This year’s Rising Stars represent a bold new wave of talent. They are fiercely passionate, relentlessly driven, and uncompromising in their pursuit of success. Hailing from diverse backgrounds and working across a range of industries, they share one undeniable trait, they’re shaping a brighter future for Bermuda, one breakthrough at a time.
Terrae Tuzo
Age: 29
Position: Senior Reinsurance Claims Specialist
Employer: Convex Re Ltd
Education: Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting and Finance, Manchester Metropolitan University
What drives you to succeed?
What drives me is a natural curiosity and an ongoing commitment to take any opportunity to continue learning and growing. I’m fascinated by how the Reinsurance Claims world works and the challenges that it presents. It pushes me to learn, adapt and sharpen my skills. Personally, I believe success isn’t just about hitting targets, but about the journey of expanding my capabilities and ultimately being able to tackle complex problems. The opportunity to evolve and overcome new challenges is incredibly motivating.
Why did you choose to be a part of this industry?
I chose this industry because it offers both a broad, strategic view and the opportunity to make a real difference. On the reinsurance side, I was fascinated by how it supports global stability and manages risk behind the scenes. It’s the safety net that keeps industries and communities moving forward. On the claims side, it’s about turning promises into action. I enjoy navigating complex situations, digging into the details and delivering solutions exactly when people need them most. This mix of high-level strategy and meaningful, real-world impact is what truly drew me in and continues to inspire me every day.
What is the best part about working for your company?
The best part about working at Convex is the exceptional talent and the strong culture of empowerment. I’m constantly learning from highly experienced professionals who are not only leaders in their field but also genuinely collaborative and supportive. We’re trusted to take ownership of our decisions and drive initiatives forward, so our contributions truly make a difference. This blend of working alongside brilliant people and having the freedom to create real impact makes Convex a genuinely stimulating and rewarding place to be.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
I consider my greatest achievement to date to be handling the January 2025 California wildfires claims. This was the largest event I’ve managed so far, not in terms of the number of claims, but in the sheer scale of losses involved. Being at the forefront of delivering exceptional service, communicating effectively with both internal teams and clients, and ensuring a swift, fair resolution was incredibly rewarding. Receiving positive feedback from clients, knowing they felt supported during such a devastating time, was particularly meaningful. Being able to provide timely compensation to those who had lost their homes and livelihoods was a powerful reminder of the real impact our work has. It was a true test of skill, empathy and commitment.
Karim Creary
Age: 29
Position: Associate, Corporate
Employer: Appleby
Education: BSc International Economics and Spanish, St Lawrence University; Graduate Diploma of Law and MSc Law and Business Managment and Legal Practice Course, University of Law, Bristol
Are there certain words you live by?
“Be a positive ripple in the pond.” In every room, transaction, meeting, client interaction etc. that I am a part of I hope to have an overall positive impact.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self that all the clichés of life hold truth and can be a blueprint. Corny phrases like “consistency is key,” “hard work pays off,” and “luck = preparation + opportunity” were all advice that I heard early but didn’t truly understand until I had experiences where they proved their relevance. I now think that these clichés or “truthisms” offer an easy blueprint for success. I would tell my younger self by accepting the corny truths of life early you have a head start on the positive habits which compound success.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
The best part about working in the legal industry is the diverse opportunities we have as lawyers to help others. Through offering legal advice we witness clients’ dreams evolve from fledgling ideas, into life- and industry-changing businesses. We also have the opportunity to problem solve for others, whether it is volunteering at legal advice clinics or offering our friends a legal perspective that they haven’t considered (while encouraging them to get proper legal advice, of course). Having the trust of clients and the community at large to help them accomplish their goals is a great feeling.
What is the best part about working for your company?
The best part about working for Appleby is the wealth of knowledge that the company has to offer. Being a part of a firm with subject matter experts in the fields of insurance, debt and equity financing, fund management, data protection and privacy, just to name a few, I am able to ask questions and grow a diverse wealth of knowledge that spans multiple fields. Appleby has also allowed me to contribute to the firm even as a junior; whether it is allowing me to attempt to bring new clients and business to the firm or to attend conferences and build new connections to grow my profile, they have given me the opportunity to develop skills needed to be a better professional.
