The Department of Culture hosted its annual Cultural Connect event on Thursday, 18 September 2025, at the Blue Diamond, Young Men’s Social Club. The evening gathered artists, tradition-bearers, cultural workers, and community leaders for a panel discussion, live music, and networking centred on Bermuda’s National Cultural Heritage Policy. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening Bermuda’s cultural landscape and ensuring it thrives for future generations.
Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, said in his opening remarks, “This gathering is about building relationships, sparking ideas, and creating the connections that allow culture to grow in Bermuda. I want to thank the Department of Culture for bringing us together this evening. But it is you, our artists, tradition-bearers, cultural workers, and community leaders, who bring the National Cultural Heritage Policy to life. Your creativity, your stories, and your dedication are what ensure Bermuda’s culture remains strong and relevant.”
The Minister’s address highlighted the value of cultural participation and the role of the community in shaping Bermuda’s evolving identity. From the rhythms of the Gombeys to the words of local storytellers, culture was celebrated as both heritage and innovation. Attendees were encouraged to contribute their voices and ideas through discussions and feedback, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to inclusive cultural development.
Cultural Connect continues to serve as a vital forum for dialogue, creativity, and exchange, offering a space for Bermudians to engage in shaping the future of cultural policy and practice. The Department of Culture remains dedicated to supporting the arts, uplifting tradition, and investing in new generations of creators, ensuring that Bermuda’s unique cultural identity is celebrated at home and shared with the wider world.