Jennifer Phillips (left) with Former PLP MP Renee Ming

News Release: Hamilton, Bermuda – As part of the Cabinet Office’s overseas internship programme this summer, two Bermudians interned with the Government of Bermuda within the overseas office in Brussels, Belgium.

The interns, Maxanne Caines and Jennifer Phillips, spent thirteen weeks learning about the work of the recently established Brussels Office. There, they gained insight to the importance of Bermuda’s relationship with the European Union and the overseas office in London whilst assimilating into European culture.

The interns had the opportunity to work and attend meetings and events hosted by the Overseas Countries and Territories Association (OCTA) at the European Commission as well as the Brussels Economic Forum and the launch of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s UK Women’s Network in Brussels.

In addition to attending meetings with various representatives from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the interns were able to shadow officials in the UK representation for the EU in Brussels and at Steptoe & Johnson, a prestigious law firm that advises the Government of Bermuda on EU regulations.

Maxanne Caines

Maxanne Caines is a graduate of Oakwood University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a minor in History and is currently completing a Masters in International relations with a secondary focus in Conflict and Security at the University of Kent in Brussels, Belgium.

Jennifer Phillips is a graduate of Dalhousie University with a BA in History and Journalism and recently completed an MSc in Marketing Management at the University of Westminster in London, United Kingdom.

Premier David Burt said: “I am very pleased that Ms Caines and Ms Phillips had the opportunity to intern in our Brussels office this summer. They both gained valuable knowledge and understanding of Bermuda’s relationship with the European Union and they got a better understanding of international policies that affect Bermuda.

“The renewal of this highly beneficial internship programme and the addition of placements in our overseas offices fulfils our promise to ensure that Bermudians get the experience needed to compete in the global economy.”