Diamond DeShields and Zachary Bishop are the recipients of the 2025 EY Gil Tucker Bermuda Scholarships.

The awards are valued at up to $30,000 a year for a maximum of five years until the recipient has completed the minimum educational requirements to pursue their public accountant, actuarial or other designation based on their field of study.

EY is now providing $150,000 in scholarship support to Bermudian students for the 2025-26 school year.

The award also includes a summer internship and an offer of full-time employment at EY Bermuda upon successful completion of the student’s university studies.

Ms DeShields recently graduated from Bermuda College and will begin her studies this autumn at the University of York, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in actuarial science.

She said: “Receiving this scholarship is deeply meaningful to me. It’s a reflection of the dedication poured into my studies at Bermuda College, and a reminder that, with perseverance, doors will open.

“As I begin my actuarial science degree at the University of York, I carry not only my academic aspirations, but also the hopes of my family and community who’ve supported me every step of the way. I’m sincerely grateful to the EY scholarship committee for believing in my potential and making this next chapter possible.”

Mr Bishop graduated from Saltus Grammar School in 2025 and will be transitioning to Loughborough University to pursue a degree in mathematics, accounting and financial management.

He stated: “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to begin my professional journey at EY. The internship has been an invaluable experience, and the scholarship support will allow me to pursue my bachelor’s degree in the UK and work towards my CPA qualification.”

Kent Howard, EY Bermuda partner and student programmes committee leader, said: “Our young people are our future, and we are proud to support both Diamond and Zachary, outstanding students who have excelled in their studies and have demonstrated the EY values of integrity, respect and teaming along their respective journeys.”

Bill Bailey, EY Bermuda country managing partner and tax leader for the EY region of the Bahamas, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands, added: “Our scholarship is an investment in the next generation of Bermudian leaders, supporting the education they need to realise their potential and shape the future with confidence.

“We are honoured to empower Diamond and Zachary through education and work experience to pursue their goals and make a positive impact.”

The scholarship fund is named after Gil Tucker, who retired in 2015 as EY Bermuda country managing partner.