Disney Cruise Line provides unique opportunities designed to equip and prepare the next generation of Bahamian leaders. Aspiring culinary and maritime professionals from the University of the Bahamas and LJM Maritime Academy recently had the chance to step aboard Disney Cruise Line ships for exclusive tours and insights from the crew about careers at sea.
From Classroom to Galley: Student Chefs Visit Disney Dream
Disney Cruise Line regularly engages students from The University of the Bahamas through a variety of initiatives including the College of Tourism Hospitality, Culinary Arts and Leisure Management (The CALM), which works to inspire the next generation of chefs. Since 2019, Disney Cruise Line has hosted culinary students to learn first-hand about the culinary industry from Disney Cruise Line executive chefs and culinary leaders though in-depth career conversations and behind the scenes galley tours onboard its ships.
In celebration of the University of The Bahamas Culinary Week, students recently had the opportunity to speak with Chef Andras and Chef Kamben aboard the Disney Dream where they learned more about all the possibilities of culinary careers at sea.
As part of the culinary students’ shipboard experience, they participated in Disney Cruise Line’s “Anyone Can Cook” demonstration led by Chef Khemraj and Chef Antoine, where they observed the preparation of a signature dish, learned professional cooking techniques and engaged with a Disney chef to gain insights into the culinary world at sea.
“University of The Bahamas is deeply grateful to Disney Cruise Line,” said Dean Mario Adderly, College of Tourism, Hospitality, Culinary Arts & Leisure Management (The CALM). “For a number of years, in addition to other areas of support, Disney Cruise Line has been a major sponsor of The CALM Week at University of The Bahamas. A beloved highlight of this support is a ship tour for our students. The opportunity allows University of The Bahamas students to see the workings of front of house, back of house and food and beverage operations in real time. This collaboration helps bring classroom learning to life and gives our students invaluable insight into the dynamic careers that await them in the culinary and hospitality industries.”
Future Mariners Explore Careers at Sea
Through a strong relationship with LJM Maritime Academy, Disney Cruise Line supports scholarships and summer programming, which includes welcoming students aboard the fleet to learn about maritime careers and shipboard operations.
Recently, 38 LJM Maritime Academy cadets stepped aboard the Disney Destiny for a ship tour that included meeting with the Engineering Officer for a tour of the ship’s engine room and a visit to the bridge for insight into ship navigation and steering. The tour concluded with a special surprise guest from Captain Mickey Mouse.
Pathways for Learning: From Disney Cruise Line’s Workforce Investments to Creating Magic at Disney Parks
Through collaboration with Bahamian educational institutions, Disney Cruise Line continues to support workforce development across The Bahamas, fostering career pathways and supporting the growth of future leaders and professionals. Disney Cruise Line also works with the University of The Bahamas by investing in the Leading Light Programme, which provides hospitality, management and job-readiness courses at no cost to participants. Initially launched in Eleuthera in 2024, the Leading Light Programme has now expanded to include students in Abaco, reinforcing Disney Cruise Line’s broader commitment to long-term skills development and employment readiness in The Bahamas.
Disney Cruise Line Manager HR Bahamas, Leslie Lopez, plays a key role in bringing these programs to life. “As a Bahamian myself, I understand the meaning of the opportunities provided by Disney to support the career paths of young people in The Bahamas,” shared Leslie. “Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to introducing young professionals from our islands to the hospitality and maritime industries has been incredibly impactful.”
Lopez also played a key role in bringing the first-ever group of Bahamian students to participate in a Disney Program at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Disney Programs provide students and recent graduates with the opportunity for professional and leadership development through Disney’s renowned learning and internship programs, helping prepare the next generation of future careers in hospitality, tourism and beyond.
The Bahamian students gained experience in roles across Walt Disney World Parks & Resorts, including food and beverage, custodial and merchandise. Beyond their roles and day-to-day work, the students connected with cast members and guests from around the world, participated in seminars featuring Disney leaders, gave back through Disney VoluntEARS, explored local Florida highlights and even toured the Disney Cruise Line’s ship, Disney Wish.
Creating Lasting Impact in The Bahamas
Since 1998, Disney Cruise Line has been committed to serving the port communities in which it sails around the world, including The Bahamas. While introducing countless families to the vibrant culture and natural beauty of The Bahamas, Disney Cruise Line prioritizes making meaningful community impact through a range of education, youth and local initiatives, reflecting long-term efforts making a positive impact across the islands that strengthens community connections and creates opportunities. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line news and community initiatives in The Bahamas, visit DisneyExperiences.com or Disney Cruise Line Crew & Community on Facebook.