Three Students Interning At London Office
Three of Bermuda’s best and brightest college students are undergoing a rigourous round of training for the next several weeks at the Bermuda Government’s London Office. Summer interns Trent Lightbourne, Mica Murray and Aliyyah Ahad were all chosen to travel to London as part of the Government of Bermuda’s Summer Employment Programme.
Trent is studying Finance and Economics at Andrews University, Mica is studying Public Relations at Mount Saint Vincent University and Aliyyah is studying Political Science and Sociology at University of Toronto. The internship commenced on July 5, and will last for five weeks.
The joint initiative between the Cabinet Office and the Department of Labour and Training was the brainchild of the Premier Dr Ewart Brown. Welcoming the addition of these young Bermudians to the London Office team, the Premier said, “This exposure can only bring benefits to these young people. This Government will continue to work hard to provide every opportunity to make our young people citizens of the world.”
The Minister responsible for labour and training Lt. Col. David Burch added, “When the Premier asked if this was possible we had no difficulty in identifying the best and brightest in our programme and providing them with the opportunity to broaden their horizons in one of the world’s leading cities.”
Since July 5, the students have been immersing themselves in the business of the London Office. Aliyyah and Mica represented Bermuda along with Ms. Durrant at the Women In Diplomatic Service Annual General Meeting. There, the students were provided a rare opportunity to witness the election of H.E. Ambassador, Joan Rwabyomere, Uganda High Commissioner as Chairman.
In addition to gaining experience within the London Office such as assisting in Consulate Affairs, the internship has provided the students with such exposure as:
- A tour of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, including meeting Mr. Colin Roberts, Director of the Overseas Territories Directorate.
- A tour of the Houses of Parliament followed by a question and answer session with Bermuda’s All Party Parliamentary Group; and
- A one week work placement with Butterfield Private Bank in the UK, where the students will be afforded the opportunity to shadow Directors in the fields of executive management, investment management, managing client relationships and risk and compliance to name a few.
In addition to gaining work experience the students have explored some of the cultural features and characteristics of London. At the end of the internship the three will present a researched presentation to the London Office team on Bermuda’s relationship with the UK based on their overall experiences.
Meanwhile, the London Office advises students who are studying in the UK to ensure they are registered with the London Office. This ensures students are able to participate in events organised by the London Office. Registration can be made on www.londonoffice.gov.bm.
