Mentoring Cayman Careers Day Inspires Students and Advances Future-Ready Workforce Development

Fourteen Year 11 students representing a wide cross-section of Cayman’s secondary schools gathered at the Chamber of Commerce Conference Room on Friday, 13 March 2026, for the annual Mentoring Cayman Educational & Careers Day. While the group was small, the level of engagement was exceptional—making for a day of meaningful discovery, practical learning, and genuine inspiration. The event directly supports the Chamber’s advocacy agenda, particularly its focus on Building a Future-Ready Workforce. Mentoring Cayman remains one of the Chamber’s most impactful initiatives, bridging the transition from public to private education systems and into the workplace by connecting students with experienced professionals, practical skills, and real-world insights. Careers Day has long been a cornerstone of the programme, which for more than two decades has paired students with mentors from across the public and private sectors. This year’s presenters represented a diverse range of industries—from medicine and engineering to media production, entrepreneurship, law, and social services— demonstrating the breadth of opportunities available within Cayman’s evolving economy. Students began the morning with a dynamic skills workshop led by HR specialist Melissa Comparin, who guided them through goal setting, résumé development, and interview preparation. Her session set a practical and empowering tone for the day. Throughout the programme, speakers shared personal journeys and candid insights into their professions. Dr. Vineetha Binoy highlighted the importance of compassion in healthcare, while Purdy Gouveia explored the problem-solving nature of engineering. Keevon Douglas introduced students to Cayman’s growing media industry, and Hannah Howe of Walkers encouraged students to think broadly about opportunities within the legal profession. Entrepreneur Luigi Moxam, owner of the Cabana restaurant and founder of the 345 apparel brand, delivered one of the day’s most memorable sessions. Reflecting on his journey from selling T-shirts roadside to building a successful brand, he emphasised resilience, purpose, and belief in one’s vision. The impact of the day was evident in the students’ reflections. Garrison French, 16, noted his growing interest in environmental engineering, while Clive Eden, 15, said the experience helped him weigh options between engineering and finance. Justin Chung, 15, described his newfound understanding of the breadth of corporate law as “transformative.” The Chamber also used the opportunity to highlight the launch of its new Tourism Matters animated video series, part of the Growth Matters campaign. Introduced during the session, the series helps students and the wider community better understand the economic importance of tourism and the wide range of career opportunities within the sector. This initiative further supports the Chamber’s commitment to workforce development by providing accessible, engaging educational tools that connect young people to real career pathways. The Chamber extends sincere thanks to all presenters: Dr. Vineetha Binoy (Medicine); Melissa Comparin (Career skills); Duwayne Lawrence (Regulatory policy & legislation); Purdy Gouveia (Engineering); Keevon Douglas (Media production); Robert Thompson (Personal training); Hannah Howe (Walkers - Corporate law & client relations); Kat Hampson (Careers and development); Luigi Moxam (Entrepreneurship); Cottrell Ellis Jr. (Correctional counselling); and Trent Christie (Commercial leasing). Their generous contributions of time and expertise continue to shape Cayman’s future workforce. Programmes Coordinator Jada Ramoon said: “We’re grateful to our sponsors and partners who make Mentoring Cayman possible each year. Your support connects students with real-world role models, practical skills, and the confidence to pursue their goals. You are directly investing in Cayman’s future workforce.” She added: “On behalf of the Chamber, we also thank our Mentoring Cayman sponsors—Rocky’s Diamonds, Cayman Maritime, and Cayman Water—for their steadfast support. Together with our presenters, you are helping to create meaningful pathways for young people to succeed.” Chamber CEO Wil Pineau said: “Mentoring Cayman is a cornerstone of our Building a Future-Ready Workforce agenda. It plays a critical role in bridging the gap between education and employment by exposing students to real opportunities, practical skills, and professional networks. This week, we also launched our Tourism Matters series, which I had the opportunity to share with students during this session. It is another important tool to help young Caymanians better understand the breadth of opportunities in one of our most vital industries. Together, these initiatives ensure that our students are informed, prepared, and inspired to participate in Cayman’s future economy.” The Chamber also reminds students, parents, and educators that its annual Careers Expo will take place on Friday, 27 March 2026, at the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI). More than 40 businesses and Government agencies have already confirmed participation, providing students with further opportunities to explore career pathways and connect with potential employers. Careers Day once again demonstrated the lasting value of Mentoring Cayman: when students are exposed to opportunity, supported by mentors, and equipped with practical skills, they gain the confidence and clarity needed to chart their futures— while strengthening the long-term resilience and competitiveness of the Cayman Islands workforce.