NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest announced that 17-year-old Octavia Green of Eight Mile Rock, Grand Bahama, is the recipient of the Bahamas Development Bank's (BDB) Warren Logan Rolle Apprenticeship Program award during a press conference at the Bank’s Headquarters, Thursday, December 12, 2019.

The DPM explained that as part of the BDB’s 40^th Anniversary, it has developed the Apprenticeship Program in order to cultivate the next generation of Bahamian leaders by supporting the ambitions of the youth of today.

“Under the Program, the BDB will provide full tuition and fees for a high school graduate to attend the University of The Bahamas.  The apprentice will have the opportunity to work in the Bank in a paid position and gain exposure to develop skills in finance economics, accounting and business administration.”

He added that in addition to strong academic qualifications the selected candidate had to demonstrate a passion for national development.

DPM Turnquest said Miss Green exemplifies these desired qualities and ambitions and has shown maturity and focus beyond her years. 

She is an active member of her community who has sought out avenues for learning and servant leadership in programs such as Junior Achievement, the Grand Bahama Local Government Junior Council, CFAL, Junior Investors Program and the Eight Mile Rock School Cooperative Society.

The DPM explained that the Program’s namesake, Warren Logan Rolle, served as the Bank’s first Managing Director from 1978 to 1988.  He also served as Financial Secretary between 1990 and 1993.  Mr. Rolle was on hand for the presentation.

Managing Director of the Bahamas Development Bank, Dave S. Smith noted that the Bank designed the apprenticeship program to target young people like Miss Green who are academically sound, challenged, and deserving of a “hand up”. 

Mr. Smith said, “Octavia displays an indomitable spirit and so did Mr. Warren Logan Rolle during his tenure with the BDB.  She has plans and in speaking with her it is impossible to walk-away and not appreciate her passion to be an example not only to her brothers and sisters but young Bahamians throughout the archipelago."

Miss Green said she was overflowing with gratitude and appreciation to the BDB and its Managing Director for the golden opportunity to further her education as well as receive exposure and experience in the banking and finance profession.

 

Chief ALIV Officer, Damian Blackburn also attended the press conference, and presented Miss Green with a cell phone during the short ceremony.