Scholarship Fund
Since 1994, the Insurance Managers Association of Cayman has been committed to supporting the educational development of the next generation. We are dedicated to providing young people with the opportunity to study abroad: to gain knowledge, experience, confidence and a fresh perspective and to use this experience to build their careers and to enrich their lives and communities.
We strongly believe that all young people should have the opportunity to further their studies and pursue their goals. That is why we are committed to awarding our scholarships where they can provide the most benefit.
To date, we have raised close to $5 million and supported 73 young Caymanians pursue further studies around the globe in disciplines as diverse as Business Management, Arts and the Sciences.
IMAC Scholarship Fund Update – October 2024
We are so proud of what they have gone on to achieve through their hard work and dedication. You can read biographies of our IMAC scholarship graduates below.
Get Involved
IMAC relies on the generous support of its members and industry partners who share our commitment to supporting the next generation through investment in education. All our members and partners understand the value of scholarships in:
- supporting the education of talented and motivated youngsters;
- bolstering the employment opportunities for graduates of the programme;
- facilitating cultural exchange with people of all backgrounds bringing new insights and experiences;
- developing and promoting the Caymanian economy.
For over 25 years the insurance industry of the Cayman Islands has proudly watched our graduates grow and develop. If you would like to get involved, please contact Kevin Poole.
Make a Donation
Our charitable effort to support future generations of Cayman scholars starts and ends with our members and we greatly appreciate their financial backing of our scholarship initiative. We also encourage all members to consider making a donation to support our future programmes.
To make a donation please get in contact with Kevin Poole.
Cheques may be made payable to “IMAC Educational Scholarship Fund” and sent Attn Kevin Poole at P.O. Box 10552, KY1-1005, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
All contributions will be gratefully received, and you too can share in the success of the IMAC scholarship.
Application Information
The IMAC Scholarship is open to Caymanians who have achieved a minimum of 5 good passes at CXC or IGCSE or the equivalent. Preference will be given to those school leavers in the current year who are without the financial means to pursue further studies.
Applicants are free to study any course at any competitively ranked and accredited University, although applicants for insurance, risk management and other business-related courses will be given preference.
Successful applicants will be able to access funding to cover their tuition and living expenses, for a maximum of four years.
All that we ask in return is that our successful candidates maintain the required grade point average and that they have a desire to return to the Cayman Islands to add value to our economy and society.
How Do I Apply?
- Download our application form anytime from mid March each year
- Carefully read and provide all documents as laid out on our Documentation Checklist
- Combine ALL files into a single PDF file of 6MB or less
- Email final PDF file to us
All applications should be emailed to esf@imac.ky by Friday 17th May 2024.
Qualified candidates will be invited shortly after to attend an interview with our fund directors.
Additional Resources
See details on the Cayman Islands Government Scholarship
See the Cayman Scholarships Directory https://www.caymanscholarships.com/
Scholarship Donors
IIMAC thanks its members and industry partners who have donated to the IMAC Scholarship Fund in 2022 (current at August 31, 2022).
Atlantic Northern Insurance Company
Barents Re
Coast to Coast Insurance Company
Grant Thornton
Ian & Marlene Kilpatrick
Innershield Ltd.
Landmark
Strategic Risk Solutions
MAC thanks its members and industry partners who have donated to the IMAC Scholarship Fund in 2021.
Artex Risk Solutions
Coast to Coast Insurance Company
Howard University Capitol Insurance Ltd
InnerShield Ltd
Insurance Managers Association of Cayman
Sitnal Insurance Company (Cayman)
SSMHC
Westside Insurance Company
………………….
IMAC Scholarship Alumni
Find out more below about past recipients of the IMAC scholarship and see how the Insurance Managers Association of Cayman has helped young people reach their goals and achieve their potential.
