The Government of Bermuda London Office is proud to announce that two young Bermudians, Mr. Jasiah Durham and Mr. Matthew Nagel, were selected to attend the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference, held in Nice, France, from 9–13 June 2025.

They represented the youth of Bermuda at this high-level international forum, which was co-hosted by France and Costa Rica. The Conference brought together global leaders and stakeholders to accelerate action in support of Sustainable Development Goal 14: conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Through Bermuda’s involvement in the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA), where the Government of Bermuda London Office represents Bermuda, it was discovered that the UK Overseas Territories contain an astounding 94% of the UK’s total biodiversity. Bermuda’s participation in UKOTA ensures that opportunities with real benefits for Bermudians, especially youth, are realised through coordinated, collective action.

As a result of ongoing advocacy, the GO Programme, an EU-funded initiative supporting youth in the European Union’s Overseas Countries and Territories, has extended its reach to include youth from the UK Overseas Territories. The Programme fully sponsored the participation of selected UK OT youth delegates, including Mr. Durham and Mr. Nagel. Youth delegates from Montserrat and Saint Helena also attended under the Programme’s support.

The selection of Mr. Durham and Mr. Nagel is a significant milestone, underscoring the success of continued diplomatic efforts to amplify the voices of young Bermudians in global forums. The Government of Bermuda London Office remains committed to creating pathways for young people to engage in international diplomacy and environmental leadership.

Ms. Kimberley Durrant, UK Representative for the Government of Bermuda, stated:
“I extend sincere congratulations to Mr. Durham and Mr. Nagel on both their selection and exemplary contribution to the UN Ocean Conference as youth representatives of the UK Overseas Territories. Our continued diplomatic presence allows us to capitalise on these global opportunities and ensure that young Bermudians have a voice at the table.”

Mr. Jasiah Durham said:
“The experience allowed me to bring Bermuda’s voice and the voice of small island communities facing disproportionate environmental challenges into critical global discussions on ocean conservation, climate change, and sustainable development. I’m deeply proud to have contributed to these conversations and to advocate for stronger international cooperation that ensures the long-term health of our oceans.”

Mr. Matthew Nagel added:
“Bermudians have long led the way in sustainability and the protection of the high seas. It’s critical that we claim our seat at the table in these discussions to ensure we are not overlooked by those contributing most to climate disasters. I am honoured to have represented my home at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice and am grateful to the GO Programme and the Government of Bermuda for this opportunity.”