Premier David Burt said: “Let me first extend my thanks to Renee Webb for the work that she did in establishing the office and setting the stage for Bermuda’s ongoing interaction with the various EU entities in Brussels. Renee, developed key relationships with the Commission and important stakeholders in the EU Member countries. She also ensured that the office welcomed young Bermudians as interns gaining invaluable experience in this centre of international affairs.”

Aliyyah Ahad is a public policy expert with experience living and working in Bermuda, Toronto, Paris, Rabat, Washington D.C., Oxford, London, and Brussels. Ms. Ahad has spent the last four years working in the heart of the European Union, building relationships with a range of policy stakeholders and conducting high quality research and analysis on some of the most contentious issues facing the continent, such as Brexit, the EU budget, and EU cooperation with third countries on migration. She has regularly participated in and organised high level events for EU and national government officials, in addition to closed door bilateral briefings.

Ms. Ahad holds a master of science in migration studies and master of public policy, with distinction, from the University of Oxford, where she studied as a Rhodes Scholar. She also holds an honours bachelor of arts degree in political science and sociology from the University of Toronto, with high distinction. Ms. Ahad also spent a year studying at Sciences Po Paris, where she received an exchange programme certificate, cum laude. She is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers and the African Caribbean Pacific Young Professionals Network. She speaks English and French.

Welcoming Ms. Ahad’s appointment, Premier Burt said: “Aliyyah is an incredible Bermudian talent whose service in this role we are privileged to enjoy. I know her to be a dedicated intellectual who, I am sure, will bring her customary professionalism and thoroughness to the task that lies ahead. I am pleased that she has accepted this challenge and I look forward to working with her to further Bermuda’s interest within the EU.”

Reflecting on her time at the helm of the office, Ms. Webb said: “It has been a tremendous opportunity to serve my country in such a unique way. I welcomed the challenge of starting an office and building a rapport with seasoned diplomats and career foreign service officers. I believe Bermuda’s interests will continue to be well served by Aliyyah and I have every confidence in her abilities.”

Premier Burt concluded: “The uncertainty in many areas of global affairs means that more than ever, countries like Bermuda must be at the forefront of protecting their interests and remaining fully engaged with key decision-makers in areas that impact our affairs here at home. Bermuda in Brussels continues to be a fundamental part of ensuring the continued economic success of Bermuda.”