Photos & Video: Graduate Trainee Participants

Anah Lightbourne, Brandon Johnson, Colisha Pearman, Eyani Franklin-Smith, Saige Ming, Sherkeela Ming, Tianna Mullan, Tonyah Gift, and Keia Zia Burchall-Busbee recently completed the Graduate Trainee Programme.

Minister of Labour Jason Hayward said, “I am delighted to be here tonight at this special reception honouring the incredible achievements of the Graduate Trainee Programme participants. It is an honour to witness the impact and success of this programme firsthand.”

A Government spokesperson said, “The event, recently held at ConnecTech, marked the completion of the programme and honoured the graduates with certificates recognising their accomplishments.

“The individuals completing the programme were:

• Anah Lightbourne
• Brandon Johnson
• Colisha Pearman
• Eyani Franklin – Smith
• Saige Ming
• Sherkeela Ming
• Tianna Mullan
• Tonyah Gift
• Keia Zia Burchall-Busbee

Minister Hayward said, “The GAP programme has been a remarkable initiative, engaging nine college and university graduates over ten weeks. I am thrilled to announce that seven of the nine participants have successfully completed the programme. It is truly a testament to their dedication and hard work.

“Tonight, I want to spotlight a few exceptional success stories from the GAP programme. These stories exemplify the transformative power of this initiative and the significant impact it has had on the lives and careers of our participants.

“I am proud to recognise a graduate who, through strategic collaboration with the GAP programme, removed barriers and became the first Bermudian in over a decade to receive training in the investigative department of the Bermuda Police Services. This achievement is a testament to their determination and the invaluable support provided by the GAP programme.

“Another outstanding success story comes from our collaboration with CariGenetics. One of our graduates secured permanent employment and is now leading a team spearheading the first Caribbean Breast Cancer Whole Genome Pilot Study. This remarkable initiative perfectly aligns with Bermuda’s Youth Employment Strategy and highlights the transformative potential of the GAP programme.

“ConnecTech has also strongly supported the GAP programme, offering opportunities to two graduates. Not only has one of them secured permanent employment after receiving additional training funded by the Department of Workforce Development [DWD], but the other has built a robust marketing portfolio, enhancing their competitiveness and readiness for the workforce.

“Lastly, our partnerships with PALS and King Edward Memorial Hospital have provided a graduate with the invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience as a medical and mental health social worker. This experience will help her make informed decisions about her future career and make a meaningful contribution to the field of social work.

“These remarkable success stories are just a glimpse into the incredible achievements made possible by the GAP program. They exemplify the commitment of our participants, our partnering organisations’ dedication, and the GAP program’s effectiveness in paving the way for meaningful careers and personal growth.

“I want to express my deep appreciation to the Department of Workforce Development and all the organisations involved in the GAP program for their unwavering support and dedication to Bermuda’s youth. Your efforts play a pivotal role in empowering our graduates, fostering their growth, and driving our country’s socioeconomic progress.

“To the graduates, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and admiration for your accomplishments. You are the shining examples of what can be achieved with hard work, determination, and the support of programs like GAP. As you embark on the next chapter of your career, I am confident you will continue to excel and make significant contributions to our community.

“Thank you all for joining us tonight to celebrate the remarkable success of the GAP program. Let us applaud our graduates and the organisations that have supported them along their journey. Together, we are building a brighter future for Bermuda’s workforce.”

Anah Lightbourne, Colisha Pearman, Brandon Johnson, Saige Ming, Minister Hayward, Tonya Gift, Tianna Mullan, Sherkeela Ming, Eyani Franklin–Smith, and Keia Zia Burchall-Busbee.

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