Award Category: <span>2024 Award Recipients</span>

Ywione Darrell is a dedicated scholar who will be pursuing a Masters (MSc) in Economics for Development at the University of Oxford. His educational journey from Paget Primary School on Ord Road to Saltus Grammar School on St. John’s Road provided him with early insights into Bermuda’s socioeconomic disparities. Ywione’s awareness of these inequalities has motivated him to pursue a career in economic research and policymaking. This summer, Ywione will graduate with a First Class Honours Bachelor Degree (BSc) in Political Economy from King’s College London. Beyond academics, Ywione is committed to reinvesting in his community. He notably co-founded Longtail Learning, an educational support organization for Bermudian youth. Despite his achievements, Ywione attributes much of his success to his Great Aunt Melinda Williams, Mother Onika Darrell, and Grandmother McLeitha Darrell. Their support, alongside that of the Bermudian public, inspires Ywione to focus his future research on creating actionable solutions to bridge Bermuda’s economic divide and ensure a prosperous future for all Bermudians.

Chantae Wilson completed her high school education in the UK in 2020 before returning home to enroll in Bermuda College’s Actuarial Science Program. During her time there, Chantae was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, received Vice President Honors, and was awarded the Most Outstanding Arts and Science Graduate of the 2023 class. Chantae discovered her passion for gymnastics at a young age and competed as an elite gymnast on the Bermuda National Team. She represented Bermuda internationally for over 10 years, proudly winning one of only two gold medals for the country at the 2017 NatWest Island Games in Gotland. Now a senior at St. Francis Xavier University, Chantae’s ultimate goal is to return to Bermuda and become a qualified actuary in the life (re)insurance industry. She has joined Actuaries of Bermuda and is eager to thrive, learn, and inspire like-minded individuals in the community. As a female Bermudian actuary, she hopes to serve as a role model and demonstrate that success is achievable even as a minority.

Majesty is a 2022 graduate from ChristChurch School (CCS) in Virginia. Currently pursuing a BSc in Criminology, Law and Society at George Mason University (GMU), she is a Dean’s List Awardee, a member of GMU’s Honor College and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. During her high school career, Majesty was on the Headmaster’s List, maintained a 4.29 GPA and inducted into the National Honour Society. She held the positions of Prefect, Residential Prefect Leader, Community and Unity Councils member. Alongside her studies, Majesty participated in extra-curricular activities such as volleyball and varsity football. As an avid footballer, Majesty was team captain and selected for the All-State team at CCS. She is a current member of GMU’s Intramural Co-ed team and PHC’s Women’s team. Majesty is actively involved in her churches locally and abroad, giving back to her communities. Upon the completion of her undergrad degree, Majesty intends to attend law school, be called to the Bermuda Bar and give back to the community that has given so much to her.

Kennedy Wilks is currently pursuing a Global Law degree at Queen Mary University of London. He graduated with honors from Dulwich College in 2023, excelling in English Literature, Economics, and French. His leadership was evident as Head of the African and Caribbean Society and the Young Entrepreneurs’ Society, where he organized cultural initiatives and mentored peers. Kennedy co-founded Kaleid Consultancy, a nonprofit aimed at helping students gain admission to independent schools through insider advice and curated tutoring programs. He conducted one-on-one tutoring in Math and English, tailored lessons to individual needs, and used his graphic design skills to create promotional materials, enhancing the organization’s impact. Additionally, Kennedy is an accomplished artist. He recently held his first solo show in London, drawing inspiration from personal archives, including images from his childhood, family, and friends. His collection explored identity, love, family, and cultural narratives, reflecting his journey towards self-definition. Kennedy aspires to specialize in intellectual property, data management, and artificial intelligence. His goal is to lead a top global law firm, contributing innovative solutions and promoting social equality through community service and mentoring

Anaya West is a dedicated Computer Science student at Dalhousie University. He graduated with honors from Cedarbridge Academy, where he served as Head Boy and House Captain during the 2022–2023 academic year and was also a member of the National Honor Society. Beyond academics, Anaya is an accomplished athlete, running track and field for DASH Track Club. He has proudly represented Bermuda in various international competitions, demonstrating his commitment to athletics and personal growth. Anaya’s passion for technology fuels his academic pursuits, with a strong interest in innovation and solving complex problems. He lives by Winston Churchill’s words, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” Anaya eagerly applies his skills in real-world contexts through projects and internships, gaining practical experience that complements his academic studies. Anaya aspires to make significant contributions to Bermuda’s tech and international business sectors. By integrating these fields, he aims to foster innovation and drive positive change in his home country, leveraging his knowledge and experiences to create a meaningful impact.

