A brilliant cohort of up-and-comers, this years Rising Stars are immensely driven and infallible in their pursuit of success. Though they derive from differing backgrounds, and they work in different sectors, together they prove Bermuda’s future shines bright.
Kiara Virgil-Wainwright
Age: 23
Position: Senior Associate
Employer: PwC
Education: Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Georgia State University
What drives you to succeed?
Dreams! We are always taught to dream big, and once you start dreaming big it is not enough to just keep dreaming but you must implement actions towards your dreams. This keeps me going in a forward direction. I want to be the best role model that I can be to those around me. Whether that is friends or family—I want them to know that hard work and dedication is rewarded.
What are you most grateful for?
Opportunities. God has graced my life with opportunities that I know are not of my hand or any other human hand.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I’ll be honest. I don’t know where precisely I see myself in ten years. That’s not to say that I don’t have a growth path I want to follow. Ultimately, my goal over the next ten years is to grow organically within the industry. I would prefer not to pigeonhole myself by striving for only one goal in a growing industry.
What advice would you give your younger self?
To my younger self: Leave your comfort zone. You are more capable than you know.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
The most fulfilling part of audit is the ability to work on different clients which allows me to always learn something new.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Without hesitation, I would consider my greatest achievement to date is passing all four of the US certified public accounting (CPA) exams. The journey was the most emotionally, physically and mentally exhausting one that I have ever taken in my life. However, the reward of obtaining my CPA licence makes it all worthwhile.
Marley Simons
Age: 24
Position: Operational Risk & Compliance Analyst
Employer: Clarien Bank Ltd.
Education: ICA Certified in Compliance, Certificate of Data Analysis,
Certificate in Mastering Excel, ABA Personal Banking Certificate.
What drives you to succeed?
I am driven by being able to tell a different story. I didn’t have the opportunity to go to university once I graduated high school. I had the grades, family support and the desire for higher education, but unfortunately the opportunity never actually presented itself. Not having a university degree in the corporate world is very uncommon, and we are led to believe that we can’t be the best version of ourselves without it. My being who I am, I accepted the challenge to prove to myself that if I worked hard, remained ambitious and showed up as myself in every room that I entered, success would be limitless. A small piece of myself that once made me insecure is now the fuel for a fire that grows brighter with every new accomplishment. While I still support higher education and the pursuit of a degree, those without can still be just as successful.
Are there certain words you live by?
“May the flowers remind you why the rain was so necessary” is a quote that I keep close to my heart. It suggests that challenges and difficult times may be necessary for the personal development and resilience that bring positive outcomes.
What is the best part about working for your company?
Clarien believes in the personal development of employees. Progression plans are put in place to emphasise self-awareness, clear goal setting and resource identification to facilitate career advancement. As a younger employee, it’s amazing to be assured that there is room for growth within the company and that I’m employed by an institution that supports my personal and professional growth.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
Shakira Smith-Caines, manager of personal banking; Rachael Lambert, SVP head of compliance and operational risk; Jennifer Wild, SVP head of human resources. These women have shown me that there are no limitations on the definition of success or how successful women can be. While juggling both careers and families, they have still taken time out to invest in my future. In all different ways, these women have shown me that career development is important, but staying true to who you are and what you believe in while climbing the ladder is equally fundamental.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Outside of Clarien, I am also an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship is a challenge on its own; it requires consistent attention and financial risk. My greatest achievement is being able to grow and expand my business while still climbing the corporate ladder. Toast & Taste is an experience, offering both private mobile mixology classes and mobile bar services. Over the course of four years, I have been able to remain dedicated to the end goal of what Toast & Taste will become while still having energy for my career. Creating a balanced lifestyle has produced a foundation that has equipped me to cope with unexpected obstacles and beneficial multitasking skills.
Kordell De La Chevotiere
Age: 28
Position: Personal Banker
Employer: Clarien Bank Ltd.
Education: Currently enrolled at Mount Saint Vincent University pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration, major in accounting
What drives you to succeed?