Christina Rodrigues
Age: 30
Position: Assistant Compliance Manager
Employer: HSBC
Education: Bachelor of Business Administration, Acadia University; Associate in Risk Management, The Institutes
What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my parents and my son. My parents laid a strong foundation for me. I grew up witnessing their dedication and hard work to provide the best for my brother and me. Their example continues to inspire me, and I strive to instill the same values in my son. I am also grateful for HSBC’s investment in my development starting from the Graduate Development Programme to my current role as an assistant compliance manager.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self not to be afraid of stepping outside of my comfort zone. Growth often comes with discomfort, and letting fear hold you back will only limit your potential. You must be willing to challenge yourself in order to reach your goals.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
One of the best aspects of working in banking at HSBC is the wealth of opportunities for growth and development. I began my journey through the Graduate Development Programme, which allowed me to gain hands-on experience across various areas of retail banking. This exposure helped me identify my strengths and areas for development as well as gain experience in banking products and client engagement. Since completing the programme, I’ve had the opportunity to work in both the risk and controls space and compliance, further broadening my understanding of the organisation and deepening my knowledge across different functions.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
There are so many people I could name! However, I would say Kristin Peterson, Chief Operating Officer. She was my project manager when I started off at HSBC and has been a constant source of support and guidance since day one. Kristin has consistently challenged me to reach my full potential and has always been willing to offer assistance to ensure my success.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
My transition from a graduate trainee into a substantive role within compliance. On a daily basis I am ensuring that we do business safely and are protecting the assets of our customers. Being a mother is also very high on that list!
Katherine Deane-Gray
Age: 24
Position: Analyst, Healthcare Consulting
Employer: KPMG
Education: Bachelor of Arts (Major in Psychology, Minor in Commerce), Mount Allison University
Are there certain words you live by?
A quote from Moby Dick: “I know not all that may be coming, but be it what it will, I’ll go to it laughing.”
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
A perfect evening includes rollerblading or a walk in nature, followed by baking something, a cup of tea, and sudoku.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
I’m grateful for the opportunity to help others with the work I do. Our projects often involve interviewing patients about their experiences receiving care. Connecting with patients to understand their journeys and identify opportunities for improvement and then turning those insights into tangible changes is deeply rewarding.
Why did you choose to be a part of this industry?
I enjoy working in consulting because I love solving challenging problems. The issues that arise in healthcare can be complex, often involving a mix of providers, systems and unique circumstances. Consultants are asked to define a problem’s root causes, and then design and implement a strategy to address these. I find the process of working through this complexity, by digging into the details and collaborating closely with colleagues and stakeholders, both intellectually engaging and very fulfilling.
What is the best part about working for your company?
It’s a privilege to work alongside people who encourage me to grow and improve and from whom I learn every day. My team is a delight to work with, and their talent and passion continue to inspire me. They’re also a very fun bunch!
Who at your company has helped you the most?
My performance manager has continuously helped me grow by providing clear, constructive feedback that enhances my development while also entrusting me with full ownership of projects. Beyond this, he leads by example, managing projects strategically and conscientiously, and always with good humour.
Khiari Lespere
Age: 30
Position: Senior Claims Analyst
Employer: Allied World Assurance Company
Education: BSc Environmental Science, Mount Allison University
Are there certain words you live by?
Humility is a word that comes to mind. I believe it’s important to remember that you’re not the smartest person in every room – and that everyone you encounter, personally or professionally, has something valuable to offer whether it’s knowledge, experience or a different perspective.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell myself to take the time to figure out how you learn best instead of just relying on methods that work for others. I’d also say not to shy away from your weaknesses and instead acknowledge and work on them even when it’s uncomfortable.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
One of the best parts about working in the insurance industry is the opportunity for continuous learning. No two days are the same, particularly within casualty and medical malpractice claims. Each claim is unique with its own nuances and challenges, which keeps the work engaging.
