HAMILTON, Bermuda – The 6th Annual BEDC Summer Student Entrepreneur Program concluded with an awards and graduation ceremony for nine young entrepreneurs on Friday, August 25th. The event was attended by the Hon. Jason P. Hayward, JP, MP, Minister, BEDC Chairman Jache Adams, BEDC staff, mentors, family, and friends, who all gathered to celebrate the achievements of the participating students.
Minister Hayward congratulated the students on their dedication and hard work, saying, “I am sure you have learned on this journey that starting a business requires effort and commitment. But in the long run, it can be highly rewarding. Your perseverance has led you to achieve success and reach your initial goals.” He added, “Congratulations on your dedication to your businesses and service to the community. As young entrepreneurs, you are making a difference, and tonight, we celebrate your achievements.”
The students who received their certificates for completing the program included:
- Jahmir Celestine of The Nail Medic
- Teneik Wallen of Dolled By Neiks
- Essence Davis of Oh My Cake Bakery
- Jazarah Codrington-Edmead of Serene Scenes
- Marcus Simons-Rewan of Special Misfits
- Nico Bean of Flow by Nico
- Shammai Smith of Forever Green
- Zanna Minors of Braidz by Za
- Zea Swainson of Paintz
Each student had the opportunity to present their business and share how the SSEP helped them grow as entrepreneurs. Reflecting on his experience, Nico Bean said, “It’s been great, and I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to start or grow a business. The support from both the BEDC and my fellow participants was invaluable. I’ve learned so much about business and made connections that could lead to future collaborations.”
The SSEP is designed for students aged 14-21, offering them an opportunity to earn a livable wage and save money over the summer period while gaining valuable business experience. The eight-week program aims to inspire young people in the local community to see entrepreneurship as a viable career option and to equip them with the skills needed to succeed.
To add a competitive edge, the students also competed to earn the most revenue from their businesses, with the top earners receiving additional financial rewards. This year’s top performers were:
- Zanna Minors: 1st place, awarded $1,000
- Zea Swainson: 2nd place, awarded $750
- Shammai Smith: 3rd place, awarded $500
These impressive young entrepreneurs collectively generated over $17,000 in sales in just six weeks, demonstrating their determination and entrepreneurial abilities, which bode well for the future of Bermuda’s business community.
Special awards were also presented to students to highlight their exceptional efforts during the program:
- Best Business Branding Award: Zea Swainson
- The “Get Up & Go” Award: Zanna Minors
- Innovation Award: Marcus Simons-Rewan of Special Misifts.
- Most Growth Award: Shammai Smith
- Best Business Pivot Award: Jazarah Codrington-Edmead
- Best Social Media Presence Award: Nico Bean
- Creativity Award: Essence Davis
The students were able to showcase and sell their products and services with support from several community partners. The City of Hamilton waived vending fees for the Meet & Greet at City Hall Lawn, Washington Properties sponsored a free space in the Washington Mall, and the Chamber of Commerce waived fees for Harbour Nights.
These partnerships played a crucial role in providing the young entrepreneurs with practical business experience, fostering the growth of a strong and vibrant small business community in Bermuda.
Deshun Simmons, Assistant Communication & Development Officer and Program Coordinator, expressed pride in the students’ progress, saying, “I am very proud of each student. I've witnessed tremendous growth in all of them. The goal of the program goes beyond helping participants earn money over the summer; it is about nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset that will support them in their future careers, whether in the business world or as entrepreneurs.”