Faith, Resilience, and the Power of Perseverance – Dr. Bufford’s Journey at Inspire You

On March 23rd, Sonia Noel Inc. and Women Across Borders hosted the Inspire You: Virtual Edition—a transformative event dedicated to uplifting and empowering women through stories of leadership, resilience, and unwavering faith. Among the distinguished speakers was Dr. Renae Ferguson-Bufford, Executive Director of the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ), who delivered a deeply personal and moving testimony.

Dr. Bufford’s journey is one of courage, faith, and the quiet strength of perseverance. In December 2001, she was diagnosed with an endometrial cyst. Doctors prepared her for the worst: if cancer was found during surgery, they would need to remove her womb entirely—eliminating any chance of motherhood.

But moments before the procedure on January 29, 2002, she made a courageous plea on the surgical table:

“Please remove only the left side of my womb. Save my right ovary.”

That bold act of faith resonated deeply with her doctor. After surgery, she was diagnosed with early-stage cancer—but her right ovary was intact. Against all odds, and holding firm to her faith, Dr. Bufford became the proud mother of two sons eight and a half years later. Her story stands as a living testament that miracles do happen—and that faith can triumph over even the bleakest prognosis.

Her testimony touched hearts across the region, offering hope to women who face similar struggles and proving that resilience, trust in God, and perseverance can lead to miracles.

But Dr. Bufford’s journey doesn’t end there. She continues to lead with distinction and purpose on the national and international stage.

As Executive Director of BBSQ, she is a driving force behind the development of quality standards in The Bahamas. Her trailblazing leadership recently earned her a historic achievement—becoming the first person from a CARICOM country elected to the ISO Council, representing Small Island Developing States (SIDS) under Group 4.

She is also the champion of the “Made in The Bahamas” Certification Program, designed to strengthen trust in locally produced goods and create pathways for Bahamian businesses to thrive in regional and global markets.

Dr. Bufford holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Science and Education from Georgia State University, a Master of Arts in Science Education with Biological Research, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry. Her strong academic foundation fuels her mission to build systems that empower future generations through quality, education, and innovation.

Her appearance at Inspire You was more than a speech—it was a powerful testimony of grace in adversity, and leadership rooted in divine purpose.

Whether overcoming personal trials or advancing national development, Dr. Bufford embodies faith, excellence, and the transformative power of perseverance.