M y name is Dario Richards and I am completing a Master of Science, Integration Studies, at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. One of the requirements of the programme was an internship. As a result, I had the privilege of working at the Caribbean Center for Administrative Development (CARICAD. My experience at CARICAD was well-rounded. In my estimation, the greatest value came from the spontaneous and intentional times of mentorship and coaching I received from the senior staff. Coupled with this, the various assignments I worked on enhanced my technical skills and provided opportunities for me to think critically and creatively about applying integration theories to address the day-to-day challenges CARICAD faced. Some of the assignments I worked on included creating a Country Profile of social and economic indicators for all member states and critically analysing and responding to new initiatives in the region, such as the CARICOM Results-Based Management system. Additionally, I participated in webinars and workshops, which significantly contributed to my development. Dario Richards Furthermore, participating in this internship has cemented my interest in leadership development, with a focus on the public service. Prior to this internship, I was still contemplating the aspect of regional integration that I wanted to concentrate on in the Caribbean. I was not sure how my interests in leadership development could contribute to the integration efforts in the Caribbean. However, my time at CARICAD reinforced the importance of public sector transformation for the strengthening of regional integration and the holistic development of the region. As a matter of fact, I am now convinced that the public service is the ceiling of development in any country. In other words, a nation’s growth, development, innovation and global success are determined by the quality and capacity of its public service. This has reinforced the value of leadership development for leading public sector transformation. My time at CARICAD was a tremendous success and a pivotal step in my journey. In many ways, this internship has exceeded my expectations. The workplace culture at CARICAD embodies the standard required to transform the Caribbean public sector into a productive, outcome-based community, where workers feel valued and are motivated to work effectively and efficiently. Although I was an intern, I felt that my presence and opinions were valued, and I enjoyed the autonomy and trust extended to me to complete my assignments. CARICAD has provided me with significant clarity as it relates to my next steps. Upon completing my degree, I want to focus my attention on public sector transformation across the region. I believe my time at CARICAD contributed in some way to the development of the Caribbean and it is my intention to continue to contribute to our growth as a region. With these snippets alone, I would definitely recommend future internships at CARICAD. 12
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