Current Students
Past Students
- Jessica McBean
- Jayden Miller
- Jana Tibbetts
- Ashanti Minott
- Gabriella King
- Jelani Morrison
- Monique Gordon
- Khailan O'Connor
- Brianna Bodden
- Leshontae Missick
- Johnathon Bedasse
- Ashley Gooden
- Rosita Ritch
- Sydni Ebanks
- Sarah Jackson
- Nathan McCoy
- Joe Jackson
- Alfie Parker
- Melanie Criss Gonzalez
- Jake Bennett
- Enrique McCoy
- Jevaughnie Ebanks
- Vanessa Burke
- Aryana Grant
- Deajra Tulloch
- Lacee Barnes
- Shantelle Ellis
- Katherine Tatum
- Miriam Mascal
- Isaiah Robinson
- Ashli Welcome
- Katlen Bush
- Martynna Berry
- Mya Scotchman
- Amy Thompson
- Alexandra Artuch
- Julian Jervis
- Kayla Salomon
- Aaron Farrington
- Erica Powell
- Tiffany Rankin
- Chloe Tathum
- Priscilla Brown
- Whitney General
- Sheena Jackson
- Brittany Borden
- Karysa Ebanks
- James Geary
- Ian Beckles
- Camille Bodden
- Onassia Bodden
- Shivonne Nixon
- Victoria King
- Monique Hydes
- Samantha Dorman
- Janine Mitchell
- Jessica Powell
- Adam Clyne
- Laveda Burton
- Tiffany Anderson
- Tuda Murphy
- Bradley Erskine
- Dorothy Scott
- Jamil Solomon
- Mesha Christian
Scholarship Video Gallery and Stories
We are immensely proud of all our Scholarship Fund recipients, both for the dedication they have shown to their studies and their ability to forge careers in some highly competitive industries.
Jessica McBean
Jessica McBean
Counselling & Psychotherapy
Jayden Miller
Jayden Miller
Business Management
Jana Tibbetts
Jana Tibbetts
Creative Industries
Ashanti Minott
Ashanti Minott
Business
Gabriella King
Gabriella King
Screenwriting
December 2023 Update
Gabriella on her extracurricular activities while away at University: “I have been very involved in the community both at my school and in the Canadian-Caymanian community in general. I am currently on the board of the Student Union of York University (York Federation of Students), Speaker of the Winters College Council (a college-based student government at YorkU) and the a member of Creative Arts Students Association.
I work for the University in their International Department, specifically on the International Relations connecting them with other Universities and Governments.
I also joined Cayman Connection as the Regional Student Ambassador for Canada, striving to create more of a community for Caymanians in Canada, specifically Toronto.”
Jelani Morrison
Jelani Morrison
Ocean Science & Marine Conservation
Monique Gordon
Monique Gordon
Physiotherapy
Khailan O'Connor
Khailan O’Connor
Social Sciences
Brianna Bodden
Brianna Bodden
Biology
Leshontae Missick
Leshontae Missick
Medicine
Johnathon Bedasse
Johnathon Bedasse
Economics
May 2024 Update
Johnathon graduated from Columbia with a 3.5 GPA and degree in Financial Economics and concentration in Statistics.
Ashley Gooden
Ashley Gooden
Primary Education
June 2023 Update
Ashley will be graduating from the University of Reading on July 21st, 2023 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education (First-Class Standing) and with a QTS.
Ashley on her future plans: “My next plans consist of pursuing my masters in educational leadership commencing this September.”
Rosita Ritch
Rosita Ritch
Business Management
June 2023 Update
Rosita will be graduating from the University of Surrey on July 18th, 2023 with a BSc (Upper second class Honours (2:1)) Business Management (Marketing).
Rosita on her future plans: “To continue studying and complete a Masters (MSc) in Digital Marketing at the University of Surrey.”
Sydni Ebanks
Sydni Ebanks
Psychology
June 2023 Update
Sydni has now graduated from Brock University with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology with First-Class Standing.
Sydni on her future plans: “I plan to spend the year gaining work and volunteer experience before going on to pursue my Masters.”
Sarah Jackson
Sarah Jackson
Dietetics
June 2023 Update
Sarah has now graduated from The University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and a minor in Psychology.
Sarah on her future plans: “I will be beginning my Masters in Public Health in Community Education with a Global Emphasis at the Colorado School of Public Health this Fall.”
Nathan McCoy
Nathan McCoy
Biology
September 2022 Update
Nathan has graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health.
Nathan on his future plans: “I am currently working on my Masters in Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology at Baylor University and I will be applying to medical school next year.”
Joe Jackson
Joe Jackson
Economics
September 2022 Update
Joe has graduated from Royal Holloway, University of London with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics.
Joe on his future plans: “I have decided to head into the tech/data field and now am currently heading to Kings College London to complete a MSc in Data Science.”
Alfie Parker
Alfie Parker
Business
August 2022 Update
Alfie has graduated from Northumbria University with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Business with Tourism Management
Melanie Criss Gonzalez
Melanie Criss Gonzalez
Economics
June 2022 Update
Melanie has graduated from the University of Nottingham with a first class degree in Economics, International Finance and Banking.
Jake Bennett
Jake Bennett
Aviation Management with Flight
Florida Institute of Technology
February 2022 Update
Jake has graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management from the Florida Institute of Technology.