What is the best part about working for your company?
The best part about working for Allied World is the strong support I’ve received – both in my role and my professional development. From my initial role as a claims trainee, I’ve been supported in my growth with the company and encouraged to take on new challenges/responsibilities. The working environment is also very welcoming, positive and collaborative, which makes a difference day to day.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
One of my greatest achievements to date was climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It was both a physical and mental challenge that was incredibly rewarding.
What is your loftiest ambition?
My loftiest ambition is to become a recognised leader within the Bermuda insurance market while finding ways to give back to the community by mentoring and supporting the next generation of professionals.
Kalasia Bowen
Age: 27
Position: St. George’s Branch Supervisor
Employer: Butterfield Bank
Education: Currently enrolled at Bermuda College pursuing an Associate of Arts (Business Administration)
What drives you to succeed?
I am driven by challenges. I like to take on difficult tasks that push me out of my comfort zone and require me to learn new skills. When I see that I can overcome a challenge and produce great results, it ignites a sense of accomplishment and pride in me.
Are there certain words you live by?
“You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” It’s a powerful reminder to take risks, seize opportunities and pursue your goals with confidence. By taking action, you open yourself up to possibilities and potential successes.
What are you most grateful for?
Family, but my son especially, he’s my greatest blessing; he brings boundless joy, love and purpose to my life. He’s a reminder of the beauty of innocence, the importance of living in the moment and the depth of unconditional love. I’m so proud and grateful for every moment we share. Being his mother allows me to grow, learn and experience life through his eyes.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I envision myself in a leadership role, driving innovation and growth in my field. I’d like to have expanded my expertise, built a strong network and made significant contributions to my industry. I’m excited to continue learning, taking on new challenges and achieving success in my career.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
Working in my industry offers the opportunity to have a tangible impact on clients’ financial well-being while continuously learning and growing in a dynamic environment.
What is the best part about working for your company?
The best part of working for my company is the people that I interact with, feeling appreciated for my contributions through formal and informal recognition. It’s so refreshing to know that there are kind individuals out there.
Samaria Paynter
Age: 23
Position: Tax Associate
Employer: Deloitte Ltd
Education: Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Major in Accounting
What drives you to succeed?
Being better than I was the day before. I am constantly striving to grow and improve, always competing with myself and the version I want to be. I am also deeply motivated by my faith.
What are you most grateful for?
I’m most grateful for my family. They’ve been by my side since day one – encouraging me to be the best version of myself and teaching me to give myself grace.
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
I’ve always had a passion for music and the arts. Recently, I’ve been focusing on improving my singing skills and dancing. Don’t be surprised if you see me in a pantomime or even on Broadway in the next few years!
What is the best part about working in your industry?
The best part about working in this industry is the mental stimulation. It’s not just a step-by-step job but requires thoughtful analysis and critical thinking, especially when working on the calculations. It’s a good mix of mathematics and English which keeps things challenging and engaging.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
My manager, Ujjawal Gupta. This is my first job stepping into the working world and his guidance has been so helpful. When providing feedback to me, he goes through his comments one-by-one in detail. He’s challenged me with difficult questions and helped me understand my areas for growth.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Through Deloitte, and other avenues, I’ve had opportunities to mentor peers and young people about navigating school, work and life. Recently, I met with former and current dual-enrolment students to give advice to the new cohort. I value the opportunity to speak with the younger generation, offer guidance and share insights.
Adam Smith
Age: 27
Position: Risk and Compliance Analyst
Employer: Liberty Mutual Insurance
Education: BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science, Nottingham Trent University
What drives you to succeed?
