Bermudian Stacee Smith has been chosen as the first recipient of Walkers Bermuda’s pupillage programme.

A past student at Saltus Grammar School and the University of Ottawa, Ms Smith completed a law degree at Queen Mary’s University in London, England.

She has also finished a legal practice course and has been gaining legal experience at various roles in the London music industry.

Ms Smith is also a former Royal Gazette journalist, and has had her work published in British newspaper The Guardian.

Walkers Bermuda said the pupillage programme is part of its investment in young Bermudian professionals. The programme is structured in line with Walker’s global training platform. It lasts for 12 months, with the time split between working in the corporate finance and funds department and six months in the insolvency and dispute resolution department.

Kevin Taylor, Walkers Bermuda managing partner, said: “Stacee possesses great potential and the partners are looking forward to guiding and supporting her in her legal journey.

“This latest hire underscores our continued commitment to training and developing talented young Bermudians, advancing their careers and the jurisdiction.”

Nicole Tovey, partner at Walkers Bermuda, said: “Our firm culture revolves around investing in promising young professionals, so we felt it was incredibly important to develop this extensive training programme for Walkers Bermuda. Stacee is the first recipient of the Walkers Bermuda pupillage and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.”

In a statement, the company said: “An integral element of the pupillage involves pupils working closely with experienced associates and partners, gaining exposure to Bermuda’s most important cases and transactions.

“Pupils are formally assigned to a partner of the firm who acts as a mentor and coach for the duration of their programme.”

Since 2016, Walkers Bermuda has also awarded three scholarships to young Bermudian students interested in pursuing a career in law.