Young people tackled topics ranging from the cost of living to antisocial behaviour during Bermuda’s second National Youth Conference.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said that the youngsters had taken the time to touch on the problems that affected them most.

They also discussed ways the Government could fix these problems – ideas, Ms Furbert added, that could be implemented in the future.

She said: “I was truly inspired by the young people who participated. Their willingness to lead, engage and drive change was the heartbeat of this conference.

“To all the participants, I say that your voices are powerful and your actions will shape the future of our community for years to come.”

The youth conference, which happened between July 15 and July 21, was part of the ministry’s pledge to hear the views of young people.

Attendees discussed teaching personal finance, scholarships, job opportunities and mental-health support in schools.

They also tackled systemic racism, bullying and the need for community policing.

Ms Furbert said that the conference had fulfilled a goal in the National Youth Policy aimed at giving young people a voice.

She added that the conference particularly built on her ministry’s aim to establish a platform to give youngsters a say in government policies.

Ms Furbert said the engagement was “essential for nurturing informed and active citizens who are ready to influence and lead our society”.

She added: “The feedback was profound and eye-opening, providing valuable guidance for our future initiatives.”

The minister also outlined several other initiatives to engage and shine a spotlight on young people.

She highlighted the two-day “Big Up Ya’Self” mini-conference, which was aimed at primary and secondary school pupils.

The purpose of the conference was to gather the youngsters’ ideas about the future and offer life skills.

Teen Service’s Outstanding Teen Awards last month also put a spotlight on high-school graduates who displayed incredible talent, dedication and academic skill.

Ms Furbert said: “As we move forward, I want us to carry the spirit of this conference with us.

“We must continue to work together, listen and act, creating a community where every young person feels valued, supported and empowered to make a difference on the issues that affect us daily.”

Théo Wolffe, the chairman of the National Youth Policy Working Group, said that a panel on the last day of the conference had focused on the cost of living, antisocial behaviour and diversity and inclusion.

He said that the conference had worked to show how the National Youth Policy “not only acts as a strategy, but is also a meaningful platform for action”.

Mr Wolffe added: “While this summer’s been sunny and bright, the island and its community have experienced some devastatingly dark moments that we cannot ignore.

“Together – and only together – we can rise above it.

“We have the talent, we have the passion and we have the love to remedy the dark realities that many of us face.

“But we must be relentless in our commitment to action, accountability and above all collaboration if we are serious about reigniting our community.”