The Government of Bermuda is pleased to highlight Ms. Shavana Wilson of the Department of National Drug Control as a recipient of the Public Service Excellence Award (PSEA).
Ms. Wilson, who serves within the Prevention Unit, was recognised for her longstanding commitment to drug prevention education and, most recently, for introducing a dedicated “Kid’s Zone” at Bermuda’s Cup Match Classic in Somerset.
Ms. Wilson has worked for decades to provide drug prevention initiatives to the community, with a particular focus on educating children and young people about healthy lifestyles, positive decision-making, resilience and refusal skills relating to drug and alcohol use.
This year, Ms. Wilson put that experience into action by developing the Kid’s Zone as a safe and engaging space for children attending Cup Match. The initiative allowed children to participate in games, art and other activities while receiving age-appropriate drug prevention and healthy lifestyle messaging, providing families with a dedicated space for younger attendees during the event.
Ms. Wilson also worked with community partners to enhance the experience, securing water and refreshments for children from Barritt’s and art activities and supplies from Strokes City Art Studio. Drug prevention information was also made available to parents and other members of the community.
Despite challenging weather conditions, a delayed set-up and a late start on the first day of Cup Match, Ms. Wilson and the Prevention Unit created a colourful, safe and welcoming environment for children. The initiative was well received by families, with parents expressing interest in seeing the Kid’s Zone return as an annual feature of Cup Match.
Premier David Burt, JP, MP, said, “Good public service often starts with identifying a need and finding a practical way to address it. Shavana recognised that many children attending Cup Match could benefit from a space designed with them in mind, and in keeping with the Prevention Unit’s mission, she turned that idea into a reality. The response from families has shown the value of that effort, and I am pleased to see her recognised with this award. Her achievement serves as a reminder of the important role public officers play in strengthening our communities and supporting the people of Bermuda.”
Head of the Public Service, Ms. Cherie Whitter, added, “Ms. Wilson’s longstanding commitment to prevention, education and community engagement is a valuable example of the dedication our public officers bring to their work each day. Her service has helped strengthen the Prevention Unit’s connection with children, families and the wider community, and her willingness to develop new and creative ways of delivering that work demonstrates both initiative and a genuine commitment to the people we serve. I thank Ms. Wilson for the experience, care and value she continues to bring to the Bermuda Public Service.”
Ms. Wilson’s recognition highlights her creativity, perseverance and continued commitment to improving the lives of Bermuda’s children and families. Her work through the Department of National Drug Control’s Prevention Unit demonstrates how innovative public service initiatives can combine education, prevention and community engagement in practical and meaningful ways.
Each month, the Public Service Excellence Awards recognise individuals and teams who consistently demonstrate exceptional service, leadership, innovation and dedication to the community.
