Entrepreneur Akilah Swan, a graduate of the Ignite Bermuda programme, has joined the non-profit organisation’s board of directors.

Ignite, the entrepreneurial accelerator launched in 2019, said its board recognises the value of having a Bermudian entrepreneur on the team with first-hand knowledge of its mission and culture.

The organisation said the board was impressed with Ms Swan’s entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm, her contribution to the Ignite community and the opportunity for personal growth in her role as director.

Don Mackenzie, co-founder and chairman of Ignite Bermuda said: "Akilah brings an in-depth understanding of the programmes that Ignite offers.

“She brings a unique perspective on what Ignite needs to continue to meet the demands of an ever-expanding small business community and it is important that we include our graduates on our board to ensure we continue to improve our programme."

Ms Swan said: "I am sincerely honoured and delighted to be a part of such a dynamic organisation as Ignite.

“I am thankful for the opportunity and support I have received and look forward to enhancing the experience for future Ignite cohort members within our local community."

Ms Swan first joined Ignite as a participant in its Fuel Your Ambitions series in 2019, which has since grown into a monthly webinar series.

She was an active cohort three member, led the pitch club, and served as a resident adviser in 2021.

Ms Swan has more than 17 years of experience in architectural design and founded the Bermudian-based architectural firm Aina Curated in 2020.

Ignite said Aina Curated is known for architectural and design excellence and its astute understanding of client needs. It prides itself on daring to blend nature for healing and design innovation.

Ignite said its mission is to build a community of entrepreneurs and community leaders that make an impact locally and globally.

Together with key stakeholders in the community, it offers a formalised curriculum to improve skills, mindset and provide a network of mentors and investors to provide enablement and access to capital.

In the three years since its launch, Ignite has seen strong growth in its entrepreneurial ecosystem, now comprising more than 300 entrepreneurs and community leaders.