My drive to succeed is deeply rooted in my desire to push my boundaries and explore the extent of my potential. I am motivated by an inner need to challenge myself, continuously improve, and see how far I can go in my personal and professional journey. I want to create a life that reflects my dedication to continuous advancement.
Are there certain words you live by?
“Do what you love.” It’s crucial to love what you do because passion fuels fulfillment, and creativity makes even the toughest challenges enjoyable. If you haven’t yet found what you love, ensure that your current path aligns with your long-term passions. Embrace the journey, seek opportunities for growth, and maintain a positive mindset. Every step forward, even the ones through uncomfortable territory, is part of the journey towards doing what you love.
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
It might sound strange, but I enjoy unwinding at the end of the day by staying at work with a few co-workers. It gives us a chance to talk, troubleshoot and reflect on the day without the constant ringing phones, e-mails and noise. I believe the best work gets done after hours. When I can, I also like to meet with friends to relax and socialise.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years, I see myself in a senior position within the banking industry, possibly in private banking or lending. I also aim to have completed my university degree and obtained additional certifications to enhance my expertise.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Embrace challenges as opportunities and don’t be afraid to take risks. In my younger years, I turned down opportunities because I chose comfort over growth. Fear held me back, stifling my potential and preventing me from seizing valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. Now, I understand the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
The best part about working in the banking industry is the ability to make a tangible difference in people’s lives by helping them achieve their financial goals. It’s rewarding to see clients succeed and know that I played a part in their journey.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
So many people from my company have helped me out, but if I were to single out someone pivotal in my growth, it would be Shakira Smith-Caines. She manages the personal banking team and has an impressive ability to understand people. From my first day, Shakira has pushed me and encouraged me to reach my goals. She leads by example, which is extremely important to me.
Ojeda Smith
Age: 27
Position: Associate, Corporate (Insurance)
Employer: Appleby
Education: Bachelors (Hons) Criminology, Nottingham Trent University; Graduate Diploma in Law, Nottingham Trent University; LLM Legal Practice Course, Nottingham Trent University; Admitted to the Bermuda Bar in 2021
Are there certain words you live by?
The word “relentless” defines my approach to life’s challenges. It’s not just about working hard, it’s about consistently showing up, giving my all, and facing every obstacle head-on. This unwavering determination has fuelled my journey, allowing me to overcome adversity and achieve my goals. Even when faced with setbacks, I never give up. Instead, I learn from them and come back even stronger. It’s a constant push to improve, to refine my skills, and to keep moving forward no matter what.
Why did you choose to be a part of this industry?
The legal industry appealed to me for its perfect blend of intellectual challenge and the potential to make a real difference. The constant need to analyse complex legal issues, research intricate details, and craft creative solutions keeps my mind constantly engaged. There’s a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing my work can have a positive impact on people’s lives.
What is the best part about working for your company?
What truly excites me about Appleby, particularly the insurance team, is the early exposure to high-caliber transactions and deals. Even as an associate, I am actively involved, which is an invaluable learning experience. I appreciate the trust and flexibility senior lawyers and partners place in me as it empowers me to take ownership of tasks and contribute meaningfully to the deals that I am involved in.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
Office managing partner Brad Adderley has been an incredible mentor. His knowledge, unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental to my growth. Even with his busy schedule, he always makes himself available to offer guidance and push me to excel. I am eternally grateful for his time and dedication. I also owe a big debt of gratitude to partner Matthew Carr, my first mentor at Appleby. He laid a strong foundation with the knowledge and skills I still rely on today. I would also like to extend thanks to my fellow associates and other senior lawyers and partners for fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Getting called to the Bermuda Bar on November 26, 2021, has definitely been my greatest achievement—best day of my life!
What is your loftiest ambition?
