As the island prepares for Bermuda Day celebrations, one local entrepreneur is hoping to turn island pride into something people can wear and carry with them even after the parade.

Bermuda Patches, founded by Chalyce Zuill, has introduced its Bermuda Patch T-shirt, a design that brings together some of the island’s most recognisable symbols, from the Bermuda crest and tree frog to the Gombey, cahow and lighthouse.

For Ms Zuill, each symbol in the collection reflects a piece of Bermuda’s identity and the stories behind it.

One of the symbols she felt could not be left out was the Gombey.

“It represents the strength of the people — how they couldn’t be broken despite the abuse of slavery,” Ms Zuill said. “We found a way to push forward. I call the Gombeys our freedom dancers.”

Another source of inspiration was Bermuda’s motto, Quo Fata Ferunt — “Whither the Fates Carry Us”.

Ms Zuill said the phrase points to a spirit of faith and resilience that helped shape the island.

“We place our trust in fate despite the fear of the unknown,” she said. “When people first crashed into the island and didn’t stop at St George’s, they took time, discovered what was here and kept going. That spirit of endurance is part of our story.”

The idea for Bermuda Patches grew from a personal experience after a relative living overseas returned home looking for authentic Bermuda gifts to take back abroad. Feeling that many of the available options did not fully capture the spirit of the island, Ms Zuill decided to create something herself.

The brand began with faith-based iron-on patches before expanding into hats, jackets, scarves and shirts.

“I originally started with patches with faith,” she said. “It has definitely grown into a lifestyle brand, shaped by my passion for retail and fashion while staying connected to our culture.”

The response from customers, she added, has driven home the idea that the products resonate with both residents and visitors.

“I truly love the response from our locals,” Ms Zuill said. “They tell us it captures Bermuda. Clients I transported also shared that the shirts excite them and reflect everything they’ve seen and experienced, so they can take that story back with them.”

The Bermuda Patch T-shirt is available through Brown & Co and arrives in time for Bermuda Day festivities.