After a brief hiatus, the Barbados Association of Bermuda is back and ready to reconnect, engage and celebrate the strong social, cultural and diplomatic ties between the two countries.

The BAB last month held a successful relaunch meeting that included the election of a new executive board.

According to newly elected president Hashim Estwick, the relaunch is more than just the revival of an organisation, it is the “reawakening” of shared community spirit, heritage and pride.

He added that Bajans in Bermuda have contributed immensely to the island’s social and cultural fabric and that, by bringing the community back together, the association will progress through unity, engagement and collaboration.

The re-emergence of the association also set the stage for upcoming milestones, including a celebration to mark Barbados’s 60th year of independence this November.

The group is finalising its upcoming calendar of events, which will include cultural showcases and community outreach events.

In addition to Mr Estwick, the executive board members are Adrian Stanton, the vice-president; Shennell Challenor, the secretary; Aziza Lovell, the treasurer; Lisa Eversley, the public relations officer; and Leary Sobers, the cultural and events co-ordinator.

The trustees are Rommell McDonald, Cathy Welch, Michael Taylor and Wendale White.

“BAB stands ready to serve as a bridge of friendship and excellence between our two wonderful islands,” Mr Estwick added.

For more information, membership inquiries or to get involved with the programme, e-mail Barbadosassociation.bermuda@gmail.com or call 717-0529.