Students Graduate From Entrepreneur Program
The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] celebrated the graduation of its 7th annual Summer Student Entrepreneur Program [SSEP] with six students — Nylan Tyrrell, Arhyiah Tatem, Tie’asia Allen, Roqué Roberts, Ethan Kessell, and Aniyah Paige-Paiva — receiving their certificates.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] recently celebrated the graduation of its 7th Annual Summer Student Entrepreneur Program [SSEP] on Thursday, August 22nd, at The Loft. This ceremony marked the end of the eight-week program, where six young Bermudian entrepreneurs showcased their businesses and shared their entrepreneurial journeys throughout the program.
“The event was attended by Minister of Economy and Labour, Hon. Jason P. