First NWDA intern pursues further education overseas
(L-R, back row) Oliver Sinton and Doreth Eugene of PCM; Dianne Conolly of the NWDA; and Richard Hastings of PCM. (L-R, front row) Current and former PCM interns Kisha Stewart and Chaquira Hodgson
(CNS): The National Internship Programme’s first recipient has completed her work experience and headed overseas to pursue her tertiary education. Chaquira Hodgson was placed at Prosperity Capital Management Limited (PCM) through the National Workforce Development Agency’s (NWDA) internship programme.
The programme offers young Caymanians an opportunity to develop their professional skills and apply their studies through hands-on work experience in an office environment. Interns are given a chance to network with professionals in various fields of interest and build relationships that may assist in future job opportunities.
Hodgson, who began her internship in April 2014, said her time at PCM was memorable and educational. She gained work experience and learned how to interact with others on a professional level.
“My advice to any young person would be to take advantage of all opportunities that may arise. It is not always about the money. If you put your best in all that you do you will be greatly rewarded with what you deserve,” Hodgson said.
“Overall, I would say that subsequent to this internship I am a different person and I’m very grateful to PCM and proud of myself for taking advantage of this opportunity.”
The success of the programme has led PCM to offer another internship, with University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) student Kisha Stewart starting at the company last month.
PCM deputy finance manager Doreth Eugene said, “We are very proud of Miss Hodgson and how much she has grown over the course of the internship, both professionally and personally. We feel this programme is very beneficial to young Caymanians as it helps to prepare them for their future careers and we look forward to its continued success as we mentor our new intern, Miss Stewart.”
The UCCI student is looking forward to gaining work experience. “In this competitive market, companies are seeking out the brightest and most talented employees that will help in shaping their company for success. This hands-on internship will complement my studies at university and provide me with an invaluable experience as well as skills and knowledge to help with a smooth transition into the workforce after university when seeking a full-time job.”
Employment Minister Tara Rivers noted the programme’s initial success. “I would like to thank PCM for partnering with the NWDA under the National Internship Programme to provide such important opportunities for our young people.
“I am delighted to hear how successful the internship was for Miss Hodgson and I am confident that Miss Stewart will reap similar rewards from this experience.”
Dianne Conolly, NWDA manager of training and development with oversight for the internship programme, said, “Opportunities in the form of internships offer young Caymanians the ability to enhance their employability skills and integrate knowledge and theory in a practical setting, building professional relationships and networks in the selected career pathway.”
For more information on the National Internship Programme, email the NWDA or call 945-3114
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