Diligence, hard work and “an exceptionally sharp mind” have resulted in Ryann Hollis becoming the youngest member of the Bermuda Bar.

Ms Hollis, 24, who is in her second year of Appleby’s legal training programme, was Called to the Bar yesterday before Acting Chief Justice Shade Subair Williams.

She recently began her final seat in the corporate department, where she will continue to be mentored by Gary Harris, partner in the insurance team.

Ms Hollis said: “I am honoured to be recognised as the newest and, currently, the youngest member of the Bermuda Bar.

“I am thankful to Appleby for providing me with the platform to achieve this major milestone. For the past year I have been exposed to excellent work and have worked alongside brilliant lawyers who have challenged me daily. I am excited to embark on this new journey and aspire to help others along the way.”

Ms Hollis completed the Legal Practice Course with Masters and Graduate Diploma in Law, both with commendation, at The University of Law in England. She also holds a bachelor of arts from the University of Kent, England.

She began her pupillage with Appleby last September. In the first-year of the programme she completed a four-month seat in the dispute resolution department, where she was mentored by Khiyara Krige, counsel. She also did a four-month seat rotating within the corporate department under the mentorship of partners Jerome Wilson and Gary Harris.

Ms Krige said of Ms Hollis: “She is quietly self-possessed and has a no-nonsense pragmatism that will serve her well, especially as a young woman entering the legal profession.

“She doesn’t shy away from challenging tasks and shows a willingness to learn and develop. She has been a pleasure to work with over the past few months and I warmly congratulate Ryann on being Called to the Bermuda Bar.”

Mr Harris, who is head of Appleby’s mentoring committee in Bermuda, added: "At Appleby, mentoring plays a vital role in recruiting and developing top legal talent in Bermuda.

“Despite her youth, Ryann demonstrates a sharp intellect and tireless work ethic that is truly impressive. Her successful Call to the Bar proves the strength of our firm's initiatives aimed at nurturing Bermuda's best young talent.

“Our robust mentoring programme equips promising professionals like Ryann with the skills and support needed to become the next generation of leaders in Bermuda's legal community.

“Thriving on the synergies and sense of community our mentorship programme provides, Ryann has not merely met but exceeded expectations. Her accomplishments are a testament to our firm's commitment to building a supportive culture where ambitious lawyers can reach their full potential.

“I am confident that with her keen mind and dedication to clients, Ryann has a tremendously bright future ahead at the Bar. She will undoubtedly be an invaluable asset not only to our firm, but to advancing Bermuda's reputation as a global leader in the legal sphere."