BAHAMAS Power and Light (BPL) staff in Abaco gathered last week for a memorial seminar honouring the memory of Hurricane Dorian while focusing on recovery, resilience, and healing.

The event brought together employees, union representatives, and wellness professionals to reflect on the storm’s devastating impact and to support staff who continue to live with its effects, according to a press release from BPL.

BPL chief executive officer Toni Seymour delivered opening remarks, affirming the company’s commitment to the Abaco community and to the well-being of employees. She shared her personal experience of facing Dorian in Grand Bahama, describing the fear and uncertainty that mirrored what many in Abaco endured.

“Some of you were at work, worried about your families at home. Some of you were at home, not knowing if you would survive, not knowing if you would be able to save your family if it came to that,” Ms Seymour said. “These are the types of things that I know you all experienced. And while it’s difficult to relive those memories, there is healing in it as well.”

Human resources director Daphne Simmons and Bahamas Electrical Workers Union president Kyle Wilson also addressed staff, underscoring the importance of compassion and solidarity. “No one is more responsible for the bounce back on this island than each and every one of you in here,” Mr Wilson said. “Because without energy, nothing happens. You stood strong, and despite everything, you answered the call for the people who depended on you.”

The seminar highlighted health and wellness as key aspects of long-term recovery. Zanda Bonamy, director of health, safety, and environment, introduced BPL’s new Health and Wellness Team, which led a session on mental health facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr Wendy Fernander and nurse Nicole Major.

“We saw that many staff still suffered from PTSD or felt afraid during storms because of what they experienced during Hurricane Dorian,” Ms Bonamy said. “With the recent launch of our Health and Wellness Department, we wanted to be here in Abaco at this memorial seminar to let staff know that we are here to support them.”

Employees participated in activities focused on mindfulness, resilience, and coping strategies for post-traumatic stress, before concluding the day with a panel discussion and Q&A session.

BPL chaplain Nelson Strachan also offered words of encouragement, urging staff to draw strength from faith and community.

The company said it remains committed not only to restoring power but also to supporting the mental and emotional well-being of its employees and the wider community.