Vincent Darrell has won the 2022 Sheila Nicoll Argus Award, a $15,000-a-year scholarship, granted annually for three years.

The Argus Group said Mr Darrell will begin his degree in business management and marketing at Solent University, UK, in September.

The new award honours former Argus board member and veteran insurance executive, Sheila Nicoll, to recognise her commitment to the future of Bermuda by investing in the education and careers of young people.

A graduate of Saltus Grammar School, the 18-year-old former head prefect is looking forward to furthering his skills in accounting, data analysis, finance, creative enterprise, and innovation, with the help of this award.

A keen debater since he was six years old, Mr Darrell has been a member of the Bermuda Youth Parliament and has represented Saltus’ debate team locally and internationally.

Passionate about performing arts, he was the winner of the 2021 Alpha Beautillion, and credits much of his success to the support of his great aunt, Melinda Williams, who he has lived with since he was two years old.

Mr Darrell said: “My aunt has always been a guiding force in my life and cared for my brother and me as if we were her own. She enrolled me in debate, bike races, the Telford Electric Mile, football, and summer camps – exposing me to opportunities that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.

“She showed us that your circumstances do not have to define who you are. She encouraged me to be outspoken and advocate for what I believe in.

“A philosophy I live by is, you don’t have to see the whole staircase to take the first step. You might not know what’s ahead of you but it’s important to take that first step and get out of your comfort zone to find success.

“I am honoured to be able to make her, my family and myself proud with this accomplishment.”

As the winner of this award, Mr Darrell will be offered holiday employment opportunities with Argus.

Ms Nicoll was a member of the Argus Group board of directors for 14 years and was the chairwoman from 2008 until her retirement in 2021.

She served as a member of the award committee and played a part in selecting the winner.

Ms Nicoll said: “Throughout my career, I have encouraged young people to further their education and pursue careers in the insurance industry.

“My own career path has been enriched by those who have inspired and encouraged me along the way, and I am thrilled that Argus is supporting the ongoing education of a promising young Bermudian in my name.

“I wish Vincent a fulfilling and rewarding experience at university and in the future.”

Ryan Eve, award committee chairman and VP, broking, added: “It was rewarding to see so many talented Bermudians apply for this award, endeavouring to further their education and give back to the community.

“We had some strong candidates, all deserving in their own right – Vincent stood out from the rest. He is a remarkable person who works hard to meet his goals, never giving up, and ultimately succeeding.

“Vincent has a bright future. We are proud and excited to partner with him on his journey and welcome him to the Argus family.”

The award was open to applicants seeking undergraduate degrees in actuarial science, business, economics, finance, insurance and risk management, mathematics, pure science, biology, chemistry, information technology, engineering, environmental sciences.