From Opportunity to Experience: Nathan Bandelier’s Internship at the BCCEC

Published August 19th, 2026

As part of its commitment to providing young Bahamians with meaningful opportunities to gain practical work experience, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) welcomed Nathan Bandelier as an intern in April 2026.

Nathan, 20, will soon begin his studies in Economics at the University of The Bahamas. His interest in business and economics began at a young age, and his time at the Chamber gave him the opportunity to build on that interest while gaining valuable hands-on experience in a professional environment.

Over the course of his internship from April through August, Nathan supported the Chamber's Trade Manager with the Bahamas Trade Information Portal and assisted with various administrative tasks and Chamber events. He also had the opportunity to contribute to the organization of a Trade Mission to Lagos, Nigeria, giving him exposure to the Chamber's work in facilitating trade and supporting the local business community.

Interestingly, Nathan's journey to the Chamber began with a simple social media video. Created as a way of putting himself out there in hopes of finding an employment opportunity, the video reached much further than he ever expected—including the BCCEC.

As his internship comes to an end, we sat down with Nathan to reflect on his experience, the skills he developed, and the lessons he will carry with him as he begins his university journey.

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Nathan Bandelier. I am 20 years old, and I will be attending the University of The Bahamas, where I will be studying Economics.

I have always been fascinated by the world of business and economics. When I first encountered the subject as an option in middle school, I became interested in how interconnected different aspects of business and economics are in our daily lives and, conceptually, in ways I had never imagined.

2. Your journey to the BCCEC began with a video you shared on social media expressing your interest in finding an opportunity. What inspired you to create that video, and what was your reaction when you learned it had led to an internship with the Chamber?

The opportunity came through my cousin. At the time, she had me do a few advertising readings for her company because she knew I eventually wanted some form of employment. She then came up with the idea of recording a video for social media.

I thought it was a shot in the dark, so I figured I might as well try it and see who it might reach. I never imagined it would reach as many people as it did. Even now, I still receive comments on the video from people wishing me well or sharing similar experiences. I certainly never thought it would reach somewhere like the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and that they would give me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in business.

It was surreal when I first received an email from the Chamber. It was a bit of a shock because I didn't think the video would have that much outreach, but I was very happy to have secured employment.

3. Over the past few months, you've supported our Trade Manager with the Bahamas Trade Information Portal and assisted the Chamber team with a variety of administrative tasks. Looking back on your internship, what have you enjoyed most and what are you most proud of accomplishing?

I would say my biggest accomplishment was assisting with the organization of a Trade Mission to Lagos, Nigeria, as well as helping with a Chamber event.

What I enjoyed most was making call lists for different events and confirming participation. As I continued with those tasks, they became routine. I became more familiar with what I needed to do, the notes I needed to take, and how to keep others in the office informed.

It was my first time experiencing that sense of collaboration in a professional setting, and I am very grateful for the experience.

4. What is the biggest lesson or skill you've gained during your internship that you'll carry with you as you begin your university journey and future career?

During my time at the Chamber, I improved the way I use Microsoft applications such as Word and Excel to organize flyers and information for Chamber records. I also gained experience corresponding with other businesses and making calls. I learned how to quickly ask for the information I needed while remaining professional.

I was very nervous when I made calls for the first time because these were businesses, both large and small, and I didn't want to make a mistake. One of the biggest lessons was gaining insight into the many businesses, both big and small, that collaborate with the Chamber when organizing events and other activities.

5. What advice would you give to other young people who are looking for their first internship or are hoping to create opportunities for themselves?

My advice would be: don't be afraid to accept an opportunity if it presents itself to you. Ask yourself, "What do I have to lose?" Sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there. It may have a greater reach than you could ever imagine.

It may not be your ideal career, but just because something isn't your intended career path doesn't mean you can't learn valuable information and skills that can carry over into your future career.

A Word of Thanks

The BCCEC would like to thank Nathan for his hard work, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn during his time with the Chamber. From taking a chance on a social media video to gaining hands-on experience in business, trade and professional collaboration, Nathan made the most of the opportunity that came his way.

We wish Nathan every success as he begins his studies this fall. We have no doubt that the curiosity, determination and willingness to step outside of his comfort zone that brought him to the Chamber will continue to serve him well in the future.

Best wishes, Nathan, and all the best on your university journey!