Disney Cruise Line has appointed Bernadette Sweeting-Miller, a native of South Eleuthera, as a member of its public relations team, based in Eleuthera, Bahamas.
With more than 20 years of administrative experience in various government support roles and local non-profit organizations, Sweeting-Miller will head the Disney Cruise Line in Eleuthera and will be the main contact for those interested in learning more about the new Lighthouse Point, Florida destination.
Joey Gaskins, Disney Cruise Line's regional director of public affairs, stated that Sweeting-Miller brings "invaluable community relations, a deep understanding of our community and rich culture, and a genuine commitment to her home, Eleuthera."
In this newly created position as DCL's public relations officer, Sweeting-Miller will serve as a liaison for members of the Eleuthera community, Bahamians wishing to join the DCL team, or local businesses interested in supplying 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 on Eleuthera.
“It means so much to me to join a company that is committed to making an impact on the community I’ve called home since I was a little girl,” said Sweeting-Miller. “I look 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 of Lighthouse Point.”
Disney stated that Lighthouse Point will create sustainable economic opportunities for Bahamians, protect the area's natural beauty, highlight Bahamian culture, and help strengthen the Eleuthera community. The first ships are expected to call in the summer of 2024.
The company has been calling at the Bahamas since its inaugural 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 DCL's operations are currently estimated to contribute more than $70 million annually to the GDP.
DCL has also committed to filling all positions at Castaway Cay with Bahamians from diverse disciplines, with opportunities for training and advancement.
Lighthouse Point is expected to create more than 300 construction-related jobs, more than double the number of jobs DCL pledged to create in its agreement.