My loftiest ambition has two parts, one focused on professional excellence and the other on contributing to the wider field. Firstly, I aspire to become a trusted attorney to leading corporations, navigating them through complex transactions and challenges with strategic foresight. I envision myself at the forefront of legal developments within the corporate landscape. However, my ambition extends beyond individual success. I’m passionate about fostering a more inclusive and ethical legal industry. I see myself mentoring students and junior lawyers, especially those from diverse backgrounds. I hope to leave a legacy of excellence and integrity that inspires the next generation of lawyers.
Kiara Wilkinson
Age: 29
Position: Associate, Dispute Resolution
Employer: Appleby
Education: Bachelors (Hons) Criminology, Kingston University; Graduate Diploma in Law, BPP Law School (London); Bar Professional Training Course, BPP Law School (London); LLM, BPP Law School (London); Admitted to the Bar of England and Wales in 2021; Admitted to the Bermuda Bar in 2022
What drives you to succeed?
There are a combination of factors that define my personal route to success—those are competency, reputation and impact. Every day I strive to be more competent than I was the day before. Reputation is everything and can lead to recognition in the community, opportunities for career advancement and a strong professional network. Lastly, lawyers are able to influence societal change through landmark cases, advocacy, policy work, etc. Being able to make an impact in some way, shape or form is a motivator of mine.
Are there certain words you live by?
Remain present! Appreciate the moment as a unique and valuable opportunity.
What are you most grateful for?
My support system. Their unwavering support allows me to strike a healthy balance between working as a lawyer while conquering motherhood.
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
Spend time with my new little family. They ground me and remind me that family is most important and irreplaceable.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
A partner at a law firm, a subject matter expert, a great mentor, a pillar in my community and the best mom I can possibly be.
What advice would you give your younger self?
You are good enough. Never change who you are to fit someone’s idea of who/what they would like you to be. I would also tell myself that lawyers can look like me and be successful and that the two are not mutually exclusive.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
The continuous learning environment. No two days are the same, especially in litigation.
Why did you choose to be a part of this industry?
My outgoing personality coupled with my strong intellect and desire to challenge everything led me to believe I would be a great lawyer.
What is the best part about working for your company?
The ability to learn from the best of the best. The easy access to some of the best lawyers on the island is a benefit that I recognise I have and am very grateful for.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
I am lucky enough to work in a department where everyone has supported my professional journey in one way or another. My (official and unofficial) dispute resolution mentors have always been very supportive of my professional development and growth since I started with Appleby. When I began my pupilage in the dispute resolution department, I was warmly welcomed by partner and practice group head John Wasty, who facilitated an experience that allowed me to work with every member of the team to become a well-versed lawyer at an early stage of my career.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Personally, being a great mother. Professionally, being called to the bar in multiple jurisdictions.
Ashley Yearwood
Age: 29
Position: Excess Casualty Underwriting Assistant
Employer: AXA XL
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Denison University and
Advanced Diploma in Graphic Design from George Brown College
Are there certain words you live by?
Be yourself, even when it is difficult. Being overly comparative can really distract you from your own personal growth and with all the cultural and societal pressures, it can be difficult to present your authentic self. However, the courage it takes to understand your beliefs and establish your own identity can help you in achieving what I think we all want, to be happy.
What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my family and the network of people who never fail to be an unwavering support system to me. My parents and grandparents sacrificed a lot to provide me the opportunity for a great education that allowed my sister and me to follow our passions without question. I can track every success in my life back to them providing me with a great foundation on which to build. I could not ask for a better support system.
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
I am by nature a very creative person. I often spend my evenings practising my creative passions whether it be sewing a new wardrobe or making jewelry. I like to say that you never know what I could be up to next. I also have a passion for giving back to the organisations and communities that have helped me. Last year, as chef de mission, I led the Bermuda Youth Commonwealth team to Trinidad and Tobago. I also coach swimming at Harbour Swim Club.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to embrace the uncomfortable. I spent a lot of time wanting to get to the point where things felt comfortable, and then staying there because I never wanted to feel the fear of failing. It took a long time to realise that everything I have accomplished has started with this, sometimes overwhelming, sense of fear. So, I would tell myself, and I hope I would listen, that you don’t grow when you’re comfortable.