A big part of what drives me is wanting to make the most of my potential. If I’m completely honest, I feel there were times earlier in life when I didn’t push myself, and that’s something that’s stuck with me. Now, I’m motivated by proving to my past self that I can be successful and I’m more than capable. I also get a lot of motivation and energy from the people around me, and I find real satisfaction in seeing progress, even in small wins day to day. Whether it’s learning something new or moving a project forward, I enjoy that sense of building momentum and the challenge of progress.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I hope to be a well-rounded leader in the insurance industry. I’d also love to be giving back to the community that’s given me so much, including helping younger Bermudians to learn and settle into the insurance Industry. Oh, and I’ll of course (read: hopefully) have a low single-digit golf handicap.
Why did you choose to be a part of this industry?
Insurance plays such a large role in Bermuda, yet I had little exposure to it growing up. It started with a summer internship at Liberty Mutual, but I was drawn in by how much there is to learn and the potential for personal growth and development. Work always feels meaningful, and I’m surrounded by friendly people who are passionate about what they do.
What is the best part about working for your company?
The culture at Liberty Mutual is genuinely supportive. There’s a strong sense of teamwork, and I’ve been encouraged to grow from day one. It’s a company where new ideas are welcomed, and something that I’ve heard echoed by a few more senior colleagues is that it’s one of the best companies they’ve worked for throughout their career.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
My colleague and incredible mentor, Mike Meade. He has always taken the time to guide me through challenges and share knowledge from his years of experience and I’m truly grateful for the time he’s put into my development.
Tara Bascome
Age: 25
Position: Financial Accountant
Employer: Hiscox Re & ILS
Education: Bachelor of Science in Financial Economics (First Class)
What drives you to succeed?
My hunger for success comes from the ambitions I carry within me. I believe that if God places these dreams on my heart, then they’re meant for me – they’re possible. I remind myself daily that everything I want is on the other side of self-discipline. I might not always feel certain, but faith fuels me – and discipline carries me.
Are there certain words you live by?
“Slow and steady wins the race” keeps me centred. In a world that glorifies speed and hustle, I’ve learned to honour consistent progress. The real power is in showing up every day and simply aiming to be one percent better than I was yesterday.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
The variety. Reinsurance offers so much more than just underwriting. Once you’re in the space, you start to see how many different roles, divisions and specialties exist. There’s a lot of room to move laterally, which gives you the chance to explore different paths and figure out where you thrive. When I joined as a graduate, I rotated through areas like ILS, investments and FP&A. That experience gave me a broader view of the industry and helped me discover where I add the most value.
What is the best part about working for your company?
I really value Hiscox’s commitment to diversity – not just as a policy, but as something we actively practice. There’s a genuine effort to learn from one another, to appreciate different cultures and perspectives and to create space for everyone to feel seen for who they are.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
Natasha Osborne, Head of ILS Finance & Operations. She’s been an incredible mentor and a constant source of support throughout my career so far. She’s advocated for me in rooms I’m not always in and reminded me of my potential on days I’ve doubted myself. I truly look up to her – she’s built a career that shows what’s possible, and she still makes time to support others, which speaks volumes. I’m immensely grateful for the time, dedication and unwavering support she continues to offer me.
Kevin Pacheco
Age: 29
Position: Senior Multinational Client Coordinator – Captive Fronting Insurance
Employer: AIG
Education: Bachelor of Business Administration, Mount Saint Vincent University
What are you most grateful for?
I’m most grateful for the people who believed in me even when I did not believe in myself – especially my family, mentors, and close friends. Their support and encouragement have made all the difference.
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
I usually unwind by spending time with family or being active. Whether that is playing sports, going for runs or taking some time to reflect and reset.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I hope to be in a leadership or managerial position within the insurance industry, where I can help mentor and guide others, particularly young Bermudians who may be unsure of their own path.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
Working in multinational captive fronting insurance gives me the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with clients and brokers on a global level. Every client brings their own challenges and expectations, and I enjoy being at the forefront of solving those complex needs.
What is the best part about working for your company?
I’ve been fortunate enough to work alongside colleagues who are not only knowledgeable in what they do, but also supportive of those that are still learning and growing. AIG puts real effort into investing in young talent, and their commitment to career development has made a difference in my journey. It is encouraging to be in an environment where growth is supported and expected.
