Lisa T. Rahming’s appeal for young musicians brings an immediate pledge of instruments

A heartfelt appeal from Bahamian minister Lisa T. Rahming prompted an immediate offer of support for a youth band during a trade mission bringing officials and business leaders together in Grand Bahama. Rahming asked investors to consider the children whose opportunities and futures could be shaped by their decisions. Speaking at the Freeport–Riviera Beach Trade Mission on November 9, Rahming, who was serving as Acting Minister for Grand Bahama, brought 15 young members of the Grand Bahama Urban Renewal Band before the gathering. She urged those present to see investment not only in economic terms, but also through its potential impact on children growing up in the community. Rahming suggested that one of the young musicians could someday take on a leadership role like hers, or become a future national leader. She said that investing in Grand Bahama also means investing in its children and the generations to come, according to the account of her remarks. The appeal drew a swift response from Riviera Beach Police Chief Michael A. Coleman, who came forward and pledged a musical instrument for every band member. The group has 200 registered members and is led by Band Director Inspector Rovan Carey, with assistant directors Corporal 1268 Ferguson and Reserve Assistant Superintendent Robert Higgs. Rahming also pointed to the band’s need for instruments, uniforms and other resources. She highlighted how music programmes can help young people develop confidence, discipline and skills, and urged potential investors to connect those needs with broader plans for economic growth. The trade mission, held from November 8 to 11, brought together government representatives, entrepreneurs and business leaders from Freeport and Riviera Beach to discuss trade, investment and cooperation. Coleman’s pledge offered a practical response to Rahming’s call, while placing the young musicians at the centre of a discussion about Grand Bahama’s future.