Students looking to join the workforce rounded off a successful summer of work experience with a reception and networking event.

The 135 participants of the Department of Workforce Development’s 2022 Summer Employment Programme and the Summer Internship Programme met on Wednesday for a joint reception to mark the end of the programme.

The Employment Programme took in 83 college students in June and placed them within government, private and non-profit sectors based on their interests.

Each student was offered an entry-level work assignment and encouraged to use it as a chance to develop their leadership and decision-making skills.

The students received a $6,000 stipend throughout the ten weeks to help to pay for schooling and living expenses.

Wendell Tucker, who worked with the Department of Youth and Sport, said that the internship allowed him to put the skills he learnt at university to task in a professional environment.

He added: “I have also received additional skills and experience that will assist me in the workplace when I return from completing my studies.

“I would encourage others to apply as this has been a great experience."

The Summer Internship Programme started in July and took in 52 high school pupils on an exploration of the workplace and different career options.

Brianna Smith, who spent the five-week programme at Ultimate Imaging, said: "I am very grateful for the opportunity this programme provides.

“The team at Ultimate Imaging embraced me and included me in all aspects of their day-to-day operations. The network and support were great."

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Labour, said that programmes that bridged the space between education and employment were key to fulfilling the ministry’s mission statement of creating “a resilient workforce and support a sustainable and stable community”.

He added: “An important part of Bermuda’s Youth Employment Strategy is supporting our youth by providing experiences critical to their future success.

“To that end, the summer employment programmes are a springboard for our young people to gain valuable work experience to prepare them for entering the workforce."