Urban Renewal Leaders Chart the Way Forward for Better Communities

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GRAND BAHAMA , BAHAMAS – When leaders from across The Bahamas gathered in Grand Bahama for the Urban Renewal Managers Retreat, the focus was on more than training.

It was about strengthening leadership, sharing solutions, and renewing a commitment to the communities they serve.

Our Evlynn Ferguson has the story.

Urban Renewal managers from New Providence and the Family Islands recently converged on Grand Bahama for two days of training, collaboration, and strategic planning.

The retreat focused on leadership development, financial management, human resources, and team-building, equipping managers with the tools they need to better serve their communities.

But beyond the workshops and discussions, the message was clear: Urban Renewal is about people and the difference its teams make in the lives of families every day.

At the opening ceremony, Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey reminded participants that their work puts them directly in touch with the realities facing residents.

Ginger Moxey – Minister for Grand Bahama

“You walk the pavement, unlock the doors, and listen directly to the unvarnished pulse of people every single day. You see the raw realities before they ever become efficient data points. Community development is never a static desk programme, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, or a seasonal exercise in token assistance. It is a continuous, aggressive investment in human potential and long-term dignity.”

For the managers on the ground, that responsibility often means being the first to respond when residents face difficult circumstances.

Throughout the retreat, participants shared experiences, discussed challenges, and explored ways to strengthen the services provided through their centres.

Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell pointed to the important role Urban Renewal plays in his own community.

Fred Mitchell – Minister of Foreign Affairs

“In Fox Hill, we depend on Urban Renewal for so many things. It is the first line of crisis when people call up, whether they have a medical or food crisis, or just can’t get along with one another. That’s the first line of meeting. So you call Sonya, and she’s on it straight away. She and her staff. So I thank them for the job they do, and I thank all of you from Urban Renewal.”

The retreat also provided an opportunity for managers to contribute their ideas and share firsthand knowledge of what is working, and what needs to improve, in the communities they serve.

Minister of Urban Renewal and Community Relations Lisa Rahming encouraged participants to speak up, emphasising that those working directly with residents have valuable insight to help shape the ministry’s direction.

Lisa Rahming – Minister of Urban Renewal and Community Relations

“And so, managers, I really hope that you came ready to participate. Why? Because I am ready to hear from you. We want to hear your ideas. It’s not all about what we think should happen. You’re on the ground more often than us. You tell us what to do. And I want you to leave here today after this conference. I want you to be excited. I want you to feel energised.”