The Bermuda Hotel Association has awarded a total of $25,000 in scholarships to two Bermudian students pursuing hospitality studies overseas.

The BHA presented this year’s Adrian Hassell Memorial Scholarship to Najee Pitt-Clarke and Jaz Ratteray-Smith at a gathering in the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.

Ms Pitt-Clarke received a $12,500 award to help further her studies at the University of Reading in England, where she will be pursuing studies in culinary arts and hospitality management.

Mr Ratteray-Smith was also given a $12,500 award towards his studies at the George Brown College in Toronto, Canada, where he will be pursuing hotel management.

Both recipients picked up their awards from Clarence Hofheins, the BHA president, with board directors JP Martens, Theresa Harney-Zuill, Rehanna Palumbo and Stephen Todd, the chief executive.

The scholarship is given annually to Bermudian residents who are pursuing studies in the hospitality or hotel industry with a view to seeking career opportunities upon completion and their return to the island.