by Stuart Roberts
International Business is often described as the bedrock upon which Bermuda’s economy is built. The Association of Bermuda International Companies also believes IB impacts the community in other important ways.
Wayne Smith, executive director of Abic, said: “The multiplier effect says it all. Each new job creates 1.33 additional new jobs in Bermuda. We work to make Bermuda a domicile where international companies come and choose to stay, because they will have qualified talent, a community that welcomes their presence here, a business environment that is internationally competitive and evolves with changing times.”
But why would an expatriate worker want to live, work and play in Bermuda?
“It’s a great opportunity to work in a thriving business environment,” Mr Smith said.
“We are in international business, but we are really in the lifestyle business. Bermuda provides an excellent quality of life.”
From corporate sponsorship of important community events, to volunteering for local charities, IB helps the community in a myriad of ways.
“There are lots of community initiatives in which international companies and their staff participate,” Mr Smith said.
“Some employees volunteer for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. They also provide mentorship for scholarship awardees in the Abic education awards initiative. Last year, Abic gave out $800,000 in scholarships to almost 30 students so they can get into university. We do it every year and
over the last nearly 50 years we have given out about $20 million in scholarships to 830 people. You cannot overstate the value of that.”
Environmental stewardship is another important way that IB impacts the local community.
“We have an initiative with Keep Bermuda Beautiful where Abic member companies and their employees clean up sections of the Railway Trail,” Mr Smith said.
“In addition to KBB, other local sustainability projects in which IB is greatly involved includes the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Project.
“The Bermuda Government is working with the private sector and the Waitt Institute, and of course, the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. They, in conjunction with BOPP, are working earnestly to preserve our magnificent oceans. International companies also invest heavily in the Bermuda Zoological Society Aquarium Museum and Zoo.”
Some 70 per cent of the Zoological Society’s annual support comes from international companies
and their staff.
If you’re a guest worker about to experience Bermuda Day for the first time, top tips include having a good night’s sleep and a full breakfast.
“The first thing a guest worker should do when they come to work in Bermuda is to learn about Bermuda’s history and why it is the way it is,” Mr Smith said.
“Once a person understands Bermuda’s cultural heritage, I would encourage them to get a good night’s rest, get up early and take in the Bermuda Day Half Marathon.”
Many countries have sporting events where people line up on the side of the road to cheer on the competitors.
But Mr Smith noted the Bermudian iteration of this is unique.
“It is special because you have food stations and families camped out along the race and parade routes, cheering for runners, cyclists and parade participants,” he said.
“It’s a unique experience unlike anything you would find anywhere else in the world.”
He added: “Also, have a good breakfast because Bermudians love to entertain and the local cocktails are abundant. I encourage all visitors and guest workers to take it all in, all of it.
“Take in the parade, the floats, the music and the food, and have yourself an amazing Bermuda day.
“Bermudians really are some of the most friendly, hospitable people in the world.”
