Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Trust (BHCT), an independent and impartial non-profit organisation that leads fundraising and charitable giving for the Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB), yesterday announced the appointment of DeShae DeShields as marketing and events coordinator.

In her new role, Ms. DeShields is responsible for all strategic marketing and communications initiatives for BHCT. In addition, she directs planning for all special events and fundraisers for which BHCT is a beneficiary.

Before joining the Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Trust, Ms DeShields worked in Toronto, Canada as an events coordinator while completing her post-graduate studies.

In summer 2009, she was the marketplace coordinator for the Scotiabank Caribana Festival and was responsible for all vendors and sponsors involved in each event. She also has planned fundraisers in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities and the St. Felix Center.

"Previous experience working within the non-profit sector combined with her academic background, qualifies DeShae as the ideal candidate for this newly structured position," said Wendy Augustus, executive director of Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Trust.

"We are thrilled to have DeShae join our team and we look forward to her efforts in publicising and promoting the Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Trust as we continue to provide philanthropic leadership on hospital care issues and strengthen the impact of hospital care delivery at the BHB." Ms DeShields earned her bachelor's degree in professional writing and communications from York University and a post-graduate certificate in sports and event marketing from George Brown College.

"I am excited and honoured to take on the position of marketing and events coordinator," said Ms. DeShields. "Working with BHCT will provide me with the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community through creative marketing efforts and exciting outreach activities."

The Trust currently is focusing all of its resources and efforts on the KEMH Redevelopment Project, with other initiatives to follow in the future.