Bermuda’s leaders of tomorrow signed off from their Youth Parliament duties yesterday afternoon with a resounding thumping of desks and high praise for a job well done.

Since Parliament’s younger brother first sat in the second week of September last year, more than 40 senior school students from seven schools have taken a place in the House of Assembly.

The pupils have debated a range of topics, from mental healthcare to gay marriage, and members have travelled to London to represent the country at the Commonwealth Observance Day.

Namrata Bisht, the Youth Premier, hailed a session in which “tremendous progress has been made to a greater understanding of how Bermuda is run”. She added: “There are areas for improvement, increasing the Youth Parliament’s outreach so more people participate, and motivating people to remain in the Parliament.

“I would like to see more global topics being addressed increasing our awareness of global events.”

Youth Opposition Leader, Destinee Taylor, also urged her team to speak to other young people about the benefits of the Youth Parliament.

“This is an awesome avenue to increase your debating skills and confidence level as well as network with politicians and other noble people in our community,” Ms Taylor said.

During yesterday’s closing ceremony, members of the Youth Parliament were presented with certificates for their commitment to their work. Awards were also presented to Taj Donville-Outerbridge for being the most amicable member, Ms Taylor for being the member most likely to become a politician, Zach Myers for being the best novice debater, and Kimika Jackson for leadership.

Ms Bisht was presented with the award for most outstanding debater as well as the Miranda Lister award.

Senior advisor, Owen Darrell, praised the students for their commitment to the Youth Parliament, as well as their hard work.

Meanwhile, former Premier Dame Jennifer Smith added: “It has been a pleasure during these last few months to begin to get to know some of you.

“I am very excited about what I have seen so far. I am looking forward to following your careers.”