Students of CedarBridge Academy were this week encouraged to pursue careers in the island’s unformed services.

A special assembly at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium marked the first school-based presentation of its kind under the Ministry of National Security’s recruitment campaign, a ministry spokesman said.

The drive is aimed at inspiring residents, especially young Bermudians, to take the challenge and pursue meaningful service to the community.

At the event, uniformed service representatives spoke about their careers, shared personal insights and discussed the training and commitment required to succeed in their roles.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, who attended the assembly, said the campaign was not merely about filling vacancies but also to build a generation of public servants who feel proud of their work.

He said: “We need good people in these roles. People who care. People who want to make a difference.

“This campaign is about reminding our people that service to your country is still one of the most honourable choices you can make.”

Mr Weeks highlighted the importance of clearing pathways for Bermuda’s young people and of encouraging them to join the public service.

He said: “We cannot wait until someone finishes school or returns from college before we talk to them about service. We need to start in the schools.

“These students are at a turning point in life, and this is when they need to hear that a career in the uniformed services is not just a job but a way to grow, lead and give back.”

The minister said that connecting with young people in person was an aspect of a larger goal to promote service value across all age groups.

He added: “If even one student walked out thinking, 'I could see myself doing that,' then we are heading in the right direction. But I also want adults, parents and older Bermudians looking for purpose or a new path to know that opportunities exist for them too.”

Residents were urged to visit gov.bm/uniformedservices for more information.

They were also encouraged to keep checking job advertisements for the organisations because each recruits at different times “and those chances can go quickly”, Mr Weeks said.

The ministry said other outreach events are planned to ensure that young Bermudians are informed, inspired and ready to serve.