The Tribune

CHAMBER VOICE

By Ian Ferguson

Having just enjoyed the nation’s 39th birthday, The Chamber Voice pauses to honor a country that has accomplished much. The Bahamas is blessed to have been able to maintain a high degree of social, political and economic stability. As we look around, in every facet of our nation, we cannot deny that a wave of prosperity has lifted us to a place of prominence and distinction from other countries of the world (see how the world marks the manner of your bearing).

Amid this opulence, Bahamians will all agree that the Bahamas has begun to more rapidly slide down a path of unrighteousness that adversely affects our social well-being. We can point to the high levels of crime and violence in the homes, communities, workplaces, islands and nation as being debilitating to the fabric of our society. But not our society alone. The average businessperson will agree that the work ethic, level of integrity and pride in serving others among employees is waning and being rapidly replaced with a sense of entitlement, lethargy and unscrupulous dealings, and that while our society falls into the doldrums, our economy is following rapidly behind. A sick society produces a sick economy.

So as we celebrate nationhood, our reflection today focuses on strengthening the business community by deepening our sense of national identity and awakening a love of country that manifests itself into corporate social responsibility, unity, teamwork and a love for service.

The average Bahamian has very little knowledge of indigenous things, culture, history, national symbols and government. We take little time to reflect on our African, European and American ancestry, or the lessons we can learn from our colonial past. Without this foundation, it is difficult to serve as an able ambassador of the nation. We find ourselves repeating the mistakes of our past because we are oblivious to our history. We accept readily the customs, behaviors and attitudes of other nationalities because we do not know, or have an appreciation for, our culture and customs. When we develop a deep, abiding love for country, and reverence that which is ours, we are more firmly grounded as a people and able to exude a greater sense of pride in our vocation.

So, from our national symbols, as we celebrate and reflect, the message this week to our corporate community is:

• Lift up your head. We have accomplished much and have much to be proud of. Pride should develop in each of us a will to protect what we have achieved.

• Pledge to excel. We must daily strive for excellence. Mediocrity in our business practices is not acceptable.

• March together to a common, loftier goal. A strong commitment to team is critical to our development as a people. Every Bahamian contributing and avoiding unnecessary competition leads to a more productive workforce

• Steady sunward through the weather. Expect challenging times, but make your resolve to stay the course and learn as you journey

NB: Ian R. Ferguson was educated locally, regionally and internationally, having earned a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Miami. During the course of his nearly 20 years in education, talent management and human resources, he has served both the public and private sector in senior management roles. He currently serves as manager of the Chamber Institute, and as a local consultant in the field, having assisted hundreds of local and regional businesses in improving business and service excellence through their human capital.