The Association of Bermuda International Companies awarded a record $800,000 in scholarships this year, recognising 28 students at its annual mentors’ reception held July 10 at Chubb.

Now in its 48th year, Abic said in a press release that its awards programme continues to be a pillar of support for young Bermudians pursuing careers in international business. The event brought together scholarship recipients, alumni, mentors and members of the business community to celebrate the power of both financial support and mentorship.

Abic’s award recipients for 2025 are Kahzi Sealey, Jaden-Alex Walrond, Jayunae Bailey, Hadaz Philpott, Shane Powell-Hayward, Akinyi Apopa, Kiara Burcher, Benjamin Porter, Kairo Lewis, Destani Warner, Zuri Swan, Airica Outerbridge, Camya Matthew, Jeriel Fernandes, Alay Burgess-Rocker, Zachary Bishop, Ayr Cannonier, Camaje Easton-Smith, Elias Baia, Esi Naylor, Isabel Roe, Rahkeem Wilson, Riley Christopher-Petgrave, Riley Morbey, Tejah Bean, Zaire Lodge and Zuri Harrison.

“Each of these students represents the promise of Bermuda’s future,” said Christian Dunleavy, chairman of Abic. “We are proud to provide both financial support and mentorship as they pursue their academic and professional goals. Their success is our shared success.”

The $800,000 milestone was made possible by Abic’s member companies. Since the programme began, it has supported hundreds of students with funding and professional development opportunities, the company stated.

Michelle Seymour-Smith, chairman of the education awards, highlighted the programme’s growth: “Mentorship plays a critical role in setting students up for success, providing them with the guidance, encouragement and professional insight they need to thrive.”

The evening’s keynote speaker, Nadir Young, a 2021 Abic scholar now working at PwC and pursuing his Certified Public Accountant designation, reflected on the programme’s lasting impact.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Abic for investing in me,” Mr Young said. “The support and mentorship I received helped shape my career path, and I hope to pay that forward.”