Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey praised the continued impact of the Bahamas Youth Leadership Development Programme (BYLD) during its Opening Ceremony held on February 7, 2026 at the Pelican Bay Resort.
Addressing participants, Minister Moxey commended BYLD founder Zhivargo Laing, programme facilitators and the sixteen scholars that participated in the initiative for sustaining the initiative for more than 16 years. She noted that the venture has played a vital role in empowering young Bahamians and preparing them for leadership opportunities.
I don’t just see students or see scholars, I see the architects of our island’s next chapter, I see the thinkers, the builders and the disruptors who will take this island to heights we have only dreamed of before I go any further, I thank the founder Mr. Zhivargo Laing and the BYLD team.”
The Minister highlighted BYLD’s strong focus on equipping senior high school students; particularly those in Grades 11 and 12 with the skills needed to succeed academically, professionally and civically, both in The Bahamas and abroad.
“For years this program has been a forge. It takes raw talent and shapes it into leadership. The Ministry for Grand Bahama supports this programme because we don’t just see the potential in you young people, we see our island’s sustained development in your hands.”
She emphasized that investing in youth leadership development is essential to strengthening the nation’s future and encouraged participants to fully embrace the opportunities presented through the programme.
Minister Moxey also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the personal and professional growth of young people, noting that programmes such as BYLD help shape confident, capable, and responsible citizens.
Founder Zhivargo Laing explained that through BYLD’s monthly seminars, student leaders participate in intensive sessions designed to build critical life and leadership skills. These include public speaking, communication, emotional intelligence, decision-making, problem-solving, strategic planning, money management and teamwork.
Minister Moxey also announced that the Young Innovators Club is scheduled to launch later this month, expanding opportunities for youth engagement and leadership development in Grand Bahama.
The Bahamas Youth Leadership Development Programme continues to serve as a platform for nurturing the next generation of Bahamian leaders by providing mentorship, training and practical leadership experiences.
More Photo Highlights Below:
