Hard work paid off for two top senior school students who were each presented with a cheque for $1,500 to go towards their future education at their graduation ceremonies last week.

The awards were made by the Bermuda International Business Association (BIBA) to students who won top honours in business studies.

BIBA chairman Lloyd Wiggan presented the BIBA Award for most outstanding student in International Business to Samantha Smith-Joseph of Berkeley Institute.

And BIBA chief executive officer Cheryl Packwood handed CedarBridge Academy graduate LeShun Smith the BIBA Award for the top business student.

Both students also received a plaque. "It is vitally important that we encourage and award our students in their academic and personal achievements, especially in the areas of business where there are opportunities available for young people who are willing to apply themselves and work hard," Ms Packwood said.

"Our country needs, and will always need, educated and knowledgeable Bermudian talent."