October 2021 Update
On October 1, 2021 Jake Bennet officially became a licensed Commercial Multi Engine Pilot. “Next step, Flight Instructor!”.
October 2019 Update
On October 4, 2019 Jake Bennet officially became a licensed Private Pilot upon passing his Private Pilot checkride.
Enrique McCoy
Enrique McCoy
Business Marketing with Management
October 2021 Update
Enrique started working for Dart as a Social Media Specialist.
Jevaughnie Ebanks
Jevaughnie Ebanks
Film and Television Production
March 2022 Update
In 2021, as part of his BA course, Jevaughnie and his team completed a short documentary, Islam in Lockdown. Since completing the film, it has won Best Student Film in the Lulea International Film Festival in Sweden.
So far, Radio Cayman and the Telegraph and Argus in the U.K. have reported on it. To read the Telegraphs report click here.
Cayman Compass has also published a story on Jevaughnie and his team’s film success – click here.
Jevaughnie has also been in contact with the CI government about airing the document on CIGTV.
Jevaughnie is currently half way through his masters, which is expected to conclude later this summer.
August 2021 Update
Graduated with a First Class Degree in Film and Television Production.
Vanessa Burke
Vanessa Burke
Marketing
Aryana Grant
Aryana Grant
Actuarial Science
Deajra Tulloch
Deajra Tulloch
Computer Science
Lacee Barnes
Lacee Barnes
Public Relations
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Lacee Barnes is another name readers may be familiar with, regularly appearing in the newspaper due to her sporting achievements in shot put and discus.
Lacee followed her plan and began at University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in communications with a concentration in public relations. She gained an academic private scholarship from the Insurance Managers Association of the Cayman Islands and finished her spring semester with a GPA of 3.66 and was awarded the “Commissioner’s Honor Role for Conference USA” in March.
September 2022 Update
Lacee Barnes will be pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Law, University of Law sponsored by Walkers.
2018 CARIFTA Games
During the 2018 CARIFTA Games in Bahamas, Lacee led Team Cayman on day one (31 March), throwing 13.40 meters to win silver in the Under-20 Women’s Shot Put. Lacee went on to win a gold in the Under-20 discus on day two (1 April) of the competition, setting a new national record with a distance of 49.81 meters. Two weeks later, Barnes broke her own national discus record at the UTSA Invitational with a distance of 48.31 meters.
See full story on Lacee’s Gold Medal here.
See full story on Lacee’s Silver Medal here.
Most Outstanding Sophomore Award
In 2019, Lacee beat 6,000 other students at the University of Texas at San Antonio, winning the “Most Outstanding Sophomore” award.
The criteria for the award is based on a high level of involvement on campus, and maintaining an average or higher, GPA.
Lacee’s campus involvement includes:
– Caribbean Student Association
– National Society of Leadership and Success
– SAAC (Student Athlete Advisory Committee)
– Being a student athlete competing in shotput and discus and scoring points at various championships.
Shantelle Ellis
Shantelle Ellis
Tourism Management
Katherine Tatum
Katherine Tatum
Psychology in Education
Miriam Mascal
Miriam Mascal
International Business
Isaiah Robinson
Isaiah Robinson
Computer Science
July 2020 Update
Graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in Computer Science with Security & Forensics.
Ashli Welcome
Ashli Welcome
Veterinary Medicine – Szent Istvan University in Budapest
June 2020 Update.
Graduated 2020 with degree of Master of Science in veterinary medicine at Szent Istvan University in Budapest and is now a doctor of veterinary medicine.
” I will forever be grateful for the support of IMAC and yourself throughout my educational pursuits. Thank you. Dr. Ashli Welcome, DVM MRCVS”
January 2018 Update.
Ashli Welcome was recognized as an Honouree by “Proud of Them” , a platform used by the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, Agriculture & Lands to headline Cayman’s Youth who are reaching higher. See Ashli’s story here.
Katlen Bush
Katlen Bush
English Education
November 2023 Update.
Katlen’s currently employed as a teacher at the John Gray High School.
2019 Update.
Graduated 2019 with Bachelor of Science in Social Studies Education with summa cum laude and KDP Honors. Katlen is now looking forward to teaching in the Cayman Islands Public School System and empowering her students through education.
Martynna Berry
Martynna Berry
Communication and Media Studies
June 2019 Update.
Martynna Berry been advised that she has been successful in all of her final exams and will gain a combined Bachelor of Arts ( Honours ) with a double major in Law, and Communication and Media Studies from Carleton University in Ottawa. In September 2019 she will be studying a legal conversion course at the Law university in Manchester, England, sponsored by Maples before coming back to Cayman to finish her Articles.
