NCB to build new house for senior who lost home in fire

This article first appeared in the Cayman Compass.

A charred and weathered family bible was all that Marva Bodden salvaged from the fire that destroyed her home in George Town.

On a warm morning this week, she leafed through the tattered pages to find a favourite quote.

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

In the three years since the fire, the 79-year-old has been through some trying times.

She was initially homeless, staying on the sofas of family members at a time when fear of COVID-19 was rife throughout the community. 

Now she lives in a cramped but comfortable converted shipping container in the yard of the fire-ruined property on Diaz Lane.

Through those times, she says, she never gave up hope.

And as construction workers marked out the red outline of a planned new home in the dusty ground where the old buildings once stood, she was able to see her faith begin to be vindicated.

Rebuilding

Charity Acts of Random Kindness has coordinated a group of community donors and volunteers and raised funds to begin building a new ‘tiny home’ on the site.

It is the second full-build project for ARK, which helps renovate unsafe housing for the most vulnerable in the community.

There’s a long way to go, but once the project is complete, Bodden will have a new house, painted white with pink trim, funded and built by the Cayman community.

“I just feel joy,” she said, as she watched preliminary work begin on the land where she has lived since she was a child.

Additions and repairs had been made over the years, but the original structure, built by her father in the 1930s, had stayed in place till the fire in 2020.

“I lived here all my life,” she said recently, recalling a sandy road, with periwinkles blossoming in the verges, that ran down to the sea, by Mr. Arthur’s shop.

“That’s where we learned to swim – the big children used to throw us in and say ‘swim or drown’,” she laughed.

“I just love it here. I can’t even begin to tell you how much it has changed.”

Even now, she still manages to swim at the same spot every few weeks. 

“This is where all her memories are of her family, her children, her grandchildren,” said Tara Nielsen, of ARK, whose Cayman CASA project focuses on helping people hold on to their family land and rebuild homes where they have roots.

“She’s just woven into this community here like the trees and the periwinkles,” said Nielsen. “That’s why it was so vitally important for us to rebuild right here.”

Fire destroyed almost everything

Bodden was sitting with her 2-year-old grandchild in the home, when the fire broke out. She lost everything in the blaze – all her clothes, her belongings and treasured family photo albums.

Just the bible, handed down from her mother, survived.

“I came back the next day and this were lying on the floor, not got a burn on it. I wiped it off and put it in the sun for a couple of days and it’s fine,” she said of the bible, which she keeps on her bedside stand.

ARK plans to use the same basic design as its last tiny home – a strategy which will allow for expedited planning approval. 

The project is being sponsored by 1503 Property Group, NCB Group, ARTEX and ARCO architectural firm as well as donations from NCB Group’s  construction partners.

Workers from NCB Group were onsite last week to remove the foundations of the old home and mark out the perimeter of the new project. The tiny homes – which ARK hopes can eventually be used all over Cayman for families in need – are pre-designed and quick to build, meaning Bodden could be in her new home within just a few months.

“We are praying to get her in by Christmas,” said Nielsen.

Matthew Wight, Managing Director at NCB Group, said its multiple businesses and industry partnerships would help keep costs low.

“We are so proud to partner with ARK to build a safe and comfortable home for Miss Marva,” he said.

“Our aim is to build as much of Miss Marva’s Tiny Home as possible through the donation of materials and equipment, volunteer hours and the support of our valued partners, to save ARK’s funding for the next worthwhile project.”

NCB Group launches Action Plan for Sustainability

The Cayman Islands’ leading sustainable developer cements its commitment to sustainability by formalising internal environmental programmes.

Following NCB Group’s 20-year anniversary in 2021, the sustainably-minded developer is now planning for the next 20+ years, which includes bringing its founding mission for sustainability back to the core of the business with the launch of a new, green initiative.

Championed by a group of NCB volunteers, known as the Green Team, the internal initiative aims to build sustainable habits from the ground up by equipping the group’s more than 100 staff members with more of the tools and resources they need to foster daily actions inspired by the company’s eco-consciously minded approach to development.

NCB Group's OLEA combines sustainability and community living

Speaking with the Green Team volunteers, they share their excitement for the new Action Plan for Sustainability and outline how it fits in with NCB’s greater mission to “build with Cayman’s future in mind.”

What is the mission and purpose of the Action Plan for Sustainability?

From the get-go, NCB has sought to build properties that are not only beautiful to look at but also meet the needs of the Cayman community for many generations to come.

We have always worked to be at the forefront of sustainable development and construction practices, which has meant growing our team to include experts in renewable energy, geothermal cooling, and sustainability.

The Action Plan for Sustainability is an extension of these goals, and seeks to create a working culture that instinctively prioritises sustainability.

The Green Team is supporting this by putting initiatives in place to help educate and guide NCB employees on sustainable practices and introduce internal programmes that encourage eco-conscious habits throughout our offices.

Why did NCB decide to create a Green Team? How does the Green Team fit into NCB’s vision for Cayman’s future?

At NCB, we understand sustainable growth can only come from creating a long-term plan that reviews and addresses our lasting effect on the ecological, human, and economic environment.

