University student Sinae Smith has received the prestigious Deloitte scholarship worth some $40,000.

The award, presented today, will lessen her “financial burden” as she continues her studies at the University of Leicester where she is a second year undergraduate, studying mathematics and actuarial science.

The scholarship offers up to $20,000 per year for a maximum of two years and is available to Bermudians pursuing an undergraduate degree with an interest in accounting, actuarial and business related studies.

Ms Smith was selected from a group of shortlisted scholarship applicants and “stood out for her drive and determination to succeed, academic achievement and her commitment to family and community initiatives,” said a company press release.

She will join the firm as an intern in 2017.

“This award has lightened my financial burden tremendously, which now allows me to focus on the more important aspect of university, learning,” said Ms Smith.

“I view this scholarship as a blessing because not only does it allow me to develop my education, it also gives me the opportunity to gain further knowledge and experience in the industry from a Big 4 company. I cannot express in words what this opportunity means to me and my support system, so I shall prove it to you through my studies and work ethic both at university and at Deloitte”.

John Johnston, CEO of Deloitte’s Caribbean and Bermuda region, said: “Deloitte is a leader in developing the best talent globally, and in Bermuda we are committed to investing in future leaders through the Deloitte Scholarship. I am delighted to congratulate Sinae on receiving this year’s award.”

Ms Smith has been heavily involved in community activities such as the university’s street dance society, tutors math at CGSE level and is involved in various sports, particularly netball and basketball. She has gained experience with the Women’s Bermuda League and has gone on to captain both the netball and basketball teams at Dudley College in the UK.

Nicole Valadao, Partner of Enterprise Risk Services (ERS), added: “Our focus as a firm is to make an impact that matters — Sinae has clearly demonstrated her ability to make an impact that matters in her community and through her studies. We applaud her achievements and wish her continued success as she pursues her dreams”.

“Deloitte Ltd is committed to the development of outstanding Bermudians, providing undergraduate students in accounting, actuarial and other business studies with funding for overseas education,” added the statement.

“Students are also able to hone their skills through the ‘DEEP’ Summer Internship Programme and the Deloitte Graduate Programme.”

Students interested in the programme should visit www.deloitte.com/bm for more information.