Mya Scotchman
Mya Scotchman
Psychology
Amy Thompson
Amy Thompson
Hospitality Management
Portsmouth University Graduated 2019 with a Upper Second Class Honors Bachelor Degree (2:1) in Hospitality Management with an overall GPA of 3.29.
When the magic starts, it’s just the beginning
You may not believe me when I say I work for a mouse. Yes, I’m talking about Mickey Mouse at Walt Disney World located in Orlando, Florida. I started working here on July 12th, 2017. This is where I am currently carrying out my one-year International College Program. It involves working full time at Magic Kingdom Tomorrowland attractions for the first six months, with the remaining six months to be spent in merchandising. I am also registered in online classes with Central Michigan University to gain extra credit.
This opportunity was offered through a placement session, organised by the University of Portsmouth’s placement team, and conducted by a third-party job recruitment agency called Yummy Jobs. They made the process of applying for the J1 visa less of a hassle, helped organise interviews with Walt Disney World recruiters, and gave valuable tips on making travel arrangements.
To be able to work for Mr Mickey Mouse himself at Walt Disney World has been tremendous. Multiple perks are all part of the package, including free park entry, staff discounts and not to mention free skills improvement classes. I am currently taking classes in leadership, hospitality, and guest relationships. These classes help me learn about the industry, while also preparing me for my future career in leadership. The company also introduces different wording for job roles, where employees are referred to as ‘cast members’ and supervisors are ‘coordinators’.
Along this wonderful journey I have met many people, experienced different cultures and learned new languages from fellow friends and cast members. It is a wonderful feeling to represent both my university and my country. Thanks to this experience I am able to share my culture with others and live up to my country’s moto of being Caymankind, even while abroad. I’ve also learnt new ways and strategies to deal with difficult situations and how to practice efficiency in everything I do by using the Disney 4 Keys – Courtesy, Safety, Show, and Efficiency.
Furthermore, I’ve learnt that Disney obtains a lot of loyal guests each year through their outstanding guest services which involves meeting unexpected needs and going above and beyond to make your day. This is what I hope to achieve as I leave the company to incorporate this in everything I do and as I work towards my future career as a hotel manager. It was an unparallelled experience, as I am a person who likes to move around and work in different environments. Even so, working at Walt Disney can be a bit of a shock at first because a lot is happening all at once. But in the words of the great Walt Disney: “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”
Amy Thompson
IMAC Scholarship 2015 Recipient
University of Portsmouth
Alexandra Artuch
Alexandra Artuch
English Literature
Graduated 2019 with BA in English Literature and received a 2:1.
Julian Jervis
Julian Jervis
Graduated 2019
Biology
George Washington University, New York
June 2019 update.
We congratulate Julian for his recent graduation as a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Biology from George Washington University.
Kayla Salomon
Kayla Salomon
Early Childhood Studies
University of Portsmouth. Graduated 2017 with a 2.1 Honours.
“I expect to now be completing my teaching certificate. I will be forever grateful for IMAC for giving me the opportunity to complete my bachelors degree and would highly recommend others to apply for the grant. I cannot say thank you enough! Without you guys I may not have been able to follow my dreams.”
Aaron Farrington
Aaron Farrington
Psychology
I am truly intrigued by so many facets of Psychology, and this interest acts as a driving force pushing me towards pursuit of a career in this field. Entering this field would allow me to contribute to society by using what I learn about human behaviors to positively influence people. Ideally, I would have taken Psychology as A-level subject but it was not offered at my school. The particular component of psychology I am most interested in, and the one in which I would like to pursue employment, is Occupational Psychology. In this field you have the opportunity to take all the aspects and teachings of a psychological nature and implement them in a working environment, where in truth they are even more useful due to the higher stress and pressured inter-personal relationships. May 2014.
Erica Powell
Erica Powell
Bachelor’s of Science in Early Childhood Education w/ ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) endorsement.
Florida International University.
Graduated in 2016 with Honors: Summa Cum Laude. She is now a Teaching Assistant at St. Ignatius Catholic School.
“I can’t begin to express my gratitude to IMAC for the academic scholarship they have awarded me. I know that that sounds incredibly cliché but without the generous support of the company and its sponsors my educational pursuits would not have been possible. Coming from a less privileged background I have seen many challenges in achieving my life-long dream of becoming a teacher, however these challenges have helped to make me who I am today, and have also helped me realize the true value of an education.
