The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce is calling on professionals across the Cayman Islands to become mentors for the 2026/27 Mentoring Cayman programme and make a lasting difference in the life of a young person. Since 2002, Mentoring Cayman has paired high-achieving Year 11 students with experienced professionals from the business community and public sector, giving students valuable exposure to careers, workplace culture and the guidance needed to make informed decisions about their future through a six-month programme. The Chamber is now accepting mentor applications, with a deadline of 30 October 2026. "Every successful professional can point to someone who encouraged them, opened a door for them or helped them see possibilities they had not considered before," said Jada Ramoon, Programme Coordinator. "Mentoring Cayman creates those life-changing connections, and we are looking for professionals who are willing to share their experience, knowledge and encouragement with the next generation." For many mentors, the experience is as rewarding as it is impactful. "Being part of the Chamber of Commerce Mentorship programme for the third consecutive year fills me with a sense of fulfilment and responsibility towards my mentees. Guiding them in making decisions for their bright future is truly rewarding," said mentor Jed Davis Ancheta. Throughout the six-month programme, mentors provide guidance, host workplace visits and help students gain a better understanding of the opportunities available to them. Many participants say the relationships built during the programme continue long after the formal mentoring cycle ends. Former mentee Diedre Edwards recalls the impact her mentor had on her own career journey. "My mentor was a Chemical Engineer. Over the weeks we got really close and I learnt a lot about Consolidated Water. I plan to keep in touch with her," she said. The programme has created more than 1,000 mentor-mentee partnerships over the past two decades, helping young Caymanians build confidence, explore career paths and develop important life skills. The Chamber also extends its sincere thanks to the programme's current sponsors, Cayman Water Company, Rocky's Diamonds, Aquilae Consulting and Cayman Registry, whose support helps make the programme possible. Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available for organisations interested in supporting youth development and workforce readiness. Individuals interested in becoming mentors are encouraged to apply before 30 October 2026. For more information, contact Jada Ramoon at the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce on 743-9124 or visit www.caymanchamber.ky. They can also access the online application form: https://tinyurl.com/bdkm9fzj