The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) has successfully concluded its 2026 Tourism Education Summer Internship Programme, providing 20 students with valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the diverse career opportunities available within the Territory’s tourism and hospitality industry. Photo: BVITB

Some of the students who successfully concluded the 2026 Tourism Education Summer Internship Programme. Photo: BVITB

Highlighting the success of the programme, BVITBFC Product Director Mrs Vionie Pickering said: “We are pleased to see the growing enthusiasm and participation among students in the Tourism Education Summer Internship Programme. The initiative builds on the foundation students receive through tourism education in school by providing them with real-world experience within some of our leading resorts and yacht charter operations.

"This practical exposure allows them to better understand the diverse career opportunities available within the industry and is an important step in encouraging our young people to consider rewarding careers in tourism.”

Conducted during July and August, the programme connected students with leading tourism industry partners, allowing them to gain practical workplace experience, develop professional skills and build a greater understanding of the many career and entrepreneurial pathways available within tourism.

The 2026 programme represents a significant expansion from the previous year, when ten students participated in the initiative. This year, students were placed at Peter Island Resort, Scrub Island, Nanny Cay, The Moorings, Little Dix Bay Resort and Necker Island.

Throughout their placements, interns were exposed to a variety of departments and operational areas, including Front of House, Reception and Reservations, Marine and Boatyard Operations, Engineering, Customer Service, and Food and Beverage. Working alongside experienced tourism professionals, the students observed day-to-day operations, interacted with guests and customers, and gained practical insight into the different roles that collectively contribute to delivering exceptional visitor experiences.

As part of the programme, each student received $1,000 upon successful completion of their internship placement. The financial component recognised the students’ time, commitment and contribution while complementing the professional development and learning opportunities provided through their placements.

The students participating in the 2026 programme were:

July 2026

• Peter Island Resort: Lyannah Turnbull and D’Andre McSheen

• Scrub Island: Kayla Smith

• Nanny Cay: Rakim Ashton, J’adore Turnbull and Malachai Thomas

• The Moorings: Daniel Prakash and Tkhoy John

• Little Dix Bay Resort: John O’Neal and Nara George

• Necker Island: Briana Henry and Marquis Sam

August 2026

• Scrub Island: Brenique Dean

• Nanny Cay: Mary Joseph, Keyanna Sweeney and Caleb Toussaint

• The Moorings: Ayden Tyson and Trisson Mills

• Necker Island: Bree Henry and Dquanye Drew

The programme forms part of the BVITBFC’s ongoing commitment to educating, exposing and inspiring the next generation of tourism professionals and entrepreneurs. By providing young Virgin Islanders with direct access to industry environments, the initiative helps participants develop workplace skills, confidence, professional relationships and a greater appreciation for the breadth of opportunities within the tourism sector.

The BVITBFC extends its sincere appreciation to Peter Island Resort, Scrub Island, Nanny Cay, The Moorings, Little Dix Bay Resort and Necker Island for their partnership and investment in the programme. Their willingness to open their doors to students and provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences was instrumental to the success of the 2026 initiative.

Through their mentorship, expertise and commitment, these industry partners are helping to prepare young Virgin Islanders to become tourism professionals and entrepreneurs who will contribute to the sustainable growth and development of the Territory’s tourism industry.

The BVITBFC looks forward to building on the success of the Tourism Education Summer Internship Programme and continuing to strengthen the connection between the Territory’s young people and its tourism industry.