Sydney demonstrates exceptional academic focus and leadership at St. Francis Xavier University. Entering her final year, she is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with an Advanced Major in International Business, a Spanish minor, and a Co-op program for practical industry experience. Beyond academics, Sydney actively contributes to campus life. Her financial acumen strengthens the Modern Languages Society as their Treasurer. She fosters financial literacy as Project Manager for Enactus StFX and fosters collaboration as Society Liaison for The BLACC Student Society. Additionally, she manages two part-time on-campus jobs. Sydney demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning. She actively seeks knowledge through financial literacy podcasts and personal development books. When not excelling academically, she maintains a healthy balance through travel, time with loved ones, and exploration of her interests. This summer, Sydney is interning as a Healthcare Underwriting Assistant at Liberty Specialty Markets Bermuda. Following that, she heads for a two-week internship with BFIS in Chicago. Post-graduation, Sydney will take a gap year before returning to Bermuda to embark on a career in the international business sector. Sydney aspires to contribute meaningfully to Bermuda’s youth through mentorship and other initiatives.

After graduating from The Berkeley Institute in 2021, Jehrai joined Bermuda College. At Bermuda College, he was a student employee in the Business Office, a member of the Student Government as Assistant Treasurer, a member of the prestigious Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, a member of MenSpeak, a volunteer for the Bermuda College Foundation, and a Dean’s List student. He attended the ILS Convergence Conference in 2022 and 2023, the Bermuda Risk Summit in 2023, the Bermuda Captive Conference in 2023, and the Bermuda Tech Summit in 2023. Beyond academics, Jehrai’s passions shift to the world of Muay Thai and weightlifting. He is an enthusiast of history, constantly indulging himself in the stories and events of the past. Jehrai graduated from Bermuda College in December 2023 and subsequently interned at Deloitte as an Audit Associate. After Deloitte, he began interning at Integral ILS, catering to his passions: insurance and finance. In the fall of 2024, he will commence his journey at Newcastle University, majoring in Economics & Finance, equipping himself with the knowledge needed to positively impact Bermuda’s economy.

Kahlil Smythe graduated with distinction from Bermuda College in 2024, earning an Associate of Arts in Business Administration with a 3.80 GPA. He was recognized as the CPA Most Outstanding Accounting/Finance Graduate and is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society. Currently, he is a Finance Intern at Sompo International and will pursue an MA (Hons) in Accounting and Finance at the University of Edinburgh starting in September. Kahlil graduated from Cedar Bridge Academy in 2022, where he was consistently on the honor roll and received the College Promise Scholarship, covering his Bermuda College tuition. He achieved Principal’s Honors throughout his senior year at Cedar Bridge, excelled as a trumpeter in the school band, and passed three ABRSM music exams along with his music GCSE exam. Upon completing his degree, Kahlil aims to return to Bermuda to work for an audit firm and aspires to obtain his CPA or ACA certification. His dedication to academic and professional excellence marks him as a future leader in accounting and finance.

In May 2024, Sari graduated from Bermuda College with an Associate Degree in Business with distinction. This September, she will pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance at Exeter University. Following her studies, she plans to obtain professional qualifications in accounting or actuarial science. Outside of academics, Sari is deeply committed to community service. As an entrepreneur and accomplished violinist, she has started her own business performing at weddings and events. For the past seven years, she has volunteered as a violinist in rest homes and provided affordable violin lessons to Bermuda’s youth. Additionally, she has served in various positions in the Hamilton Rotary Interact over the past six years. With a strong sense of community, entrepreneurial spirit, and drive for excellence, Sari looks forward to furthering her education in the UK and returning to Bermuda to contribute to her community and advance her career in the re/insurance industry.