Jayunae’ Bailey and Samiah Fisher have been awarded the 2026 EY Bermuda Gil Tucker Scholarship.

The scholarship fund, created in honour of Gil Tucker, who retired in 2015 after serving as EY Bermuda's country managing partner, is valued at up to $30,000 per year for a maximum of five years, supporting recipients until they have completed the minimum educational requirements needed to pursue a public accounting, actuarial, or other professional designation relevant to their field of study.

Ms Bailey recently completed her first year at Hampton University, where she is pursuing a degree in finance.

Ms Bailey said: “Receiving the EY Scholarship is truly an honour and a blessing. This opportunity allows me to continue pursuing my passion for finance while receiving support both academically and professionally.

“Through the scholarship and internship experience, I am gaining valuable insight into the industry, building meaningful connections, and developing skills that will support my future career goals.

“I am sincerely grateful to the EY Scholarship Committee for recognising my hard work and investing in my future. This scholarship is helping me build a strong foundation for the career I aspire to achieve.”

Ms Fisher attends Buckinghamshire New University, where she is pursuing a bachelor's degree in finance and accounting and is expected to graduate in 2027. She said she was honoured to receive the scholarship.

“This recognition is a meaningful reminder that the hard work, dedication, and perseverance I have invested in my academic and professional journey are paying off as I work towards completing my degree,” Ms Fisher said.

“Through my internship with EY and future employment opportunities, I will gain valuable exposure to a professional environment that will help me develop my skills, expand my knowledge, and grow both personally and professionally. I am sincerely grateful for this opportunity and look forward to building a strong foundation for a successful career in finance and accounting.”

In addition to financial support, the award provides recipients with a summer internship and the opportunity for full-time employment with EY Bermuda upon the successful completion of their university studies.

Kent Howard, EY Bermuda partner and Student Programmes Committee leader, said: “At EY, we believe in shaping the future with confidence. Much of that hinges on our youth, recognising that education is essential in helping young people reach their full potential.

“Through the EY Scholarship programme, we help that become a reality. We are proud to support Samiah and Jayunae’ — both talented, hard-working, ambitious students who have excelled in their studies.”

Craig Redcliffe, EY Bermuda country managing partner and insurance leader for the EY region of the Bahamas, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands, added: “By investing in education and meaningful work experience, our scholarship helps equip the next generation of Bermudian leaders with the confidence, skills and support to pursue their ambitions and contribute positively to the future.”

• For information about the scholarship, visit ey.com/Bermuda