Ja’Ann Major was sworn in as the newest senator on the governing side in a ceremony held at Government House on Thursday.  Major was officially sworn in by Governor General, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Cynthia Pratt.

In attendance was Major’s family and various government officials led by Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis.  During his remarks the Prime Minister spoke highly of Major’s qualifications.  He said, “her knowledge of the maritime and aviation businesses has given her a deep well of expertise which will allow her to begin contributing right away.  Her work on the boards of the Bahamas Maritime Authority and the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation has given her experience navigating complex issues.  She is ready to create and drive policies which will help us modernize and expand the Bahamian economy. I’m so optimistic about our country’s future because of Bahamians like Ja’Ann, one of our new generation of leaders who are ready to innovate and change what is possible for our country.”

After being sworn Senator Major addressed those gathered for the occasion.  She said, “I am here to work tirelessly for the people, to listen to their needs and to advocate for solutions that  bring about meaningful change.  Public service to me is not about holding a title, its about showing up for the people who entrust you with their hopes and dreams.  I am committed to being a senator who remains grounded in the realities of everyday Bahamians, who understands their struggles and who fights for the opportunities that they deserve.  This role is an honour but it is also a responsibility. It is a commitment to serve with integrity, to act with compassion and to strive for a future where every Bahamian no matter their background has the chance to strive.”

Senator Major replaces Quinton Lightbourne who resigned from the upper chamber on Monday after accepting a post at the Inter-American Development Bank in Washington DC.