CAREER OF THE WEEK

Cook, bottle washer and everything else in between is how Simon
Miller jokingly describes his job as a Senior Project Officer at the
National Drug Council in Grand Cayman.

However, the general duties include assisting the Chief Executive
Officer in developing public awareness campaigns, public service
announcements, drug education programmes for the schools and prison,
and research.

Mr Miller has been employed with the NDC since 2000 and works
extensively with inmates at HMP Northward.

"We're running a programme with inmates trying to let them identify
some of the ill effects of drug use and abuse, trying to let them go
through a process where they can choose a healthy and positive
lifestyle instead of using drugs," he said.

Mr Miller said that he presents facts and answers their questions and
concerns, instead of preaching to them, saying they find the latter offensive.

"These are people who have used drugs for a long period of time so
when I tell them about a fact about marijuana or cocaine use they
oftentime challenge me and I'm placed in that situation regularly," he said.

Working for an organisation like this, which has a focus towards the
betterment of the greater community, brings a great enjoyment day in
and day out, knowing that you're part of it, he said.

Anyone interested in this profession must have love for the
community, put their heart and caring nature into it, he recommended.

The National Drug Council also works with the Eagle House and the
CAYS Foundation, and will soon be playing a more active part on the
Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.