SANCTUM: A Visionary Framework for Unity in Bermuda
SANCTUM, established under the Emperial Group in 2010, presented an ambitious approach to address Bermuda's socio-economic challenges. Rooted in "Unity in the Community" and "Fighting with Peace, Not for It," it aimed to reduce polarization, foster social harmony, and create sustainable pathways for development.
About Us
The SANCTUM Vision

Economic Empowerment
High-risk individuals and marginalized communities achieving economic independence through employment or entrepreneurship.

Grassroots Development
Complementing national growth in tourism, insurance, and other key sectors with community-level economic initiatives.

Social Cohesion
Strengthening community bonds, reducing violence, and creating trust among the population.
Core Mission and Structure
Community-Based Programs
SANCTUM employed targeted interventions to address social and economic disparities at the neighborhood level. These included the Sounds of Sanctuary (SoS) program, Adopt a Hood sponsorship, and unifying events like CultureFest.
Community-Based Think Tank
The think tank focused on researching community needs, analyzing social policies, and providing actionable recommendations for systemic change. It bridged the gap between marginalized communities and policymakers, ensuring inclusivity in Bermuda's development strategies.
Key Components: Community-Based Programs
Sounds of Sanctuary (SoS)
Engaged 14 at-risk neighborhoods through music-driven block parties, fostering trust and dialogue.
Adopt a Hood
Connected Bermuda's corporate sector with neighborhoods, providing support for local initiatives.
Unifying Events
Large-scale events like CultureFest promoted peace and celebrated Bermuda's cultural diversity.
Strategic Implementation Plan

1

Community Base Building (1980-2008)
Establishing relationships and trust across economic, racial, and social lines.

2

Organization Development (2009-2010)
Launching foundational programs, securing government endorsements, and formalizing SANCTUM as a legal entity.

3

Expansion (2011-2012)
Scaling programs like SoS across all 14 neighborhoods, launching CultureFest, and initiating a 40-week pilot program.
Leadership and Governance
Duvall Spencer
Executive Director, renowned for using art and storytelling to inspire social rehabilitation.
Eugene Dean
Program Director, a lifelong activist leveraging expertise in community infrastructure and holistic development.
Gladwyn Simmons
Supporting Manager, a seasoned social entrepreneur with decades of experience in grassroots activism.
Corin Smith
Supporting Manager, a researcher and non-practicing attorney focused on social justice and reconciliation.
Projected Impact and Financial Sustainability
Projected Impact
  • Reduce neighborhood violence and conflict
  • Build stronger connections between corporate sector and communities
  • Generate actionable data for informed policy-making
  • Enhance trust and collaboration across socio-economic divides
Financial Model
SANCTUM's funding relied on a mix of earned revenue and philanthropic investments. The projected annual budget included $462,885 in operational expenses for 2011, with additional funding for large-scale events like CultureFest.
A Transformative Vision Unrealized
SANCTUM represented a bold, unified approach to addressing Bermuda's challenges. By combining grassroots engagement with systemic advocacy, the initiative sought to heal the island's divisions and set the stage for a more equitable future. Despite its ambitious planning and potential for significant impact, SANCTUM was never brought to fruition.

1

2

3

4

1

Establishment
2010: SANCTUM initiative created under Emperial Group

2

Vision
Addressing socio-economic challenges through unity

3

Approach
Community programs and policy research integration

4

Outcome
Initiative never implemented despite comprehensive planning