NASSAU, The Bahamas —Lorraine Symonette-Armbrister, Permanent Secretary in The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, has received the Order of Distinction, marking a proud milestone in a public service career spanning more than four decades.
Her journey reflects the strength of Bahamian leadership: building experience, opening opportunities for others and helping national institutions serve their communities.
Symonette-Armbrister entered the public service in September 1982 as a Trainee Executive Officer in the Ministry of Education. She subsequently held senior responsibilities across education, housing, transport and aviation, becoming The Bahamas’ first female Chief Housing Officer. Her work in housing included contributing to government subdivisions that provided homes for hundreds of Bahamian families.
Her contributions also connect directly with the people and infrastructure behind tourism. She helped establish a conch-shell jewelry and souvenir initiative that equipped Bahamian entrepreneurs with practical skills to build their own businesses. In transport and aviation, she worked with teams advancing airport lighting, weather-monitoring capabilities and modernization.
That experience brings a valuable perspective to her tourism responsibilities. A successful destination depends on capable administration, reliable connections and opportunities for local people to participate in the visitor economy.
Her recognition comes alongside another celebration of her achievements. St. Augustine’s College, where she graduated in 1977, has named her among the alumni to be honored at its Lighthouse Awards and Gala Ball on October 24 at the Atlantis Ballroom.
For The Bahamas, hers is a story worth celebrating: a woman who began as a trainee and rose to senior national leadership, helping generations of Bahamians along the way.
eTurboNews congratulates Lorraine Symonette-Armbrister on this honor and her enduring commitment to The Bahamas.
Leave a Comment