Khyii Perinchief, a 17-year-old honours graduate of Saltus Grammar School, has been awarded the 2026 Axa XL Scholarship.

The scholarship is awarded to students pursuing an undergraduate degree in re/insurance industry related studies.

Mr Perinchief is scheduled to begin a Bachelor of Science in Business and Management at Royal Holloway, University of London in September. He plans to graduate in 2029 and pursue a career as a political risk and credit underwriter in Bermuda's re/insurance sector.

Mr Perinchief developed a strong interest in economics, geopolitics, international business and specialty insurance at an early age. He closely follows international affairs and global political developments, with a particular interest in how they influence international trade, investment, financial markets and political risk and credit insurance.

In June 2025, he participated in a school-sponsored week of work placement at Axa XL under the tutelage of Iva Taylor, a political risk and credit bond senior underwriter, an experience he described as “life changing”, saying that it confirmed his ambition to build a career in the field.

He has since continued to build his industry knowledge through independent study, engagement with insurance professionals and by pursuing the Associate in Risk Management designation through The Institutes, with the goal of earning the designation in spring 2027.

Mr Perinchief’s commitment to academic excellence earned him consistent honour roll recognition, including Head of School Honour Roll in his final year, and AP Scholar from the College Board. At graduation, he received the Jane Maddocks Endeavour Award in recognition of his perseverance, resilience and determination throughout his academic journey, along with the Accounting Subject Prize for outstanding performance in the subject.

Beyond his academic achievements, Mr Perinchief served as vice-president of the Saltus Chess Club, Yearbook Prefect and lead photographer for school sporting events, performances and major activities.

He also assisted with managing the Saltus Varsity Basketball Team, supporting game-day operations, inventory management, and scorekeeping; he volunteered with Keep Bermuda Beautiful, participated in Saltus’s monthly beach clean-ups, and assisted the Saltus tennis coach in organising activities for younger students.

Mr Perinchief's personal interests include reading, weightlifting and photography. Last year, he completed a summer internship with The Royal Gazette, gaining valuable professional experience in photography and visual storytelling.

Carol Parker Trott. the Axa XL Scholarship Committee chairwoman, said: “Khyii particularly stood out due to his adaptability, creativity, intellectual curiosity, and maturity. Possessing these qualities, as well as a clear commitment to continuous professional and personal development at such a young age, will no doubt bring him success at university and in his future career within the insurance industry. We congratulate him and look forward to all that he will accomplish.”