The Tribune

By FAY SIMMONS

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

TWO Bahamian students are heading to university this fall with financial support, professional experience, and a clear vision for their future careers after being named recipients of the 2026 EY Jamaine McFall Bahamas Scholarship.

Claire Bethel, a recent graduate of St. Andrew’s International School, and Queen’s College graduate Avani Sawyer have each been awarded the scholarship, which will support their university education as they pursue degrees in accounting.

Ms Bethel will begin her freshman year at Georgia State University, where she plans to study accounting. Driven by a commitment to academic and personal growth, she said the scholarship and her experience with EY have given her greater confidence as she prepares to enter university and begin building a career in the profession.

“I am beyond grateful to EY Bahamas for awarding me this scholarship and for giving me the incredible opportunity to intern with such an amazing team,” Ms Bethel said.

During her internship, Ms Bethel said she was exposed to new experiences and surrounded by professionals who encouraged her to learn and develop.

“Every day brought something new to learn, and being surrounded by such supportive and inspiring professionals has only strengthened my confidence and excitement for my future,” she said.

Ms Sawyer, a 2026 graduate of Queen’s College, will attend Howard University this fall to pursue a degree in accounting. She has set her sights on becoming a Certified Public Accountant and hopes to use her education and professional experiences to make a positive impact in her community.

For Ms Sawyer, receiving the scholarship is not only financial support for her university journey, but also an opportunity to attend the school she has dreamed of attending.

“Receiving this scholarship from EY is truly an honour,” Ms Sawyer said. “It has given me the confidence and support to pursue my education at my dream school, Howard University, as I work toward my  goal of becoming a Certified Public Accountant.”

The scholarship is valued at US$30,000 per year, providing significant financial assistance as the students pursue their higher education.

Beyond tuition support, the program is designed to give recipients practical exposure to the professional world. Scholarship recipients participate in an eight-week summer internship with EY and are also offered the opportunity for full-time employment with the firm after successfully completing their university studies.

For both ladies, the combination of education and professional experience provides an opportunity to begin preparing for their careers while still at university.

Ms Sawyer said she is particularly mindful of the legacy behind the scholarship, which Honor’s the late Jamaine McFall.

“I will do my very best to uphold the kindness, diligence, and hardworking spirit of the late Jamaine McFall, whose legacy continues to inspire students like me,” she said.

The scholarship recipients were selected for their academic achievement, ambition, and interest in the accounting profession.

Donillo Culmer, EY Bahamas Scholarship Committee Leader, said both students demonstrated qualities that made them deserving recipients.

“We are delighted to award the EY Jamaine McFall Bahamas Scholarship to Claire and Avani,” Mr Culmer said. “They exemplify academic excellence and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the profession.”

He added that EY looks forward to supporting the students as they continue developing academically and professionally.

The scholarship reflects EY Bahamas’ broader commitment to supporting young Bahamians as they pursue higher education and prepare for careers.

Michele Thompson, EY Regional Managing Partner for The Bahamas, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands, said education plays an important role in helping young people reach their potential.

Tiffany Norris-Pilcher, EY Bahamas Country Managing Partner, said investing in students such as Bethel and Sawyer also contributes to the development of Bahamian talent.

“Claire and Avani are exceptional students, and we are proud to support their education and career aspirations,” she said. “Investing in the next generation of Bahamian talent strengthens our community.”

As Ms Bethel prepares to begin her studies at Georgia State University and Ms Sawyer gets ready to start at Howard University, both students are looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities that university life will bring.

With their sights set on accounting careers and the support of the EY Jamaine McFall Bahamas Scholarship behind them, the two young women are entering the next stage of their education with ambition, purpose, and a commitment to making the most of the opportunities ahead.