It has definitely been an emotional journey for me as I am sure it is for anyone trying to get into a university. The IMAC interview board made me feel like I had been welcomed into a family; and that
was one of the most amazing feelings I have felt in my entire life. If I could describe what the scholarship has meant to me it would be that it was almost like Christmas and I think the day I was offered the scholarship was in fact even better than any Christmas day.To the board and the sponsors, it means so much to me to know that you believe in my ability to reach higher educational goals. The scholarship is not only helping me in my goal of becoming a teacher but it is also enabling me against all odds to break the cycle; the cycle of the young girl from a broken home who was told she couldn’t. But I can and I am absolutely thrilled to tell you that I already am and will continue to make the best of the opportunity you have afforded me. Additionally, I cannot wait to be the teacher who can touch the lives of my students and then I can help my little ones achieve their dreams just as you have helped me achieve mine.”
July 2016 Update
Erica is now a Teaching Assistant at St. Ignatious Catholic School.
As regards her future ambitions, Erica said “I took the teaching assistant position in order to complete a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology (which would allow me to assess difficulties students might have with their learning. With this knowledge, I will be able to offer the support and guidance necessary to improve the student’s learning environment, behavior management or whatever is identified to be impeding his or her success in the classroom.) Over the next year, I will be working alongside a master teacher who is exceptional in the area of education and hope to learn more about teaching and learning whilst completing the Master’s degree.”
Tiffany Rankin
Tiffany Rankin
Forensic Science
“It is such a privilege and absolutely exciting experience to be the 2013 recipient of the IMAC scholarship”
Chloe Tathum
Chloe Tathum
BSc in Kinesiology
“My name is Chloe Tathum, the 2012 IMAC recipient. I am currently studying at Penn State University at University Park. I’m majoring in the field of Kinesiology (Movement Science option) with a minor in Biology.
The IMAC Scholarship is one of the greatest successes in my life thus far; this scholarship has allowed me to study in a field that is of great interest to me and also provided me the opportunity to study kinesiology in a institution with the best kinesiology graduate research faculty in the world. This would not have been made possible without IMAC. Thank You!”
April 2015 Update
Chloe received a full scholarship with Penn State to continue on another four years after graduation in 2016 to receive her PhD.
July 2016 Update
Chloe Tathum graduated with a BSc degree in Movement Science at Penn State University. Chloe will work for the Dart organization locally for a year or so before pursuing a Masters qualification.
Priscilla Brown
Priscilla Brown
Business Management
“The IMAC Scholarship has provided me with opportunities that I couldn’t possibly have access to on my own. It’s comforting knowing that I can finally finish my degree and start my journey towards a rewarding career. IMAC has given me the drive that I need to tackle any difficulty because of their continued interest in my success. I am forever grateful for this experience.”
September 2014 Update.
Priscilla graduated from the University of South Florida with a BSc degree in Business Management, She graduated with Summa Cum Laude distinction with an overall GPA of 3.91. Priscilla joined IMAC in September 2014 for a 4 month period as Assistant to the General Manager, gaining experience in event management and various association matters.
Whitney General
Whitney General
Biomedical Sciences
University of Sheffield . In 2012 Whitney transferred to study medicine at Bristol University
Whitney General was one of the full-time students that the Fund supported, she pursued a degree in Medicine (MB ChB) and BSc in Health Sciences at the University of Bristol.
“A scholarship from IMAC has been a tremendous opportunity of which I will always be grateful for. It has enabled me to pursue a degree at a top university to compete against some of the most intelligent students in the UK. Similarly, becoming a doctor means so much to me and this journey would have been a financial restraint without the generosity of the IMAC scholarship. Through IMAC I have embarked on a path where I can offer so much more to the people of the Cayman Islands than I would if I had not had this opportunity.
Likewise, Mr Pitcairn is great with the students as he has always been a friendly face and you can definitely tell he has our best interest at heart. ” – Whitney General (March 2017)
Sheena Jackson
Sheena Jackson
Computer Science
University of Waterloo, Canada. In 2012 Sheena transferred to the University of Sheffield to study Technology Management for Business
“The IMAC scholarship has given me the unique opportunity to pursue an exciting degree programme focused on my individual talents. I greatly appreciate IMAC’s tremendous support.
I endeavor to develop the skills that I am learning to be able to contribute positively to the local community, and would like to thank IMAC again for this amazing opportunity.”
In June 2015 Sheena Jackson gained a BSc degree in Information Technology Management for Business at the University of Sheffield.
Brittany Borden
Brittany Borden
Tom Clark Scholarship Recipient, Business Administration and Education, Brock University in St. Catharines, Canada.
