12 Graduate From Colonial Internship Program
This year marked the introduction of Colonial’s inaugural internship program, with Chelsea Rodrigues, Christian Petty, Donnauri Robinson, Ezra Turner, Jordan Smith, Julianna Brewer, Kiara [Starr] Rogers, Makyla Callender-Jones, Marley Hines, Sacara Phillips, Tierrai Tull, and Yusef Bushara making up this year’s group.
A spokesperson said, “Colonial believes an investment in our youth, is an investment in our future. With that in mind, this year marked the introduction of Colonial’s inaugural internship program. This program, is intended to foster, educate, and empower young Bermudians, instilling in them the conviction to pursue work in the insurance industry.
“We were thrilled to welcome a diverse group of 12 students ranging in ages from 17 to 21— each offering a rich palette of invaluable skills. Chelsea Rodrigues, Christian Petty, Donnauri Robinson, Ezra Turner, Jordan Smith, Julianna Brewer, Kiara [Starr] Rogers, Makyla Callender-Jones, Marley Hines, Sacara Phillips, Tierrai Tull, and Yusef Bushara made up this year’s group.
“The program, through strategic work placement, enabled our interns to gain exposure and insight into the diverse functions of a local insurance company, all with the hopes that they return in the future. We’ve created a work environment where our employees can quickly provide guidance and professional direction for our interns.
“Each intern was assigned a ‘coach,’ who operated as a mentor. The carefully matched coach and intern share common traits, adding to their personal and professional development.
“Jordan Smith [Intern, Colonial Insurance] reflected that he was fully supported by, ‘individuals who have previously taken designation exams to ensure that [he was] on the correct path and moving at the best pace possible.’
“At Colonial, we firmly believe in the benefits of an interdisciplinary working and learning environment. In harmony with that philosophy, throughout the program two teams of interns collected research on how to leverage technology for the improvement of customer and internal relations. Their project culminated with a formal presentation to their mentors, managers and company executives.
“Other highlights included a community service day at Packwood Home in Somerset. There, our interns washed windows, cleaned the beach and mowed the lawn, before engaging with the residents through thoughtful conversation and game. Julianna Brewer [Intern, Colonial Medical] commented on her community service experience saying, “It was profoundly enriching talking to people with so much knowledge.”
“Core to this program’s function was the opportunity for interns to learn about themselves and their community. Throughout the summer, our interns enjoyed frequent ‘Lunch and Learns’, a fireside chat with our Group General Counsel and a team building day at Outward Bound.
“We are excited to announce that invitations have been sent to 2 student interns to return to Colonial. Application details for the 2020 Summer Internship Program will be released later this year.”
