Ignite Bermuda has expanded its team with the appointment of Bermudian Selica Blackwood as the organisation’s new communications and administrations officer.

The entrepreneurial accelerator, which said that it received 79 applications for the post from highly qualified candidates, said that Ms Blackwood brings a unique combination of skills and a real passion for supporting the community during this challenging time.

The organisation said that she is keen to help Ignite members using her skills in personal development, organisation and brand management, building on her 15 years of experience at Appleby (Bermuda) Limited in the marketing department, where she was the brand guardian across ten international offices.

Ms Blackwood’s previous remit included the role of initiatives executive, which incorporated training and special projects as well as managing Above and Beyond, an internal employee recognition scheme.

She said: "I am eager to put my skills to use while learning and growing in this new role at Ignite Bermuda. I am looking forward to helping entrepreneurs realise their full potential as masters of their fate and leaders in their chosen industry."

Since executive director Sean Reel joined in 2019, Ignite said, it has hired a fully Bermudian team to support its ever-growing community of passionate entrepreneurs and community leaders.

Laura Lyons is the organisation’s manager of acceleration and entrepreneurial enablement, and Georgia Rego is Ignite’s intern and special project manager for its inaugural Young Adult Internship Programme.

Ignite said that it has reached more than 300 entrepreneurs and community leaders that have benefited from programmes, coaching, mentorship and access to facilities.

By expanding the team, the organisation said, it is confident that it can better support Bermuda's entrepreneurial community leaders, adding that this new role is crucial in helping to build a trusted and inclusive environment while raising Ignite's unique profile as it continues to evolve.

In addition, Ignite said, the position will serve as a liaison between the entrepreneurs, community leaders, the mentor network, the angel network and sponsors.

Mr Reel said: "I am really excited to have such an amazing team supporting our entrepreneurs and community leaders, many who are pivoting, growing and realigning themselves to the needs of Bermuda today and in the future. I would like to thank all our sponsors for their continued support during this critical time."