A family walks along the promenade at SOLARA, one of NCB Group's most sustainable communities

The Green Team helps implement this plan across our 10 service lines to ensure we are collectively working towards the same goals.

What are some of the critical goals of the Action Plan? What are you currently working on?

Each quarter, the Action Plan will tackle a different aspect of sustainability that starts to lay the foundation for long-term internal initiatives that will make a tangible difference to our company’s environmental footprint.

To formally kick off the initiative, at the beginning of the year we launched a new monthly, internal newsletter that highlights opportunities to get involved in community happenings and provides resources on sustainability.

Now we are working on a series of projects that will help reinvigorate NCB’s working spaces through natural elements, such as inspiring art displays, dedicated green spaces, and bringing locally sourced food and beverages into our staff kitchens.

Still to come are internal composting and recycling programmes, as we seek to reduce the environmental impact created by our offices.

Finally, we will be working with representatives from across all NCB divisions to create clear sustainability metrics for our suppliers, to ensure their environmental, social, and economic impacts are aligned with our goals.

NCB Group will create new sustainability metrics for our suppliers, to ensure their environmental, social, and economic impacts are aligned with our goals

Why are you excited to be a part of the Green Team?

To be an active part of NCB’s mission to be a leader in sustainability for Cayman is a gratifying feeling.

NCB’s eco-conscious ethos sets us apart in the local industry, and we’re excited to work closely with our senior management team to develop and improve the company’s sustainable practices.

With everything we have planned, there are many opportunities for NCB employees to make a difference within our company and the wider community and we’re excited to see the results later this year.

If NCB’s sustainably-minded approach to business aligns with your mission to lead a greener lifestyle, learn more about how you can contract us to work on an upcoming project, invest in one of our sustainable developments or join our growing team of passionate people.

NCB celebrates continued success of inaugural scholarship student

Supporting the next generation of Caymanians interested in a career in the construction and development industry has always been an integral part of NCB Group’s commitment to building with Cayman’s future in mind.

As part of this promise, in 2019 NCB founded the NCB Group Scholarship, a scholarship programme that provides budding Caymanians looking to kickstart their career in the industry with a financial contribution towards their tertiary education and on the job experience during their school breaks.

As inaugural NCB Group Scholarship recipient, Jada Watson, reaches the midway point of her time at the University of South Florida we sat down with her and Shahida Ebanks, NCB’s HR Manager, to discuss the variety of career opportunities available in construction and development and why further education in this industry is helping to keep Cayman on top of innovation.

Inaugural NCB Group Scholarship recipient, Jada Watson.
Inaugural NCB Group Scholarship recipient, Jada Watson.

Shahida, why has NCB always put such an emphasis on investing in the next generation?

Shahida: Over the last 20 years, NCB has sought to offer local students pathways into construction and development through internship and apprenticeship opportunities. We’ve seen the industry challenge them to improve their skillsets continuously and create excellent leaders within our company, all the while providing Caymanians with an opportunity to help support the growth of their community through our sustainable development projects.

As a business, NCB also benefits from having fresh ideas and innovators. With their aptitude for technology and ready and able mindset, students fresh from school have brought some exciting suggestions and proposals to our table.

In 2019 we awarded the first NCB Group Scholarship to Jada after recognising the talent and passion for project management that she displayed on the job as a Coordinator. We are proud to see her continued success at University, despite the challenging times.

Jada, tell us what sparked your interest in taking your studies further?

Jada: Before going to college, I worked at NCB for a year, starting as a receptionist and moving up to a coordinator. As a coordinator, I went on job sites, completed inspections, learned about electricity and plumbing, and watched construction take place. I found each stage of the development exciting and wanted to learn more.

When the opportunity to pursue further education came about through the NCB Group Scholarship, I first decided to study accounting and then transitioned to economics because the latter gives me the analytical and computer skills valued in business and finance. Not only does my Bachelor’s degree in economics cover all business aspects, but it allows me to understand urban planning, international development, policy analysis and project management, which will be valuable for a future career in the industry.

It has been a tough time for students worldwide. How have you managed to stay motivated despite the challenging circumstances?

Jada: As both a first-generation college student in my family and the first recipient of the NCB Group Scholarship, I hold myself accountable for my success. I want to graduate with good academic standing, not just for myself, but to help inspire my younger sister, who looks up to me, and for my parents, who did not have the opportunity to go to college themselves.

When COVID-19 first hit, I struggled to adjust to online classes causing my grade averages to drop. However, the team at NCB provided me with the patience and understanding I needed to bring my grades back up. With their support and encouragement, I have been able to work hard and complete my semesters with an above-average GPA.

Shahida, why should young Caymanians consider a career in construction and development?

Shahida: I always say to our project managers that there must be no better feeling than seeing a project go from being on paper to in the ground and, finally, becoming a high-quality and well-respected development. As a Caymanian, it is great knowing not only that “we did that” but that the products and services we offer help to create a sustainable, community-focused future for our islands.

At NCB, a career in construction and development offers a wide variety of opportunities. Across all ten of our integrated service lines, our teams cover all aspects of building, maintenance and management, and new innovative technologies. From the people delivering materials right up to project leads, at NCB you will always be an essential part of the process.

