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Eleuthera native joins Disney Cruise Line's public affairs team

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Bernadette Sweeting-Miller looks forward to working on behalf of Disney Cruise Line to support local businesses and involve Bahamians in the development and operations of Lighthouse Point
Disney Cruise Line appointed South Eleuthera native Bernadette Sweeting-Miller to its public affairs team, based in Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

With more than 20 years of administrative experience in a variety of roles supporting government and local nonprofit organizations, Sweeting-Miller will manage Disney Cruise Line’s Eleuthera office and serve as the primary contact for those interested in learning more about the new Lighthouse Point destination.

Joey Gaskins, regional public affairs director, Disney Cruise Line, said Sweeting-Miller brings 'invaluable community relationships, a deep understanding of our community and rich culture and a genuine commitment to her home of Eleuthera.'

Community liaison and engagement

In this newly created role as DCL’s public affairs manager, Sweeting-Miller will serve as the liaison for community members in Eleuthera, Bahamians who would like to join the DCL team or local businesses interested in providing goods and services to support the operation of the cruise line’s second island destination.

Sweeting-Miller will also lead community engagement initiatives, special events and Disney VoluntEARS programs in Eleuthera.

'It means so much to me to join a company that is committed to making an impact in the community that I have called home ever since I was a child,' Sweeting-Miller said. 'I’m looking forward to working on behalf of Disney Cruise Line to support local businesses and involve Bahamians in the development and operations of the new island destination at Lighthouse Point.'

Disney said Lighthouse Point will create sustainable economic opportunities for Bahamians, protect the natural beauty of the site, highlight Bahamian culture and help strengthen the Eleuthera community. The first ships are expected to call in summer 2024.

75% of Disney cruises visit The Bahamas

DCL has been calling in The Bahamas since its maiden voyage 25 years ago. Approximately 75% of its cruises make at least one stop in the country, all five of its ships are registered in The Bahamas and it is estimated that DCL operations currently contribute more than $70m toward GDP annually.

DCL also has committed to filling all positions on Castaway Cay with Bahamians across a range of disciplines with opportunities for training and advancement.

Lighthouse Point is expected to create more than 300 construction-related roles, more than doubling the number of jobs DCL committed to in its heads of agreement.

Those interested in being involved in the construction work should contact American Bridge, the design-builder for the project, by emailing [email protected]. Vendors and suppliers interested in providing goods and services may contact [email protected].