September 2014 Update – Brittany is now employed with Marsh Management Services (Cayman) Limited.
“The day I was awarded the IMAC Scholarship, was one of the happiest days of my life. This scholarship enabled me to overcome the greatest struggle I faced in pursuing my dreams. I am forever thankful to all who made this a possibility.”
In June 2015 Brittany Borden graduated with a first class degree in Business Administration from Brock University, Ontario.
Karysa Ebanks
Karysa Ebanks
“I graduated from Purdue University in May 2013 with a Bachelor of Science
in Management & a concentration in Organizational Behavior and Human
Resources. I graduated with Distinction (within the top 10% of all
graduating students for Spring 2013). I am currently employed at HSBC Bank
(Cayman) Limited as the Human Resources & Marketing Executive.
BA Management, majoring in Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management, Purdue University.
2014 Update – Karysa is currently a Human Resources consultant with Deloitte in the Cayman Islands
The IMAC scholarship meant for me the difference between simply going to a
university I could afford and studying at one of the best universities in
the United States. Without the IMAC scholarship, my dream to attend Purdue
University would never have materialised. My sincerest gratitude to the
IMAC Scholarship Board for its financial assistance over the past four
years and a special thank you to John Pitcairn for his continued
encouragement and support when I needed it most.”
2014 Update.
Karysa is currently a Human Resources consultant with Deloitte. (2014) Karysa Ebanks commented “Joining the HR team at one of the largest global professional services firms has been an amazing experience, both professionally and personally. Embarking on such a steep learning curve has propelled me forward in my career and I am so excited by the training and development opportunities currently available to all Deloitte staff”.
James Geary
James Geary
BA in Music Business/Youth Ministries, Anderson University.
2017 Update – James is currently employed as a Parole Officer at Department of Community Rehabilitation – Cayman Islands.
“I have been able to further my academic career due to the IMAC Scholarship. It has meant the world to me to know that an association such as this one cares about the dreams and goals of young people. A priceless gem indeed!”
James Geary – Career highlights as at July 2023
Probation Officer, Department of Community Rehab, Grand Cayman –
2017-2023
Behavior Support Specialists, Department of Education, 2015-2017
Youth Specialist, Children & Youth Services Foundation — 2015-2016
UNPAID EXPERIENCE
Director, Youth Act Cayman (Anti-Crime Trust)
Youth ACT is a non-profit association created to develop and implement effective prevention programs to address anti-social behavior and reduce and prevent youth crime. The key objective of Youth ACT is to empower children with the required knowledge to prepare them to deal with the social, emotional and at-risk behavioral demands placed on them by their peers and society. Youth Act will also advocate for a change in public policy in the penalties and punishment administered to our youth as we support the concept of restorative justice.
- Coordinate meetings with schools, stake holder agencies (i.e. Prison, RCIPS, Schools, Family Resource Centre)
- Actively encourage and support members of the Prison Service who have potential to join Youth ACT team as a resource.
Caricom Youth Ambassador, Youth Services Unit
— June 2012- Present
- The Caricom Youth Ambassadors Program is a National Youth Policy program focused on delegated participation and empowerment of young people in the Cayman Islands.
I currently run a professional recording studio and music/creative academy in George Town called 345 Live Creative studios. This is Caymans first grassroots studios and allows access to all to promote their creativity year round.
Additionally I am currently an international touring singer/songwriter. I’ve opened live in concert for Walshy Fire, Wyclef Jon, Lecrae, Mali Music, Popcaan, and much more. I’ve been on tour since May 2023 (Cayman to World Tour) and have completed stops in Miami, New York City, and our next stop is London.
I am currently the executive producer for the 3 time Grammy award winning band Morgan heritage and am task with promoting their new “Homeland”
Album.
I also run a local promotions, productions and event company calls Roots Promotions and event where I provide sound, music, and lighting for corporate events. Some of my clients include are the Ritz Carlton, The Westin, Kimpton Seafire, Young Living essentials oils, Toyota, The Marriot, and much more. My company books talent to various venues on island.
I am currently an intern with Caricom and a Mentor Coach in their Aspiring Youth Empowerment Program. I mentor young entrepreneurs across the region to assist them with gaining the following skills and objectives:
- Increase youth financial literacy to make informed business decisions.
- To build the entrepreneurial capacity and technological ideas that will assist in converting ideas to material form or products.
- To assist youth in building their social capacity to form networks to enhance the progress of their businesses.
- Increase young people’s self-efficacy and self-confidence, and soft skills to reach their optimal potential.
