A young Bermudian who received an IT scholarship last year spoke to students last week to encourage them to strive for success in the industry.

Del-Keesha Hanley was the first recipient of the Ewan Sampson Scholarship, set up in memory of the 18-year-old student who died in a 1998 cycle accident.

She spoke to students from several schools at an IT forum, which was sponsored by the Bermuda Computer Society and aimed to give them an insight into the workings of the industry.

She was awarded the three-year scholarship last year and is currently enrolled in Mount Saint Vincent University where she is studying IT.

Through a cooperative programme she is also working in Bermuda at XL/Mid-Ocean Re.

Her programme alternates between one semester of university and one semester of practical work.

Computer Society executive director Nathan Gentry explained that the event was directed towards university students and those attending senior schools and the Bermuda College.

"The primary objective is to provide those attending the event with the opportunity to find out more about career opportunities in this ever-growing industry,'' he said.

Ms Hanley said: "The kids were taken on a tour of all the computer rooms at Centre Solutions, in the Zurich Centre.

"They seemed very enthusiastic about IT.'' And a Scholarship Trust Press release said: "Time moves forward: those who had the opportunity to know Ewan will get fewer. However, through the work of Selection Committee, the scholarship recipients will not only be chosen for their academic ability and scholastic standing, they will be selected based on other equally important personal attributes.

"Their willingness to work with other students in the sharing of information, motivation and enthusiasm will be a priority.

"In truth, they must be `givers' just as Ewan was; moreover they will serve as effective role models for their peers.''