Sasheenie Hylton, of the Berkeley Institute, aspires to become an accountant and is now getting a feel for what that career will entail.

As part of a link-up between the Association of International Companies, and Berkeley and CedarBridge Academy, she has a work placement opportunity at FIL Limited, the head office of Fidelity International.

She said: ‘My mentors at Fidelity are teaching me how to complete advanced accounting procedures using Microsoft Excel, explaining the importance of being precise and accurate with my work. I am translating this into my daily life and school work. I’m enjoying sitting in on team and business meetings and learning about my mentor’s career journeys.”

Abic was invited by the Career Pathways co-ordinators from Berkeley and CedarBridge to assist with securing work placements for S3 students who are interested in careers in international business.

For one half-day a week, for 12 weeks, the Department of Education’s career-based training programme provides opportunities for students to experience first-hand what it is like to work in their areas of interest.

Seventeen of Abic’s member companies were able to provide 28 work placements in accounting, IT, HR, insurance claims, underwriting, actuarial and broking, and office administration.

Kalmar Richards, Acting Commissioner of Education, said: “Abic has been extremely consistent with supporting the education and advancement of students in Bermuda through a myriad of programmes, including its Education Awards Programme. This year Abic is continuing with its dedicated outreach to schools by securing work placements for students at Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy.

“Those work placement opportunities enable students to expand their insights and knowledge about international business and our local business community and lay the foundation for invaluable educational and transformational life experiences.”