A law firm hopes to fill a gap in funding for young people pursuing worthwhile endeavours outside of traditional scholarship.

Conyers said it will award up to $10,000 a year through its Future Leader Development Grants Fund to graduates of the Future Leaders Summer Induction programme — a three-week empowerment initiative for middle and high school students.

The grants will provide financial support to young people pursuing community impact projects and personal development goals that extend beyond mainstream academic pursuits, the firm said.

As stated on the Future Leaders Bermuda website: “While there are a variety of scholarships and award opportunities available to top and high-achieving students wishing to pursue higher education, financial funding for other worthwhile endeavours by young people from all backgrounds is limited.”

According to Conyers, examples of eligible pursuits include launching a social media campaign for girls’ empowerment or obtaining a certification in video production to further a goal of community advocacy.

Founded in 2017, the Future Leaders Programme’s stated goal is to empower youth and teach them leadership skills. Seventy two students have completed the programme to date, the charity has said.

Ryan Robinson Perinchief, a former Conyers summer intern and the founder of Future Leaders Bermuda, said: “Conyers has supported our vision from the beginning.

“The existence of this fund further demonstrates to youth that anything is possible if we adopt the right mindset and take charge over our future.”

Conyers director Sophia Greaves added: “We are passionate about empowering young Bermudians from all backgrounds to make a positive and impactful difference in the community. We are delighted to be part of this initiative.”

In addition to this grant, Conyers also offers Legal Education Awards and work placement opportunities. The firm has recently also launched the Smart Start Programme, which aims to provide mentorship and work experience to high school students who may otherwise not have the opportunity to access a legal career, Conyers said.

Applications are currently open to young people 13 years of age and older who have completed the Future Leaders Programme.

There are two rounds of grants each year, with deadlines on May 15 and November 15, 2022.

More information can be found at www.futureleaders.bm/conyersgrants