Jada, after you complete your degree, what will be the next step in your career journey?

Jada: When I complete my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a career as a commercial and residential real estate project manager. I would also like to advance my education further and pursue my master’s degree.

Shahida, what additional career support does NCB offer at the entry-level?

Shahida: Jada is a wonderful example of what an entry-level job at NCB can lead to. By displaying her initiative, determination, and passion for the job at hand, Jada rose through the ranks and achieved some remarkable things at the start of her career.

At NCB, we are proud to have a dedicated Training and Development Coordinator as a part of our team, who works to provide opportunities for our entry-level staff like Jada to build their skillset and achieve new qualifications to help them on their career journey.

The senior members of our team are also known to take promising, entry-level team members under their wings. As mentors, they share their years of experience in the industry to inspire and help develop their younger team members.

Are you interested in pursuing a career in construction and development with NCB? Visit our Careers page to see our current vacancies, contact hr@ncbgroup.ky to learn more about our internship, apprenticeship and scholarship opportunities or follow us on Instagram to see what a career with NCB could look like.

Building A Better Cayman: The Future of NCB Group

How NCB Group is adding value to Cayman’s real estate market

Over the past 20 years, the Cayman Islands have seen continued growth in the market value of real estate. Despite Covid-19 closing local borders, the total sales volume of the local market increasing by 4.3% to US$666.5 million in 2020, with the value of the average transaction increasing from US$769,289, in 2019, to US$971,546.

Sales and Marketing Manager Tania Knapik, notes NCB Group’s portfolio of world-class properties has helped attract a diverse pool of investors looking for a safe harbour to either invest in or call home to the islands. As a result, those who have invested in NCB developments see a 36% to 43% return on their investment.

As more eyes turn to Cayman, Managing Director Matthew Wight, notes NCB will continue to innovate, using the latest technology, ensuring their projects not only satisfy the needs of today but are also built with Cayman’s future in mind.

Discover where NCB’s journey started and what we’ve already accomplished by checking out the complete anniversary series.

Building A Better Cayman: The Key to Our Present Success

How NCB Group evolved to meet the changing needs of Cayman’s community

Catering to the Cayman Islands’ diverse population requires a detailed understanding of each unique individual’s needs throughout their purchasing journey, build and ongoing property experience. Ensuring these needs are not only met but exceeded has fuelled the fire of NCB Group’s expansion into 10 vertically integrated service lines.

Managing Director, Matthew Wight, notes the natural evolution of NCB allows the company to create a seamless transition between development and construction to property management and maintenance. Ultimately, this leads to a more pleasant experience for home and business owners, looking to reduce costs and gain more peace of mind over their assets.

Beyond developing its service lines, NCB has also expanded into the hospitality industry, helping Cayman grow its stake in the US$ 683.5 billion wellness tourism industry.

Throughout their growth, NCB has always aimed to build with Cayman’s future in mind. Discover our goals for the future and where it all started by exploring the complete 20th anniversary series.

Building A Better Cayman: The Strong Foundations of Our Past

NCB Group’s President highlights community as the key to success for businesses in Cayman.

After Covid-19 challenged the way we conduct business, NCB Group’s President, Naul Bodden, notes it was the company’s founding vision, of crafting communities through constant innovation, that sustained the company’s growth. That growth saw a team of 3 expand into 100 employees in 20 years.

As 2020 reinforced the need for community, Senior Manager of Development, Design & Client Relations, Candice Bahadur, notes NCB continues to design developments focusing on bringing people together. Whether these are green spaces, playgrounds, rooftop lounges, gyms, cabanas, outdoor grills, or Cayman’s first lazy river, NCB developments always enhance the lives of those, who live there.

For NCB, a commitment to sustainability has also helped them cater to the needs of the islands. NCB’s Sustainability and Design Manager, Steve Schiffbauer, notes that more home and business owners are seeking to become energy independent to reduce costs and their impact on the environment. Anticipating these needs and providing solutions has helped NCB to flourish throughout the last 20 years.

Learn more about NCB’s expansion and their plans for the future by checking out the complete anniversary series.

SOLARA welcomes owners home

One of the best parts of the development cycle is seeing owners’ excitement as they turn their completed houses into homes.

So, when the owners of the third and final block of SOLARA moved into their three-story, three-bedroom townhouses recently , we were excited to watch as each family put their own finishing touches on their new home.

Joining existing NCB communities Cypress Pointe and Cypress Pointe North, this sustainable development of 26 waterfront residences in sought-after Crystal Harbour boasts a private marina with individual boat slips for canal-access to the North Sound, a clubhouse with a resort-style pool, a children’s playground and state-of-the-art fitness centre for the ultimate island living experience.

Furthermore, as with most NCB developments, all of SOLARA’s energy-efficient townhomes are powered by solar panels and cooled by geothermal technology, significantly offsetting owners’ electrical bills so that residents can enjoy all the pleasures of island life whilst creating minimum impact on the local environment.

For more information on SOLARA and our other residential developments, email info@ncbgroup.ky.