Six young Bermudians have been given a taste of working in the high-tech world of information technology after graduating from a charity summer programme.The students completed 12-week internships with companies signed up to the Technology Leadership Forum (TLF), a charity that seeks out local talent to work in the industry.As well as classroom sessions taught by industry professionals, the interns worked on a team project developing a mobile application for the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo and conducted fieldwork as members of staff at participating companies.The 2013 TLF Internship Programme graduates were Angelika Wilson, Beckett Simmons, Brittany Easton, Chris Philips, Sabur Taalib Bey and Mareliano Jones.At a graduation ceremony on Tuesday, TLF chairman Dion Tucker said: “Over the last five years, the TLF has given talented students interested in IT the opportunity to bridge the gap between academics and the realities of a career in technology.“Our approach effectively provides for a better prepared and realistic entry into the workforce for young Bermudians. The TLF believes that we must continue to play this critical role in the development of our young people. It not only benefits them, it also benefits all companies and organisations by providing access to a well-trained workforce. We are creating opportunities today for prosperity tomorrow.”Fort Knox CEO Troy Symonds added: “Our information communication technology (ICT) industry and the growth of this sector is always dependent on the ‘next generation’ to seize the opportunities that only they can recognise, and drive these opportunities to create wealth and reputation for our Island. You — the next generation — play a pivotal role in sustaining the dream that Bermuda’s ICT products, services, skill sets and work ethic are second to none and superior to our competitors”.The TLF was founded six years ago because of an identified need for qualified Bermudian talent in the ICT field. The registered charity is run in partnership between private and public sector technology companies and organisations. The TLF’s prime objectives are to encourage dialogue, address issues, propose action steps, mentoring and to be a networking group among peers.According to a TLF spokesman, one of the key benefits of the programme is the networking opportunities it provides for the students and the local ICT partners. Additionally, the partners know that students graduating from the programme can become beneficial members of the company’s workforce with experience and hands-on training.Before presenting the graduates with their certificates, Economic Development Minister Grant Gibbons said: “The reality is in today’s world the use of technology is a critical factor in the success of any business, large or small. The 2013 TLF Internship Programme’s graduates are an example of the type of intellectual capital that Bermuda requires to continue to draw and sustain the business community.“Technology enables us to further develop our sophisticated business environment and also encourages our entrepreneurs to think outside the confines of 21 square miles to offer services around the world.”For more information on the Technology Leadership Forum Internship Programme, visit www.TLF.bm.