FOURTEEN young Bahamians are now fully certified lifeguards after completing the 2025 National Lifeguard Certification Programme — a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at improving water safety and creating employment opportunities across the country.

The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture hosted the certification ceremony under the theme “The First Wave: Building a Safer Bahamas” at Pelican Bay Resort’s Delphine Room. The programme, launched in 2024 through a partnership between the Ministry, the YMCA Family Centre, and Bahamas Swim and Scuba, is designed to equip participants with life-saving skills and Caribbean-standard aquatic training that can lead to sustainable careers in a growing field.

“This government continues to invest in programmes that build confidence, discipline and opportunities for Bahamians of all ages,” said Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg. “We believe in the power of sports and education not only to entertain or to compete, but to build, to empower, to uplift and transform lives.”

Executive Director of the YMCA Family Centre Karon Pinder-Johnson praised the programme as a model of national collaboration. “This programme is more than a training initiative — it is a national investment in human capacity, youth empowerment and the safeguarding of lives. It shows what is possible when public and private sectors unite with a shared purpose.”

All graduates are now employed in the lifeguard field, fulfilling the programme’s goal of creating direct career pathways for Bahamian youth.

Several participants received special recognition for their outstanding performance:

Rising Star Trainee Award: Laban McIntosh Jr.

Most Improved Lifeguard Award: Stephen Davis

Courage to Begin Award: Malaya Quant

Community Ambassador Award: Jayden Jones

Rescue Readiness Award (Rescue Composure): Kendal Forbes

Leadership & Training Award: Camron Rahming

Officials said the initiative marks the beginning of a broader effort to expand lifeguard training and strengthen national water safety standards across The Bahamas.