The Hamilton Parish Workmen's Club was abuzz with lively discussions and insightful exchanges as the young leaders of various sports/community clubs in Bermuda's Eastern Parishes gathered. The event aimed to shed light on the indispensable roles these clubs play within their respective communities and the broader societal landscape.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Nandi Outerbridge, President of Hamilton Parish Workmen's Club, remarked, "Last night was powerful. Five presidents from the eastern end came together to discuss how we can strengthen ourselves for our community clubs but also for the strength of our communities. I have no doubt in my mind that this is the start of excellence. Collaboration among leaders is essential for community development. Building strong community clubs fosters unity and progress. I look forward to us nurturing this momentum for a brighter future ahead!"
Topics explored during the discussion ranged from club governance and constitutional updates to leveraging member skills for community benefit, addressing social issues, and overcoming stigmas associated with community clubs. The dialogue also underscored the importance of sports in shaping Bermuda's cultural and social fabric.
Stephen Outerbridge, President of Bailey's Bay Cricket Club: "The insightful discussions during the recent gathering highlighted the crucial role of community sports clubs in Bermuda. It’s evident that these clubs are striving to progress in the right direction, but they require unwavering support to flourish in our communities. Last night laid a solid foundation for each club and community to advance together towards a brighter future."
Mishael Paynter, President of St. George's Cricket Club: "Collectively as the Presidents of five Eastern community clubs, we can learn a lot from one another and this sharing of thoughts and information fosters discussions that can help make each club individually and collectively better. Change, although uncomfortable, is necessary as we look to usher in a new era for our clubs and collective communities to grow and develop. Through collaboration we can serve the members of our communities even better and help to build a better future for those that walk through our gates or doors."
Najee Musson, President of Harrington Workmen's Club said, "Last night’s meeting was a great kickoff to what can be a bright and prosperous future for the eastern clubs of Bermuda. With the presidents of each organization taking the time out to voice concerns and answer questions of the members and persons within the eastern community, this shows great promise of what is to come. These efforts should not go unnoticed and should be a shining light to the community of Bermuda that we all need to work together as we face common issues. In some instances, others may have overcome these same issues to whom we can learn from and share ideas as was noticed while each president had spoken.
Ceblé Crockwell, President of St. David's County Cricket Club said, "The union of the club Presidents is a testament of what each of us is trying to accomplish. Within our communities we are working within our clubs to provide safe environments, development opportunities and social events for our members. We support our community Primary School and have joined forces to fight with them to remain open as we are pillars in our community. Joining forces with the other Eastern Club Presidents only strengthens our fight to run our clubs as the businesses that they are. Information sharing and supporting each other is important to maintaining successful clubs. I was honoured to be invited and to be amongst such a progressive group of young people with like-minded goals for the people and youth in the very communities that we were raised in. Last evening’s forum was the start of something great."
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