Bermudian cruise ship worker Denika Outerbridge has been praised by Government as an example of a young person making the most of an opportunity.

Ms Outerbridge, a 22-year-old Bermuda College graduate, was one of seven young Bermudians who found work through a partnership between the Ministry of Home Affairs and Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL).

She started working on the Norwegian Gem last October as a restaurant steward, but was promoted to assistant waiter within a matter of weeks.

Ms Outerbridge said she took part in an Information Session organised by NCL and the Department of Workforce Development last July and received an offer of employment around a week later.

Now back on the Island, she said she is set to start work on board the Norwegian Sky on August 11, after which she plans to pursue a degree in business and hospitality management.

“To this day, I’m glad that I took advantage of this opportunity,” Ms Outerbridge said. “Coming into this experience, I really didn’t know what to expect.

“I had heard different things about working on a cruise ship but in life I have learned not to let others’ opinions on things stop me from doing what I want to do. Plus I think it’s better to just experience things first-hand because everyone is different.

“This has been an experience of a lifetime. I came without any experience in my position and now I am leaving with plenty. I’ve met so many people from so many different countries and learned about different cultures — memories which will definitely be with me forever.”

Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy hailed Ms Outerbridge as a Bermudian success story, saying: “Denika is the prime example of a young person seizing an opportunity and exceeding expectations. Her positive and pleasant attitude as well as her commendable work ethic undoubtedly makes her an asset to any employer and I wish her the best of luck in the future.”