Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce Launches 2025 Mentoring Cayman Programme at Opening Reception

The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce officially launched its flagship youth development initiative, Mentoring Cayman, at an inspiring Opening Reception held this evening at the Intergenerational Hub. The event marked the beginning of a six-month journey for high-achieving Year 11 students and their mentors from the local business community and Government. Now in its 23rd year, Mentoring Cayman continues to play a pivotal role in Building a Future Ready Workforce, one of the Chamber’s core advocacy pillars. The programme pairs students with influential leaders, offering them a unique opportunity to gain realworld insights, develop confidence, and build relationships that can last a lifetime. Established in 2002 in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, Mentoring Cayman has impacted more than 1,000 students and mentors over the years. Each cycle runs for six months and includes: • Regular one-on-one meetings between mentor and mentee • Workplace visits, where mentees shadow their mentors in a professional setting to learn about workplace culture and career possibilities Students are nominated by their school principals, while mentors are selected based on shared interests and a commitment to guiding Cayman’s next generation of leaders. Tuesday’s reception provided the first opportunity for mentors and mentees to meet, share aspirations, and begin building connections that will shape the months ahead. The event featured remarks from Chamber President Omari Corbin, who underscored the programme’s transformative impact on Cayman’s youth and its alignment with the Chamber’s vision for a dynamic, future-ready economy. “To our mentors, thank you for generously giving your time, your wisdom, and your commitment to helping shape the next generation,” said Corbin.
“As President of the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce, I am proud of what Mentoring Cayman has accomplished over the years. But even more, I am enthusiastic and optimistic about where it is headed. Each year, we see the programme grow—in participation, in impact, and in community support.” Voices from the Programme Mentor Sefand Busby-Thomhill, who works in financial services, was meeting her mentee, Imari-Lee Ramoon. “I remember how impactful it was for me to have a mentor at this age. I joined the mentorship programme so I could give back and help a young person chart their path forward,” Sefand said. Imari-lee said: I’m really looking forward to an opportunity to learn from someone and gain experience in the working world.” Mentor Roger Southam, a real estate agent, said: “The Mentoring Programme is an amazing and wonderful opportunity to learn and grow and develop, and I get as much out of it as the students do.” His mentee, Summer McLaughlin, said, “This programme will broaden my horizons and unlock amazing opportunities.” Manuel Thomaz, General Manager of Cayman Water, has been a mentor for several years in succession. “I love being with students and sharing my professional experience with them and helping them navigate the difficult choices they have to make,” he said. His mentee, 15-year-old Garrison French, said: “I am interested in engineering. I am hoping this programme can help me with that.” These personal stories illustrate how Mentoring Cayman goes beyond traditional workshadowing. It equips students with practical skills, confidence, and a network of support that can influence their academic and career paths for years to come. Sponsors and Support The Chamber extends its gratitude to the programme’s sponsors, including the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, Cox Lumber Ltd., Consolidated Water Cayman Ltd., Rocky’s Diamond Gallery, and Aquilae Consulting, whose commitment makes this initiative possible. Looking Ahead Over the next six months, mentors and mentees will participate in structured activities designed to inspire, challenge, and prepare students for success. The Chamber encourages businesses and professionals to consider joining future cycles of Mentoring Cayman and help shape the leaders of tomorrow. For more information about Mentoring Cayman or to become a mentor, contact jada.ramoon@caymanchamber.ky, call 743-9126 or visit www.caymanchamber.ky.