CIBC Caribbean opens doors to Jamaica’s future banking leaders through Summer Internship Programme 2026

For nine outstanding university students, this summer marks far more than the start of an internship—it is the beginning of a journey that could shape the trajectory of their careers.

Selected from a regional pool of more than 3,000 applicants, the interns are among just 73 young professionals chosen to participate in CIBC Caribbean’s 2026 Summer Internship Programme, one of the Caribbean’s most competitive early talent initiatives. Representing The University of the West Indies (UWI), the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech), and the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), the interns are gaining invaluable hands-on experience while working alongside industry professionals across several areas of the bank.

The programme reflects CIBC Caribbean’s commitment to developing the next generation of Caribbean leaders by providing meaningful work experience, mentorship and professional development opportunities that bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace.

Importantly, the internship programme has also proven to be a pathway to long-term careers within the organisation.

Among this year’s success stories is Fitz-Ali Nelson, a recent graduate of The University of the West Indies, who recently transitioned from intern to full-time employee within the Human Resources Department, demonstrating that the programme is designed not only to provide practical experience but also to identify and develop future talent for the bank.

Rochelle James, Head of Human Resources, CIBC Caribbean Jamaica, said investing in young professionals is one of the bank’s most important commitments.

“At CIBC Caribbean, we see our internship programme as much more than a summer placement. It is an opportunity to discover exceptional talent, invest in the next generation of professionals and provide young people with meaningful experiences that help prepare them for successful careers. We want our interns to feel challenged, supported and inspired, while giving them every opportunity to learn, contribute and grow.”

She noted that the programme reflects the bank’s broader philosophy of developing people from within.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of this programme is seeing interns evolve into valued members of our team. Fitz-Ali’s journey from intern to full-time employee is a wonderful example of what is possible when talent, commitment and opportunity come together. We are always looking for individuals who share our values, demonstrate curiosity and embrace learning, and this programme continues to be an important part of building our future workforce.”

For many of the interns, the experience has already exceeded expectations.

Aaliyah Dreckett, a final-year University of the West Indies student assigned to the Personal and Business Banking team, said the internship has been the continuation of a journey that began with CIBC Caribbean’s One-Day Internship Experience last year.

“Being selected for the One-Day Internship Experience in 2025 gave me my first glimpse into what it would be like to work at CIBC Caribbean, and that opportunity ultimately led me here. Every day I feel valued, inspired and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. I have already learned lessons that will remain with me throughout my career, and I am excited to continue making the most of this incredible opportunity.”

For Michael Hanson, a third-year UWI student pursuing Banking and Finance and Economics and attached to the Corporate Banking team, the internship has expanded his understanding of the industry.

“I feel privileged to have been chosen as a CIBC intern. Working within Corporate Banking has given me valuable hands-on experience while exposing me to the many opportunities available within the financial sector. It has broadened my perspective of what is possible for my career and strengthened the connection between what I learn in the classroom and the world of work.”

Technology intern Sasheika Henry, who is pursuing a degree in Networking with Cybersecurity at UCC, described the experience as both empowering and inspiring.

“Being chosen as an intern at CIBC Caribbean has allowed me to become part of a great team that truly feels like family. Every day I am learning new things, building confidence in my abilities and gaining valuable experience in my field of study. The experience has strengthened my passion for technology and I look forward to continuing to grow.”

Kevaughn Reid, who recently completed his degree in Operations Management at UWI and is attached to the Human Resources team, said the internship has challenged him in the best possible way.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to intern at CIBC Caribbean. Every day has introduced me to new experiences that have expanded my knowledge and pushed me outside my comfort zone. That growth has been invaluable, and I am excited about everything I will continue to learn during the remainder of the programme.”

Returning intern Anushka McTyson, who is pursuing Accounting, Banking and Finance at UTech, believes the programme continues to build her confidence.

“This is my second internship with CIBC Caribbean, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I have gained valuable hands-on experience, worked with supportive teams and had opportunities to contribute meaningfully. The experience has strengthened both my technical skills and my confidence as I prepare for my professional career.”

For Brandon Roberts, a UWI graduate with a degree in Mathematics of Finance, the internship has provided a unique opportunity to experience the banking industry from the inside.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to intern at CIBC Caribbean and gain valuable insight into the inner workings of such a respected organisation. The support of my supervisor and colleagues has allowed me to develop new skills, broaden my understanding of the industry and appreciate the importance of teamwork and professionalism in the workplace.”

As the financial services industry continues to evolve, CIBC Caribbean remains committed to nurturing the region’s brightest minds by creating opportunities that encourage innovation, develop leadership and prepare young professionals for successful careers.

For the interns spending their summer at CIBC Caribbean Jamaica, the experience represents far more than a temporary assignment. It is an opportunity to build relationships, develop confidence, sharpen their skills and lay the foundation for careers that may one day see them become the next generation of leaders within the organisation.