Scotiabank kicks off its World of Work Program this month; a four week summer internship program for secondary and tertiary level students. Seventeen students, currently enrolled at the University of the West Indies and Community College, were the first set of participants chosen for this year’s program that gives them the opportunity to work in various customer service and back office roles throughout Scotiabank’s local banking network.
The World of Work Program started in a few of the island’s secondary schools in 1990, and has since evolved to include tertiary institutions. Participants gain much needed work experience, and earn a weekly stipend during the Program.
Scotiabank Director of Credit Solutions-Eastern Caribbean, Victor Boyce, participated in the World of Work Program in 1993 when there were only five or six program participants. At the time he was in 5th form at Coleridge and Parry. Today, he is based in St. Lucia and has many glowing remarks about the Program:
“I do not think that I would be working at Scotiabank today if it had not been for the World of Work Program. It is an excellent way to get valuable work experience, especially if you are interested in a career in financial services.”
Giving sound advice for those who have been chosen to participate, Victor added:
“When I participated in the Program, I did a good job, showing initiative, and going beyond the call of duty to ensure that I stood out and left a lasting impression. Participants are encouraged to do the same because, after I left school and was looking for a job, my mentors remembered me and offered me my first ‘real’ job as a Teller. I have been able to work my way to the director level following management training, and have benefitted from opportunities within the Bank, both in Canada and now again in the region.”
About Scotiabank
Scotiabank is one of North America’s premier financial institutions and Canada’s most international bank. With more than 80,000 employees, Scotiabank and its affiliates serve some 19 million customers in more than 55 countries around the world. Scotiabank offers a broad range of products and services including personal, commercial, corporate and investment banking. With assets of $660 billion (as at April 30, 2012), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto (BNS) and New York Exchanges (BNS). For more information please visit www.scotiabank.com.
For further information: Nicola Greaves (246) 431-3102 nicola.greaves@scotiabank.com
