The Government of Bermuda, through the Department of Workforce Development, recognised 32 Bermudian scholars at its 2026 Overseas Scholarship Awards Reception held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
The recipients comprise 16 new awardees and 16 continuing scholars pursuing qualifications in fields important to Bermuda’s social and economic development, including healthcare, engineering, marine and biological sciences, business and finance, technology, hospitality, social work, psychology, criminal justice and the creative arts.
The scholarship programme supports Strategic Priority 5 – Investing in People of Bermuda’s Economic Development Strategy 2023–2027. This priority recognises that Bermuda’s continued success depends on Bermudians having the skills, qualifications and professional networks required to participate fully in the economy.
The awards also advance key goals of Bermuda’s National Youth Employment Strategy by increasing access to education and training, supporting young Bermudians in obtaining qualifications relevant to the local labour market, expanding career support from education through early employment, encouraging STEAM-related educational pursuits, and supporting Bermudians to return home and participate in the local economy.
The Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, congratulated the scholars and highlighted the Government’s investment in their education and Bermuda’s future workforce, stating, “Through these scholarships, we are investing not only in the education of our young people, but also in Bermuda’s future workforce. We want our scholars to acquire the knowledge, qualifications and experience they need and ultimately return home prepared to invest their talents in Bermuda.”
“Our National Youth Employment Strategy is focused on creating educational and employment pathways for young Bermudians. These scholarships are an important part of that commitment because they provide support at a critical stage of each recipient’s educational and professional journey.”
Minister Hayward also encouraged the recipients to remain committed to their studies and maintain their connection with the Department of Workforce Development throughout their educational journeys, adding, “As you pursue your studies, I encourage you to remain connected to the Department, its staff, programmes and initiatives. When you are ready to return home, or if you encounter gaps between your qualifications and available opportunities, our team is here to help you reconnect, realign your aspirations and identify an appropriate pathway forward.”
“Bermuda needs your talent, your knowledge and your commitment. We are investing in you today because we believe in your ability to contribute to and help lead Bermuda’s future.”
The Minister also thanked the parents and families whose encouragement and sacrifice have supported the scholars throughout their educational journeys. He acknowledged the Department of Workforce Development team for administering the scholarship programme and providing continuing guidance and career development support.
Acting Director of Workforce Development, Mrs Sonya M. Clarke, said, “These awards form part of a broader education-to-employment pathway. Our responsibility does not end when a scholarship is presented. We want our scholars to remain connected with the Department so that we can continue supporting their transition from education into meaningful employment.”
“As they prepare to return to Bermuda, our Career Development team can help them assess available opportunities, understand the local labour market and align their qualifications and aspirations with Bermuda’s workforce needs.”
New 2026 Overseas Scholarship Recipients
- Akina Williams – Marine Science
- Alaysia Swan – Nursing
- Daetona Simons – Marketing & Communications
- Hannah Trott-Smith – Radiology Sciences
- Isaiah Fraser – Engineering
- Keren Smith – Psychology
- Kyii Simons-Henry – Science
- Natalia Dill – Business Management
- Naziah Robinson – Nursing
- Sanaa Berkeley – Microbiology & Immunology
- Sarai Packwood – Creative Writing
- Shayla Cann – Computer Science & Religious Studies
- Shayla Robinson – Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics
- Starr Bowen – Nursing
- Willow Hartmann – Criminology
- Zuri Swan – Science Accounting
Ongoing Scholarship Support
In addition to this year's awardees, the Department of Workforce Development continues to provide $10,000 scholarships to 16 students pursuing undergraduate degrees in Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, and the United Kingdom.
The 2026 Scholarship Awards Reception provided an opportunity to celebrate the determination and achievements of the recipients and reaffirm the Government’s commitment to developing a skilled, resilient, and future-ready Bermudian workforce.
The Government’s message to the 2026 scholars is clear: Bermuda is investing in them today so that they can return, contribute and help shape the Island’s future.
