Longtime Progressive Labour Party (PLP) member and conference delegate Mrs. Esme Williams has voiced disappointment in recent comments made by Shomari Talbot-Woolridge, who alleged that young people were being left out of the party’s internal processes.
In an interview following the annual Delegates Conference, Mrs. Williams—who is legally blind and a life member of the PLP—said she was “disheartened” by Talbot-Woolridge’s remarks, which she believes misrepresented both the tone and substance of the weekend’s gathering.
“The whole concept and theme of this year’s conference was about inclusion—not just of young people, but everyone,” Williams said. “We spoke about the worth and value of all members: the younger ones, the middle-aged, and the seniors. Everyone has something to contribute to make this PLP a productive party that meets the needs of Bermuda.”
Williams explained that the process of inclusion also involves mentorship and development, not instant leadership.
“We have to walk alongside our young people, and they alongside us. It’s about mentoring—helping them learn and grow. You don’t just come in and suddenly get a position. There’s a progression in leadership and teamwork. You learn, you contribute, and you build relationships.”
According to Williams, both Talbot-Woolridge and Arianna Hodgson were nominated for positions during the conference. Talbot-Woolridge ran for Public Relations Officer, a role that ultimately went to Joanne Ball-Burgess, who Williams described as “highly experienced in media and communication.”
Williams noted that Ball-Burgess had expressed a desire to work together with Talbot-Woolridge even after winning.
“Joanne said she wanted to co-chair the position with Shomari because they had already been working together,” Williams recounted. “But by that time, Shomari and Arianna had left the room. They walked out, upset, saying the party didn’t care about young people.”
She added that their departure shocked other attendees.
“Everyone was surprised. Joanne was looking for him because she truly wanted to include him in the work.”
Williams stressed that the conference was one of the most unified and well-run she had ever attended.
“This was one of the best conferences we’ve had,” she said. “From the premier’s speech to the sessions on inclusion, it was all about togetherness. To see it portrayed as divisive is just not true.”
Calling the current generation “a bit of a microwave generation,” Williams urged young party members to value the process of growth rather than expecting instant success.
“You don’t just win right away. You have to learn, compete, and gain experience. Losing doesn’t make you a failure—it’s a step in your development,” she said. “In this party, we need people willing to learn, build relationships, and grow into leadership.”
Drawing from party history, Williams cited former Premier Dame Jennifer Smith as a prime example of persistence and patience.
“Dame Jennifer ran six times before she finally won in St. George’s,” Williams recalled. “That’s the spirit we need to teach our young people. Don’t give up—keep showing up.”
In closing, Williams said her comments come from a place of love and commitment to the PLP.
“If your heart is in the right place, if you truly want to serve and build this party, there’s always room for you. But you have to be ready to put in the work, learn from others, and understand that leadership is earned.”
Photo courtesy of the RG
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