What is the best part about working for your company?
I have had the opportunity to work with an amazing group of professionals at AXA XL. Three industry professionals, Page Grundmuller, Sandy Powell, and Karen Smith, have been so instrumental in my learning and development. I have felt completely supported and inspired by their passion for the industry and their extensive knowledge.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Being able to use all my skills and knowledge from my past experiences as an athlete, a swimming instructor, and a graphic designer to do my job to the best of my ability. When I chose insurance as a career path, a lot of people asked if I felt my graphic design experience was a waste of time, and that made me want to find ways to use those creative problem-solving skills in any role I had going forward, and I truly believe I have been able to do that.
Christian Hillen
Age: 29
Position: Assistant Underwriter, Property Catastrophe Reinsurance
Employer: Aspen Bermuda Limited
Education: Western University (Canada); CPA Bermuda
What drives you to succeed?
This may sound a bit cliché, but I’m motivated by doing well. I really enjoy doing a good job and being proud of a final product. I used to find it challenging when given work that was new, but now I see it as a great opportunity to learn something.
Are there certain words you live by?
“Closed mouths don’t get fed.” This doesn’t apply to every situation, but it has helped me aspire to where I am today. When I started my career, I was unsure of how to approach certain situations, such as conversations on performance or career development. I would rarely seek out advice with other people due to my fear of appearing uninformed in their eyes. Once I began asking for guidance and letting my goals be known, I saw an immediate difference. For instance, when I spoke with our CEO at Aspen Bermuda Limited, Mark Pickering, about my desire to transition from capital management to underwriting, he gave me great advice. If I hadn’t expressed my professional aspirations, I may never have had the opportunity to be in the role where I now see myself for the long term.
What are you most grateful for?
Opportunity. I’ve been very fortunate and privileged to be given opportunities to succeed during important stages of my life. My education in Bermuda, for example, prepared me to attend a university abroad, which in turn, prepared me to attain my CPA and eventually move into an underwriting career. I’ve taken each of these opportunities to stretch myself and obtain my goals. I’ve worked very hard, but I am also very fortunate for the opportunities that have been presented to me along the way.
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
I love to golf, play video games and spend time with my girlfriend and my family—these activities are my happy place.
What is the best part about working for your company?
I would have to say the people. I’ve worked on two teams at Aspen as well as collaborated alongside a multitude of other teams. Most people want to help and see that you succeed. It’s a very positive and nurturing work environment.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
Mark Pickering and Giselle Yeung. Before joining the underwriting team, I worked on the capital management team, which is led by Mark, and Giselle was my line manager. Giselle encouraged me to engage in conversations about my career and seek out my goals. As the boss and eventually the CEO of Aspen Bermuda, Mark was still very approachable and easy to work with. Both showed me how hard work pays off. It was obvious from day one that they wanted me to succeed at Aspen. I’m hopeful I’ve absorbed positive attributes from them, with respect to both work and life.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Obtaining my CPA. Even though in my current role I don’t use it, attaining this designation is an achievement I’m very proud of. The many late nights, hours and days spent studying paid off and the knowledge did not go to waste. I remember taking a tax exam at 7:00 p.m. one Saturday thinking, “Is this really worth it?” Looking back now, I know it was!
Ashley Farrington
Age: 24
Position: Audit Senior, Financial Services – Insurance Audit
Employer: KPMG in Bermuda
Education: Bachelor of Commerce Degree (Dual concentration in accounting and strategic management), McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Chartered Professional Accountant Designation (CPA), Atlantic School of Business
Are there certain words you live by?
The past three years I’ve worked towards establishing a professional reputation locally, which involved a substantial level of sacrifice. This is particularly because I had to give up [a lot] to pursue my Chartered Professional Accounting designation (CPA) whilst balancing full-time employment. My mantra has been “nothing worth it comes with ease,” reframed as, “short-term sacrifice for long-term gain.” These statements ground me and keep me collected during times of turbulence, as I recognise with each conflict comes learning I will be able to apply to the future as a more refined and conscious version of myself.
