Bermuda’s developing role in global digital infrastructure was highlighted by the Minister of Home Affairs at an international gathering last week.

Alexa Lightbourne delivered a keynote address at the AfroTech Conference in Houston Texas, where more than 40,000 technology professionals, founders, investors and business leaders came together.

In her presentation, “Building the Digital Bridge: How Small Nations Are Winning Big in Global Tech Infrastructure,” she highlighted how Bermuda secured Google’s subsea cable investments, including the Nuvem and Sol systems landed in June 2026 and the Canoa system announced in August 2026.

She also set out Google’s commitment to skills training and scholarships for Bermudians so that residents gain the exposure and qualifications to take up roles in the island’s growing digital infrastructure sector.

Ms Lightbourne said: “Sound regulation for the digital needs of the future laid the foundation for Bermuda’s next chapter of economic growth.

“That foundation creates opportunities for our people, room for local businesses to expand, and a stronger community. It lets Bermuda compete globally while the domestic economy evolves.

“But, as we embrace these new international relationships, the fundamental task is to make sure the benefits of the digital future unapologetically reach every corner of our island.”

Ms Lightbourne also took part in a Smart Cities Executive Roundtable with elected officials and senior executives from across North America.

The discussion focused on how leaders balance competing priorities, work with private sector partners and ensure communities receive tangible value from large-scale technology investment.

Ms Lightbourne also met with Derrick Warren, a dean at the College of Business and Entrepreneurship at Grambling State University, and discussed opportunities for Bermudians in areas aligned with the island’s digital transformation agenda.

She later took part in a reception for members of the African-American mayors Association.