Three young entrepreneurs have pitched their ideas in the youth finals of the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition.

The event is a presentation of the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation in partnership with the Global Atlantic Re foundation.

The three finalists — Sabriuna Wilkinson of Nurture Laiche, Aaron Lugo Jr of Lugo’s Mighty Mower, and Antoine Jones of Distinct Collectives — pitched in front of an audience comprised friends, family, Global Atlantic Re representatives, BEDC team members and a panel of judges.

Judges included Hong Gao, senior vice-president at Global Atlantic Re, BEDC board member Kyle James, and Ondreyah Rochester, micro, small and medium enterprise officer at the BEDC.

The BEDC said the grand winner of the youth finals will remain under wraps until the main pitch event on September 28 at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said: “It fills me with pride to witness the innovative spirit, dedication, and resilience of our youth. Each participant before us is a beacon of hope and represents the promising future of Bermuda’s business ecosystem.”

Erica Smith, executive director of the BEDC, said: “To each of you, I want to say: you should be immensely proud of what you’ve achieved. Every idea pitched, and every business presented, is a testament to your hard work and the bright future of entrepreneurship in Bermuda.”

Darryl Herrick, president of Global Atlantic Re and co-head of reinsurance, added: “The young entrepreneurs who participated in the event really demonstrated the ingenuity and creative spirit that are hallmarks of the Global Atlantic Re foundation.

“We’re honoured to sponsor this event and work with such talented young entrepreneurs and look forward to announcing the winner next month.”

Following the main event on September 28, the public will have the opportunity to watch the finalists’ pitches and cast their votes for the “People’s Choice Award”.

The finalist securing the most votes will win up to $25,000.

A spokeswoman said: “BEDC extends its appreciation to the Global Atlantic Re foundation for its invaluable partnership. This support will help to fuel the growth and success of small businesses throughout Bermuda, providing much needed capital to help businesses expand, hire more employees, and contribute to the local economy.”