What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful to have a tremendously supportive family. They have been there to celebrate me during my triumphs without fail, and equally as present during instances of uneasiness and uncertainty. In some of your least flattering lights, you will home in on those who truly have your best interest at heart.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I envision myself as a woman who has morphed into a leader who has led with empathy and been honest to herself throughout the process; someone who has not lost sight of her core values. Additionally, I’d like to be an individual who is approachable, yet still decisive when required; someone who has wedged her foot in the door to bring other women up with her. I would like to be operating within an executive capacity either remaining within public accounting or branching out into industry.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
I currently work as an audit senior in the insurance audit department of KPMG in Bermuda. As is well-known, Bermuda is a leading overseas captive domicile with a critical segment of our economy driven by the (re)insurance industry. It is for this reason that having the opportunity to execute work that feels specialised in nature from the global stage, can be discerned as meaningful and incentivising for some.
What is the best part about working for your company?
Without a doubt the people that I have the privilege of interacting with on a day-to-day basis. Being surrounded by down-to-earth and phenomenally intelligent individuals has been a significant opportunity for personal growth. It is an honour to feel constantly challenged and not feel as though you are the smartest person in the room.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
The assistance I have received from KPMG expanded beyond funding my CPA school and exam takings. Rather, it has become an incredibly personal experience filled with mentorship and camaraderie where memories have been built for a lifetime. It wouldn’t be appropriate for me to single out a specific individual I credit my progression to, but rather would like to give thanks to my past and present team members, managers and partners.
Ariana Caines
Age: 29
Position: Senior Underwriter, Special Risk
Employer: Liberty Mutual Bermuda
Education: LL.B Hons (First Class), BPTC
What drives you to succeed?
My faith and my family.
Are there certain words you live by?
“Short-term sacrifice for long-term gain” and my favourite verses from the Bible, Philippians 4:4–9
What are you most grateful for?
My family and my “Auntie” tribe. I could not have accomplished my goals without their love and support.
What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?
With music! My parents are former radio deejays, and my sister, Kassie, is a vocal artist. Music has always been a part of my life. After a hectic day, I love putting together a playlist and dancing.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I hope to do more work in the public or third sectors. I would love to be able to use my skills to better our community.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Take time to be present and celebrate. At times, I’ve treated my accomplishments as mere stepping stones to another achievement or title. Along the way, I would forget to stop and acknowledge that I was in the exact moment I had prayed for previously. I am still learning this lesson, but I have improved at being present in my celebratory moments and expressing gratitude to myself and everyone who helped me reach my goals.
What is the best part about working in your industry?
The variety in my work. I love to work on puzzles in my spare time, so I knew I needed to spend my days doing engaging, complex and fun work. No two deals in special risk are the same, and there is always something new to learn. I can confidently say, “I love my job” which is incredible.
What is the best part about working for your company?\
The people. I come to work with a smile because I know I will spend at least eight hours working with talented and kind people—it is such a privilege and a gift.
Who at your company has helped you the most?
I am grateful to my direct supervisor, Joanna Din, who constantly provides opportunities for me to grow and develop within my role. I also appreciate Kai Musson and Shaza Murray, who have been mentors during my transition into the insurance industry. Finally, our chief underwriting officer Dan Rance and president Steve Horton have never been too busy to answer a question or provide guidance. When they say their doors are open to talk, they genuinely mean it.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
My Nana, Dame Lois Browne-Evans, passed away when I was twelve years old, long before I achieved my ambition of obtaining my legal qualifications. However, I was still able to have her presence with me when I qualified as a barrister. During my Call to the Bar in England and Wales, I wore her wig and carried her wig “tin” with her name embossed across the front. It was one of my proudest moments. When I was called to the Bermuda Bar, my hearing was held in the Dame Lois Browne-Evans building. It was a full-circle moment for my family, and it still means so much to me.
