Alexa Lightbourne, the Minister of Home Affairs, discussed the importance of preparing for retirement during a women’s conference last week.

Ms Lightbourne delivered a keynote speech at the Gathering Midlife Revolution women’s conference at Willowbank Resort.

A spokeswoman said the conference, hosted by Elaine Butterfield on October 17 and 18, “served as a unifying space to reflect on life’s transitions and the importance of being ready in the face of economic and social change”.

Ms Lightbourne’s speech, Retiring in Paradise: Bermuda’s Economic Trajectory and What It Means for Women, addressed her own transition into public life and how women can protect their legacies and retire with dignity — ways to do this include updating wills, reviewing financial habits and exploring healthcare benefits.

The spokeswoman added: “This empowering message was grounded in action.

“Ms Lightbourne outlined key 2025 budget initiatives designed to protect Bermuda’s seniors and strengthen economic security for women.”

These policies include reforming the Contributory Pension Fund, launching Bermuda’s first senior daycare facility and expanding home-based care benefits under FutureCare and HIP.

Ms Lightbourne said: “These policies are promises to women who have poured their lives into building this island.”

She told attendees: “You should not have to choose between love and land, between age and agency. You have earned security, not scarcity.”