The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) proudly welcomed the fifth cohort of the National Youth Guard (NYG) on Saturday, 16 August 2025, as seventy young Bahamians embarked on their journey of service, discipline, and national development.
The new intake, consisting of forty males and thirty females, began their experience at the Ministry of National Security Building, Defence Headquarters on JFK Drive. From there, the recruits were transported to HMBS Coral Harbour Base, where they were introduced to their accommodations and received their gear and training kits.
Under the leadership of Captain Sonia Miller, Programme Coordinator; Lieutenant Commander Latoya Brown, Deputy Coordinator; Force Chief Petty Officer Paulette Higgs, Administrator; and Chief Petty Officer Missick, Chief Instructor, the recruits are guided through a rigorous curriculum from their first day., The training programme is also facilitated by sixteen RBDF instructors and is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to serve their country in times of disaster and beyond. The orientation session covered fire safety, security protocols, and sexual harassment awareness which laid a strong foundation of discipline and awareness for the weeks ahead.
The NYG training focuses on crisis and disaster management and response, as well as employability and leadership development, ensuring participants are prepared not only to answer the call of duty in emergencies but also to make meaningful contributions in the wider workforce. Partnerships with key agencies such as the Disaster Risk Management Authority, the Bahamas Department of Meteorology, the Royal Bahamas Police Force, The Bahamas Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute, to name a few, provide recruits with a well-rounded experience that combines disaster response, community service, and essential life skills.
As the recruits settle into their training, Cohort 5 represents a new generation of disciplined, skilled, and service-minded Bahamians who stand ready to support their communities and strengthen the nation. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force remains committed to developing the youth of The Bahamas into leaders of tomorrow, united in purpose and dedicated to the protection and advancement of the country.
