PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday urged young Bahamians to build on the contributions of previous generations as 425 people received national honours for their achievements and service to the country.

Speaking at the morning session of the 2026 National Investiture Awards Ceremony, Mr Davis said the honourees represented a wide cross-section of Bahamian society, including public service, private enterprise, the arts, the professions, religious institutions and community organisations.

More than 200 recipients were awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, while 17 people were honoured posthumously.

Mr Davis said the recipients reflected the importance of recognising Bahamians whose contributions often went unnoticed, particularly those who had devoted decades to serving their communities.

He recalled growing up in Old Bight, Cat Island, where his grandparents taught him that a person's worth should be measured by what they contributed rather than what they accumulated.

The awards were conferred by Governor-General Dame Cynthia Pratt under the country's national honours system, which includes the Order of The Bahamas, Order of Excellence, Order of Distinction, Order of Merit, Distinguished Service Medal and Medal for Acts of Bravery.

Arnold Wilson and Rudolph Moxey received the Medal for Acts of Bravery for putting the lives of others ahead of their own in dangerous circumstances.

Mr Davis said the national honours recognised people who had identified needs in their communities and taken responsibility for addressing them, often without expecting recognition.

He also paid tribute to former Governor-General Sir Milo Butler and Academy Award-winning actor Sir Sidney Poitier, citing their achievements as examples of Bahamians who opened doors for future generations.

Turning his attention to young people, the prime minister urged them to view the achievements of the honourees as a foundation on which to build.

Mr Davis said: “You do not need the perfect idea or the perfect moment. Begin where you are, with what you have.

“Look at your community, your school, your church, your workplace. Ask what needs doing. Then ask what you can do about it.”

He continued: Nation-building is not the work of government alone. It is not reserved for those with titles or positions. It is the work of every Bahamian who sees a chance to contribute and accepts the responsibility that comes with it."

Mr Davis encouraged the next generation to pursue excellence while remaining committed to public service and creating opportunities for others.He congratulated the honourees and their families, saying their achievements reflected the country's values and the importance of service to others.