The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s newly-inducted Board of Directors hope their tenure will act as a catalyst for the change that is “desperately needed” on the island.

Speaking at the weekend induction of its 13 directors for the 2012-2013 year, Lisa G. Turnquest, the Chamber’s second vice-president, said: “This event will hopefully stir the process of change which we so desperately need here in Grand Bahama, by demonstrating how the utilisation of individual creativity, mixed with an embracing of unique talents and skills, and the application of hard work, can and will result in ultimate success and enjoyment.”

She added: “I know that I echo sentiments of the other 13 directors on this year’s Board, and our president, when I say we in Grand Bahama can no longer do the same, think the same or be the same because, as John Lilly once said, our only security is our ability to change.”

Barry Malcolm, the Chamber’s newly-elected president, said: “I challenge you all. We must realise that not one stakeholder here has all the answers, and we must be willing to hear and consider other ideas.

“Only if we are willing can we identify and make such necessary choices as to effect the development and sustained economic growth we all desire.”

Mr Malcolm added that he and his directors have been mandated by the members to “consolidate licensee engagement, advise concerns of industry, support small business growth, engage its regulators (Grand Bahama 
Port Authority), engage policymakers and be 
open, constructive and creative”.