AND IT’S NOT POT –
Aug. 22, 2026 – A young Bermudian who faced substance abuse challenges has turned his life around and is planning to become a pilot. Jacob Costa, 25, said a reality check when he watched the door of a jail cell close behind him ignited his drive to pursue new goals.
He looked within himself and wondered what chance he had of changing.
Two months ago — after weeks of self-doubt and years hooked on drugs — he checked into Dignity House, a rehabilitation facility in Pembroke that helps people with substance abuse and mental health disorders.
He said: “It has been life changing. After I came here, my overall outlook on life has changed and I just want to do what’s best for my life.
“I’m going back to school. I’m finally getting to do what I needed to get done in life.
“I’m going to be a pilot. I’m determined to get my pilot licence — it’s something that I told myself I have to do and now I’m a better person and I’m pursuing my dreams.”
Mr Costa said he wanted to inspire the next generation of Bermudians.
He admitted that peer pressure had led him astray as a teenager.
