In a landmark achievement for water safety and youth employment, fourteen young Bahamians have successfully completed the 2025 National Lifeguard Certification Programme, becoming fully certified lifeguards. This pioneering initiative, the first of its kind in the country, was designed to enhance water safety while creating sustainable career opportunities for Bahamian youth. The certification ceremony, themed “The First Wave: Building a Safer Bahamas,” was hosted by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture at Pelican Bay Resort’s Delphine Room. Launched in 2024 through a collaboration between the Ministry, the YMCA Family Centre, and Bahamas Swim and Scuba, the programme equips participants with life-saving skills and Caribbean-standard aquatic training. Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg emphasized the government’s commitment to investing in programmes that foster confidence, discipline, and opportunities for Bahamians of all ages. He highlighted the transformative power of sports and education in empowering and uplifting lives. Karon Pinder-Johnson, Executive Director of the YMCA Family Centre, lauded the initiative as a model of national collaboration, describing it as a strategic investment in human capacity, youth empowerment, and life preservation. All graduates have secured employment in the lifeguard field, fulfilling the programme’s objective of creating direct career pathways. The ceremony also recognized exceptional participants with awards such as the Rising Star Trainee Award, Most Improved Lifeguard Award, and Leadership & Training Award. Officials announced that this initiative is the first step in a broader effort to expand lifeguard training and strengthen national water safety standards across The Bahamas.
Fourteen young Bahamians graduate the government’s 2025 National Lifeguard Certification Programme
