Sixteen interns have started a six-week internship programme within the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) as part of its Summer Internship Programme (SIP).
The interns were welcomed into the organization at a formal ceremony held at the Conference Centre in the Treasury Building on Independence Drive. Senior Managers of APUA, led by Chief Executive Officer, John Bradshaw and Chief Financial Officer, Roger Tonge, were on hand to welcome the young people to APUA.
Chairman of the SIP, Lyle Jackson, welcomed the interns noting that are now a part of what has become one of the most sought after, and prestigious internship programmes in the Caribbean.
He noted that out of hundreds of applicants they have earned your place in a programme that has been changing lives, and shaping futures for decades. At APUA, he added, the organisation believes that its role in national development extends far beyond the delivery of electricity, water and telecommunications services.
“It includes investing in our most valuable asset… our people. SIP is a cornerstone of this commitment, and it’s more than an internship. It is a Launchpad for professional growth, personal discovery, and community leadership.
“SIP began with a simple but powerful goal… to provide young Antiguans and Barbudans with meaningful work experience. However, in 2012 we transformed SIP from a traditional internship, into a comprehensive developmental journey. The program not only nurtures technical skills, but the character, confidence, and competence that young professionals need to thrive in a changing world.
“Since then SIP has grown into what is now widely recognized as “The Caribbean’s Most Prestigious Internship Program”, he stated.
Human Resources Manager, Rodney Simon, offered words of advice to the 16 as they begin their assignments within the various departments and division within APUA.
“Firstly, embrace a growth mindset view every task, challenge and feedback as an opportunity to lern and improve. Mistakes are part of the journey; what matters is your ability to learn and grow from them. Next, demonstrate reliability and initiative. Be punctual, dependable and proactive and to approach each day with enthusiasm, resilience and respect,” he advised.
