Six aspiring entrepreneurs have been awarded certificates at a graduation ceremony for the seventh cohort of the annual Summer Student Entrepreneur Programme presented by the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation.

The ceremony at The Loft in Hamilton marked the end of the eight-week programme, where the young Bermudians showcased their businesses and shared their entrepreneurial journeys.

Students who received certificates included:

• Nylan Tyrrell of Paxus, a clothing brand for Bermudians that offers tracksuits, shorts, hats, and T-shirts for teens to represent their home

• Arhyiah Tatem of Mindful Treasures, colourful, eye-catching jewellery for neuro-divergent, queer, or disabled individuals, including those with mental health challenges

• Tie’asia Allen of Brazil Ill, skincare products with natural ingredients for personalised and effective skin care

• Roqué Roberts of Scents on de Roq, affordable unisex roll-on fragrances for teens with three initial scents

• Ethan Kessell of Building Blocks, a tabletop role-playing game system with core rules, supplements, and guides in books and PDFs

• Aniyah Paige-Paiva of Junkie Cases by Aniyah, unique resin phone cases with charms for personalised style and protection

The graduation was attended by Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy and Labour, BEDC executive director Erica Smith, the organisation’s board members and staff, mentors, and the students’ families and friends.

Mr Hayward said: “Today, you’ve completed an eight-week journey filled with learning, both in the classroom and the real world. Starting a business is no small feat, and I congratulate each of you for seeing it through to the end.

“Your perseverance has led you to this moment, and we sincerely hope you’ve achieved the goals you set at the beginning of this journey.”

Ms Smith said: “Your decision to explore entrepreneurship through this summer programme has been nothing short of inspiring. You have faced challenges head-on, celebrated your successes, and in doing so, you have given us a clear glimpse of the bright future that awaits Bermuda’s economy.”

She added: “Your achievements today are just the beginning. I encourage you to keep moving forward and pursue your dreams with the same energy and dedication that brought you here.”

Deshun Simmons, assistant communication and development officer, and programme co-ordinator, added: “This programme is about more than just earning money; it’s about instilling an entrepreneurial mindset that these students can carry with them for the rest of their lives.

“I’ve seen tremendous growth in each of them, and I’m proud of their progress. Their success is a testament to their hard work and community support.”

The BEDC said some students have listed their products on ByBermuda, an online platform designed to empower entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their unique products, goods, and services without the hassle and cost of managing their own websites.