Interns take first step on the career ladder 

What makes the difference between an internship that’s a box-ticking exercise for both employer and student, and one that adds real value to both parties? 

Every summer, Camana Bay is filled with interns learning the ropes in a wide range of industries, from retail and hospitality to law, accounting and fintech. Regardless of the role, the common theme for a productive partnership is providing hands-on experience where the intern can complete real-life tasks on the job. 

Three Camana Bay companies with successful intern programmes recently shared insights into the benefits for business owners and for young people starting out on their careers.

DESIGN STUDIO
Cameron Doak, intern

A fourth-year interior design student at Toronto Metropolitan University, Doak is using the technical skills and software learned in her courses to create plans, sections and elevations for clients. She also has the opportunity to see digital drawings come to life by visiting various project sites, from new builds to renovations. Working shifts on the shop floor gives an insight into inventory management and retail sales, which are skills that are crucial to success in the design field. 

"At Design Studio, I've been exposed to a broad spectrum of real-world practice opportunities," Doak said. "This internship has already offered me various learning experiences, and I’m excited for what’s next."

Michelle Butler, owner 

Design Studio’s intern programme allows students to contribute meaningfully, bringing fresh ideas and energy to the job. It also helps identify potential future employees who are already familiar with the firm’s processes and culture.

"Our intern programme offers hands-on learning that connects academic study with professional practice," Butler said.

Butler got her own start in the industry working for a design firm while studying for a degree in architecture. Understanding the business, making connections, building a portfolio and seeking feedback are some of the many advantages of work experience, she said.

ABACUS RESTAURANT 
Renee Mosley, intern 

Currently finishing up her associate’s degree in hospitality management at the University College of the Cayman Islands, Mosley is pursuing a culinary career and will start at the renowned Culinary Arts Academy, in Switzerland, this fall. At Abacus, Mosley conducted the “mise en place” prep for meal service, learning the art of plating dishes under time pressure and the value of working within a supportive team.

"What I enjoy most about working in Camana Bay is being exposed to the various types of businesses and employees all around the property, as well as the diverse cuisines among the plethora of restaurants," she said. "Interning at Abacus, I have had the opportunity to visit the sister companies LOCO and KARoo and notice the range of international foods they each uniquely offer."

Rounding out her work experience, Mosley is now gaining exposure to a large hotel environment working in the kitchens at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. 

Markus Mueri, owner 

As the owner of three Camana Bay restaurants, Mueri is keen to inspire the next generation to choose a career in hospitality by giving them the chance to work alongside chefs on a daily basis and learn more about the business from the inside.

"Being on time, ready to work and learn, these are the simple keys to success in a busy restaurant environment," Mueri said.

Mueri began his own journey to becoming a restaurant owner working as a chef in the kitchens at the Sheraton Atlantis Hotel in Zurich, Switzerland.

PWC

Shanti Singh, intern

Shanti Singh studies accounting and management at the University of Bristol, where she says she has gained a secure academic foundation in accounting principles, managerial practices and business strategy. She says her internship at PwC complements her studies by providing practical experiences in real-world scenarios.

"Working alongside professionals allows me to see firsthand how theory can translate into practice at the highest standard," Singh said. "This exposure not only enhances my understanding of complex accounting procedures, but also refines my analytical skills and decision-making abilities."

At PwC, she has completed e-learning training and gained experience using auditing software. She has been involved in planning processes related to engagements, including understanding how audits are structured and executed.

"As I delve further into my internship, I hope to deepen my understanding of complex auditing procedures and methodologies," Singh said. "Moreover, I hope to obtain the ability and confidence to identify and resolve issues that may arise during audits."

Will Hinds, senior manager

PwC's internship programme — formally called the Career Development Programme — provides Caymanian students hands-on experience in the firm, performing real tasks and getting real-time coaching and feedback.

"These opportunities could be just for the summer, but also extend to our scholarship programme and full-time employment possibilities," Hinds said. "At PwC, we believe that Cayman's greatest resource is its people, and that carries into our business, where the cultivation and growth of the firm is reliant on excellent staff, many of whom are Caymanians who joined us through the Career Development Programme. 

Hinds' advice to young people looking for an internship or first full-time job is to be open to opportunities and ask questions.

"Everyone starts somewhere and there is so much that goes into each profession, so acknowledging inexperience and asking questions is the easiest way to grow," he said.

This article was published in the July/August 2024 print edition of Camana bay Times.