’t build this platform to just look pretty or showcase my life. I built it to help bold women create, tell and own their stories. This platform has lived in my heart for years, a digital space where bold women can live unapologetically, with presence, pleasure and island-girl audacity.
“Going back to my journalism roots to create something this intentional and editorial feels like coming home. Luxury Rebellion isn’t about chasing the soft life. It’s about claiming your life, rich in ritual, rooted in rhythm and fully on your terms.”
Luxury Rebellion merges refined storytelling with grounded lifestyle. From slow travel and bold culture to daily rituals and indulgent food, it reflects the rhythm of women who lead with elegance and live without permission. It also features Bermuda through Ms Pearman’s elevated lens, revealing the island she loves through taste, texture, and personal presence.
To celebrate the launch, Pearman will host Magnetic Content Live, a 60-minute live workshop for new and emerging content creators who want to turn their real life into magnetic content through storytelling.
The session will teach Pearman’s signature four-part editorial structure, the same method she’s used to turn moments into brand partnerships, audience loyalty, and paid opportunities along with a downloadable Storytelling Starter Kit filled with prompts, tone tools, and caption guidance.
Ms Pearman added: “This workshop isn’t about tips and tricks, It’s about learning to see your life as a story worth telling. I’ll be teaching the exact method I use to turn everyday moments into magnetic content that connects, converts, and gets me paid, all without performing. Just by showing up as me.”
The workshop takes place Saturday, July 12 at 11am AST. Early bird tickets are $88 until Sunday, July 6 and increase to $111 after. Participants will get access to both the live session and replay access. Following the live workshop, she will open presale for her new premium course, Magnetic by Design, an in-depth experience for content creators ready to build a standout brand through strategy, story, and presence. The workshop offers a first look at the method behind her most magnetic content and just scratches the surface of what’s possible.
Luxury Rebellion also recently relaunched its podcast with new weekly episodes hosted by Ms Pearman, exploring bold decisions, legacy and the daily rebellion of living well without apology.
To register for the workshop, click here: https://mikaela-ian.simplero.com/magnetic
To explore the platform or listen to the podcast, www.theluxuryrebellion.com
About
Mikaela Ian Pearman is a Bermuda-based media voice, lifestyle expert and former journalist with nearly 20 years of experience in storytelling, culture-forward content, and brand strategy. Known for her island-rooted polish, media-savvy presence, and sharp editorial lens, she leads Luxury Rebellion as a legacy project redefining how bold women live, glow, and indulge.
Bermuda Monetary Authority win design awards for new banknotes
The BMA earned numerous international accolades for their design and innovation strategies, according to the regulator
Bermuda’s new two and five-dollar banknotes. Photo: Bermuda Monetary Authority
The full press release from the BMA:
Today the BMA announced it has received multiple international recognitions by earning the prestigious LEED® certification in green building design for BMA House, as well as two separate international awards for the design and innovative security features of Bermuda’s new two- and five-dollar banknotes. In addition to these accolades, both the LEED certification and the new polymer banknote initiative are milestone accomplishments in the BMA’s sustainability strategy.
LEED, or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a globally recognised symbol of excellence in green building. The LEED certification signifies that BMA House is operated and maintained to the highest level of sustainability —ensuring electricity cost savings, lower carbon emissions and healthier indoor environments. BMA House at 43 Victoria Street in Hamilton is now one of only a small handful of buildings in Bermuda that have secured the LEED certification.
The new five-dollar banknote was awarded the International Bank Note Society’s (IBNS) Bank Note of the Year for 2024 in recognition of its artistic merit and innovative security features, while the two- and five-dollar banknotes were together recognised with the High Security Printing Latin America Award for Best New Banknote for 2025, also in recognition of their security features.
“As a progressive financial services regulator, the BMA aims to excel and continuously improve in all that we do. We are honoured to receive these international recognitions for excellence in green building design and the outstanding design of the two- and five-dollar banknotes,” explained Craig Swan, the Authority’s CEO. “The BMA also places a high priority on helping to create a more sustainable future where everyone can thrive. We are proud to be able to provide our employees with a greener, healthier workplace and our community with more durable, environmentally sustainable banknotes.”
An international symbol of excellence, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. The BMA achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in several targeted areas, including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. The upgrades for BMA House began in 2023 with a vision to improve the environmental and human health impacts of the building and help make the world a more sustainable, healthier place. There are nearly 197,166 registered and certified LEED projects worldwide in 186 countries and territories.
“LEED is a transformative tool that ensures a building is designed and operated to achieve high performance, improve human health and protect the environment,” said Peter Templeton, president and CEO, USGBC. “By prioritising sustainability, the BMA project is leading the way in Bermuda and helping USGBC continue towards our goal of green buildings for everyone within this generation.”
More on the two- and five-dollar banknotes and their awards
Issued in October 2024, the BMA’s five-dollar banknote was identified as a favourite from the onset of voting by International Bank Note Society’s (IBNS) members. The five-dollar banknote beat out more than 21 nominated banknotes from a pool of more than 100 issued worldwide to receive the International Bank Note Society’s ‘Bank Note of the Year’ for 2024 based on artistic merit and innovative security features. The innovative security features of both the two- and five-dollar banknotes were also cited as the leading factor for the High Security Printing Latin America Award for Best New Banknote for 2025.
The award-winning banknotes are printed by De La Rue on polymer substrate. This material increases the lifespan of the banknotes to two and a half times longer than the previous cotton notes due to increased durability and resistance to dirt and moisture, making them a more environmentally sustainable option. Both banknotes also feature tactile dots to increase accessibility for those with vision impairment.
Notable security features on both banknotes include: a highly reflective, mirror-like tuna printed on the front of the notes with a shadow of the fish visible on the back of the banknotes; a coloured tuna printed inside the substrate that becomes clearer when the note is held up to the light; a clear window that is fully and partially transparent that depicts a cloudy sky and an underwater scene, viewable from both sides; the abbreviation ‘BMA’ printed on the front and a hibiscus flower printed on the reverse, both of which become see-through when the note is held up to the light; a shimmering gold ink wave design with multiple fish and a sun, when the notes are tilted, other hidden elements that appear in two colours when the banknotes are illuminated with UV light; and a unique serial number, along with a printed ‘security thread’ with BMA microtext.