I am also a recipient of the presidential award from Rotary for my musical contributions and service to the club. I’m often invited to sing at multiple National events for the Cayman Island both locally and internationally.
Ian Beckles
Ian Beckles
BA Lynn University. Ian is currently employed as a Client Account Associate at Artex Risk Solutions ( Cayman ) Limited.
“IMAC enabled me to pursue my tertiary education without all the fiscal uncertainty regarding tuition that so many college students are facing today. Thank you IMAC!”
Camille Bodden
Camille Bodden
BSc- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorabo at Boulder. Camille transfered to Stetson University, Florida, to pursue a communications degree
My tertiary education began with aspirations of becoming a Biology teacher. As a 2009 IMAC scholarship recipient, I studied at the University of Colorado – Boulder for 2 years, as I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Mesmerized by the age of mountains, entranced by the endless pine forest with its curious plants and quiet steams; I felt that I had chosen the right path.
Everything changed after my first public speaking class as a Sophomore Biology student. Inspired by the composition of sentences, the meaning of words and the power of things well said, I took the plunge and changed majors as I began to pursue new dreams of working in Public Relations, Communications and Marketing.
I transferred to Stetson University for its excellent Communications program and the mandatory internship required for completing the program – this was both an opportunity for academic growth and professional development. I continued studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies, with a minor in Marketing.
Upon Graduating from Stetson in May, I was recognized as 1 of 4 Outstanding Seniors in my major and I received Cum Laude honors. I had also been the Scholarship Officer for my Communication Honors Fraternity, Lambda Pi Eta. As I collected my diploma I felt a deep sense of gratitude. I thought of all the people that had propelled me and encouraged me to seize my dreams. Achieving that milestone would not have been possible without IMAC’s financial support and all of the IMAC members who encouraged me and pushed me to dream without limits while I pursued what I loved most.
I now work at Dart Enterprises Ltd. as a Communications Coordinator. I assist our Senior Manager of Corporate Communications by monitoring corporate sponsorships, maintaining and updating copy for our intranet and assisting with public relations for our scholarship programs. I look forward to learning and growing with the company as I pursue a bright future in the field of organizational and corporate communications. If I had not been awarded the IMAC Scholarship, I would not have had the amazing opportunity I have today.
2017 Update
Camille Angel (nee Bodden) is now a Youth Empowerment Officer in the Youth Services Unit – Cayman Islands Government.
She is also one of Cayman’s 2017/19 CARICOM Youth Ambassadors.
Onassia Bodden
Onassia Bodden
Bachelor in Business Administration, University of Miami. Onassia is currently employed in the Compliance Department at CNB.
“The scholarship from IMAC opened the door for the best 4 years of my life. My college experience extended beyond education in a lecture hall. It was also a period of self development and learning a lot about myself and the world around me. And at the end of it all, my college experience and education led me to another door… an exciting and challenging career. None of it would have been possible without the generous sponsorship and support offered by IMAC.”
Shivonne Nixon
Shivonne Nixon
BA Psychology, Acadia University.
September 2017 Update Further to her initial degree in Psychology at Acadia University, she has recently graduated from Loyola with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology. She will now work on obtaining her licensure to become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.
“I am forever grateful to IMAC for providing me with the opportunity to pursue my degree at Acadia University in Nova Scotia, Canada in 2007. The Bachelors Degree that I earned with a major in Psychology and a minor in Sociology gave me the necessary experience and qualifications to be able to return to Cayman to become part of the Children and Youth Services Foundation family, where I have been working for 2 years as a Residential Support Worker at Frances Bodden Girls Home. The joy and gratification that I have felt during my time there has been a reward within itself. In the near future, I plan to pursue my Masters in Clinical or Counselling Psychology. IMAC gave me the chance to begin my future and I thank them.”
Updates:
September 2014 – Shivonne Nixon is currently studying for a Masters in Clinical Psychology in Baltimore at Loyola University, Maryland.
September 2017: Further to her initial degree in Psychology at Acadia University, she has recently graduated from Loyola with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology. She will now work on obtaining her licensure to become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Victoria King
Victoria King
BA – Philosophy and Spanish University of Virginia
“This scholarship allowed me to complete my Bachelor of Arts degree at one of the highest ranked public universities in the United States: the University of Virginia, and directed me toward a profession in Law. I wouldn’t be where I am today, commencing my Articles at a leading law firm in Cayman, if it were not for the IMAC Scholarship providing me with a solid foundation. I am forever grateful.”
Monique Hydes
Monique Hydes
BA Business Administration, Nova Southeastern University
“I am most grateful to the Scholarship fund and IMAC for their constant support. They have helped me become who I am today.”
