The Tribune

The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Bahamas branch discussed emerging trends, regulatory developments and financial services innovations during its annual conference last week.

Theo Burrows, the STEP Bahamas conference chair, said: “This conference represents an invaluable opportunity for professionals to exchange insights, strengthen international networks and explore the latest advancements in trust and estate practices. The calibre of speakers and attendees reaffirms The Bahamas’ position as a leading global financial centre.”

Brandace B. Duncanson, director of financial services at the Ministry of Economic Affair, called upon attendees to “reimagine what financial services can be”. She said: “Constant evolution and adaptation will be key as we respond to the rapidly changing world.

“As I speak, geopolitical alliances are morphing, technological advances are being rolled out and new rules are being drawn up. These changes have major implications for trust and estate practice, investment, wealth management and financial services at large. How will we stay ahead of the curve when it comes to offering diverse, innovative products that meet increasingly complex client needs?”

The John Lawrence Trailblazer Award was presented to Antoinette Russell, founder and chief executive of Maran Global Solutions. It recognised her contributions to the financial services industry over the past three decades. She was the first female managing director of an international trust company owned by a global institution.

“It is with gratitude and humility that I stand before you today to accept the John Lawrence Trailblazer Award,” said Ms Russell. “For me, this moment is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of the many hands, hearts and mindset that have shaped my journey.

“I am extremely humbled and honoured to receive this recognition, and extend my heartfelt thanks to STEP Bahamas and each of you for your support, encouragement and belief in the power of genuine authentic service and leadership excellence.”

Ms Russell called on conference attendees to recognise that all experiences, even the most challenging, carry a lesson. “What if, instead of seeing tough times as barriers, we saw them as blueprints? What if every mistake, every detour, every ‘no’ or resistance we received was a lesson shaping us for something greater? that has been my approach and motivation,” she added.

The STEP Bahamas Conference 2025 also featured panel discussions and presentations on critical topics including a legal and regulatory outlook led by Senator Ryan Pinder KC, the attorney general, who addressed the latest regulatory developments and their impact on trust structures.

A panel celebrating the contributions of women leaders in the financial services industry was featured along with the implications of global political shifts on estate planning.

John Lawrence, chief executive of the Windermere Group, for whom the prestigious Trailblazer Award is named, said: “We always look forward to welcoming industry leaders from across the globe to The Bahamas. This conference not only provides valuable knowledge-sharing opportunities but also reinforces our country’s reputation as a jurisdiction of choice for wealth management.”