TSTT molding future leaders through Vacation Internship Programme

“This programme allows young adults the opportunity to gain work experience in their area of study which in turn can assist them in building essential skills such as time management, career management and customer service. Throughout this process, we not only contributing significantly to the development of our country’s youth, but creating TSTT ambassadors at our institutions of higher learning.” Also in attendance were prominent and respected TSTT employees who volunteered to become mentors to the aspiring interns during the six-week internship programme.

Melisa Balroop, who volunteered for the first time this year said she was heartened to give of her time and share her expertise with the students as they are the nation’s future leaders.

“I’m close to 18 years of service with TSTT and this is a great opportunity to give back and be capable to help a young person develop themselves. I look forward to the programme as I believe it will boost their self-confidence and allow them to apply their field of study in a real life setting so that they can become well-rounded individuals for the world of work.” The interns, who have been placed in various departments throughout the Company, looked ready for the task ahead and were all smiles as they eagerly participated in the interactive orientation session. They also vowed to make the best of the rare opportunity to work alongside some of the brightest talent in the telecommunications sector.

Alex Antoine, 18, a second year Computing student at the University of the Southern Caribbean, who is originally from Tobago but resides in Maracas St Joseph, was in high praise of the programme which he said will give him the opportunity to gain hands on experience and put his skills to the test.

“I am expecting to gain experience and be part of a large organisation so that I can put what I have learnt in my field into practice. I’m also hoping that there is an opportunity to work with TSTT outside of the internship programme as they are the number one service provider in the country.” Twenty-year-old University of the West Indies student, Christine Burnley, echoed similar sentiments. Currently in her third year pursuing International Relations, the Maloney resident said she was happy to see that TSTT took such a keen interest in helping to mold the nation’s youth.

“I’m a very shy person but in my field of study I will need to break out of my shell. I’m glad that one of the things that we will be taught is self-confidence because I’ll need to be comfortable with public speaking so I’m really looking forward to that aspect of the programme. I really have to say thank you to TSTT for remembering the youth and helping us to grow and succeed.” And in her closing remarks, Linton encouraged the students to maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude in the office.

“Make a valuable contribution, have a voice, cultivate team spirit and an environment of trust and remember to persevere even when your ideas meet resistance,” she said