Samantha Dorman
Samantha Dorman
Veterinary Science, Massey University, New Zealand
“Receiving the Mary Lou Gallegos Scholarship award in 2006 was truly a blessing and a life changing experience. Not only was it a testament to the fact that there were people who genuinely believed in my abilities and aspirations, but knowing I had their support provided extra motivation to make it through my degree in order to return home and serve in my local community. I will be forever greatful to IMAC and what they continuously strive to achieve for the advancement of Cayman’s youth.”
Janine Mitchell
Janine Mitchell
BS Accounting, University of Tampa
“I am grateful to IMAC not only for the financial support, but more importantly for having believed in my limitless potential and that of so many young Caymanians.”
Jessica Powell
Jessica Powell
BA Business Administration, Unversity of Miami
“The scholarship has offered me excellent educational, career and networking opportunities. I have had several life-changing experiences in the past few years that I know would not have been possible without this program!”
Adam Clyne
Adam Clyne
Computer Science, Florida Institute of Technology, Business Administration, University College of the Cayman Islands.
February 2023 Update
Adam is now a Customs and Border Control officer in Cayman Brac.
December 2016 update. Adam is now an Immigration Officer serving in Cayman Brac
“The scholarship is a terrific thing to have……….it literally makes the dream come true.”
Laveda Burton
Laveda Burton
BA (Hons) Finance & International Business, Richmond University.
December 2014 Update – Laveda Burton is now a relationship manager at Butterfield Bank.
“The scholarship has offered me excellent educational, career and networking opportunities. I know where I am today would not have been possible without this program!”
December 2014 Update. Laveda Burton is now a relationship manager at Butterfield Bank.
Tiffany Anderson
Tiffany Anderson
BA Accounting & Finance, South Bank University, London
After graduating from London South Bank University, I landed my first permanent role as an auditor with BDO, a Top 5 firm for 3+ years and qualified as ACCA accountant (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). My biggest leap began when I given the opportunity to work overseas which led me to work at JP Morgan Bank in Luxembourg. I worked in the fund administration team alongside many colleagues of various cultures, languages and backgrounds. Apart from the daily fund role, extra projects involved internal controls and risk management reviews and testing of various departments. With English the 4th language in a country centrally located in Europe, I grasped business French for easier interaction with my European clients and to embrace my new European lifestyle.
My exposure to different careers in the hedge fund world guided my decision to work for the clients in asset management as my next big step. After plenty researching, reviewing and ten great interactive interviews later; I landed a fantastic job with Goldman Sachs Asset Management based in central London. I am able to combine all my experiences learnt in auditing and funds administration into a dynamic, motivating and interchanging role.
I am still a long way from success and there are still so many things for me to learn. The credit of the little achievements that I have today should be given to my former and current supervisors, mentor, Insurance Managers Association of Cayman (IMAC) scholarship committee and not least my family and friends who guided and provided me with opportunities to learn and grow. On the other hand, the passion for my profession also plays a profound part as it motivates me to continue my learning and to keep on improving myself.
(posted July 25, 2012)
Tuda Murphy
Tuda Murphy
BA Finance, Kings College, Tennessee (see Wikipedia)
“I greatly appreciate IMAC’s tremendous support. My life has been shaped for an ambitious future by their generosity.”
Bradley Erskine
Bradley Erskine
BA International Business & Finance, Florida International University.
Currently working at Mourant Ozannes, Senior Compliance Administrator
“Proof that people care to assist with changing/improving lives.”
Dorothy Scott
Dorothy Scott
BA Anthopology and Laws, United World College – New Mexico, then London School of Economics. Qualified as Attorney at Law in 2005
“To all those who believed in me in 1997, you have my deepest thanks. I hope you know how much you have contributed to my success of being qualified as an Attorney at Law today. I am forever grateful.”
Jamil Solomon
Jamil Solomon
BA Business Studies, University of Miami
“I will always be appreciative at the support given to me by IMAC to reach my dreams!”
Born and raised in Grand Cayman, Jamil first moved to the United States to attend Stetson University where he obtained a Bachelors of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. After graduating he returned home for a little over three years and worked in finance and banking. He returned to the US in 2005 and obtained an MBA from the University of Miami. He has since successfully obtained a designation as a Level 1 sUAS Certified Infrared Thermographer which he incorporates into his business as the owner of Cynosure Media, a drone services provider in Orlando, FL.
Mesha Christian
Mesha Christian
International Baccalaureate, United World College Wales, BSc Management and Economics, University of South Florida
“Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as you have helped me.”