A campaign to encourage Bermudians to join the Island's international business sector rather than despising it was unveiled yesterday.

Bermuda International Business Association's local marketing committee chairman Dueane Dill invited the whole community to join in a week-long programme in September themed One Island -- A World of Opportunity .

He admitted Bermuda's international business sector had suffered from an "image problem'' locally. And some people resent the influx of foreigners onto the Island taking jobs, rentals and positions in schools.

Such negative perceptions are often the subject of heated letters to the editor in The Royal Gazette and callers to radio talk shows.

"It is just that perception that we're trying to turn around,'' Mr. Dill said. "The main thrust of the marketing committee is to raise awareness among the community to tell people how they can benefit from the international business sector.'' Research uncovered high levels of friction between some Bermudians and the sector but the aim of the week was to raise awareness of how the fortunes of many locals depended on international business, he said.

BIBA had already heightened the profile of the sector in the community through the first International Business Week which was held last year but now it aimed to "increase the understanding of how it affects locals''.

"Yes, there is an image problem and that is what we're trying to address,'' he said.

Activities will provide residents with the chance to learn more about the sector with a focus on the wide range of opportunities available to take part in the industry directly and indirectly. Young Bermudians can get advice on how to equip themselves to rise to lofty career heights.

Hamilton Mayor William Frith gave his backing to BIBA who are organising International Business Week 1999 in a City Hall ceremony yesterday morning.

And he endorsed the event, vowing full support of the Corporation of Hamilton.

"The City of Hamilton continues to see growth and development from the expansion of international business as an industry, together with the fundamental contribution and support of our local businesses,'' he said.

The sector brought "new economic and employment opportunities for Bermuda and Bermudians''.

"The new office space springing up in and around the City has expanded opportunities for direct employment in the international companies located here as well as indirectly in construction and support services,'' he said.

The Corporation is providing facilities to BIBA for some of the week's events including Harbour Nights activities.

BUSINESS BUC