"Customs Officers play a critical part in protecting our borders, safeguarding our economy, and ensuring that the laws of our land are upheld,” said Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, during a Bermuda Customs Department Passing-Out ceremony on February 13th, 2025.
The Bermuda Customs Department has strengthened its ranks with the addition of 20 new Trainee Customs Officers, who were officially confirmed during the End-of-Basic Training Ceremony held at the Hamilton Princess Hotel.
The graduates successfully completed six weeks of rigorous training to prepare them for their critical role in safeguarding Bermuda's borders from illicit imports, including drugs and illegal contraband.
The bolstering of Bermuda’s uniformed services, including the Customs Department, remains a priority for the Government. This latest intake of Trainee Customs Officers is a testament to the Government's commitment to ensuring the Island’s border security remains effective and robust in the face of evolving international threats.
In his address to the new officers, Minister Weeks commended them for their commitment to serving Bermuda. Minister Weeks stated:
“Your work not only helps to prevent illegal goods from entering our country but also supports the lawful flow of trade, while contributing to the Island's economy.
"Thank you for stepping up to this challenge and choosing to serve Bermuda with honour and integrity. Your contribution is invaluable, and I am confident that you will uphold the proud tradition of excellence within the Bermuda Customs Department."
The event was attended by family members and friends of the newly-minted Trainee Customs Officers, and several awards were presented to recognise their achievements.
Among these awards was the inaugural Collector’s Cup, which is awarded to officers demonstrating dedication, integrity and achievement during their training. Officers Jessica Andrade and David Simmons were the recipients of the cup.
The recipients of the Arthur Eugene Virgil Award, which was also established for the first time, were Tianny Butterfield and Antione Williams. This award is given in memory of former long-serving Customs Officer Arthur Virgil to trainee officers who demonstrate the spirit of camaraderie, teamwork and encouragement.
The 20 newly confirmed Trainee Customs Officers are:
- Kenneth Young
- Shaddai Williams
- Antione Williams
- David Simmons
- Delray Rawlins
- Raichelle Pavy-Johnson
- Jessica Andrade
- Christopher Pacheco
- Arian Morris
- Derriko Augustus
- Allan Ball Jr.
- Siairah Minors
- Aleisha Martin
- Tianny Butterfield
- Diamond Dill
- Renee Harvey
- Ashanti Hart
- Milun Dunlop
- Jayden Fagundo-Brimmer
- Vladimir Focke
Collector of Customs Lucinda Pearman also congratulated the new recruits and highlighted the essential role Customs Officers play in protecting Bermuda.
She later said: "Our officers are the first line of defence against illicit goods entering the Island, and we take that responsibility very seriously.
“These new Trainee Customs Officers have undergone extensive training to prepare them for the challenges ahead.
“They will continue to receive ongoing training to ensure they remain equipped to tackle emerging threats to our borders. I welcome them to the team and thank them for their dedication to this crucial national duty."
Photos from the ceremony are attached. Attached are photos from last week's ceremony, along with the official programme, which contains further details, including biographies of each new Trainee Customs Officer.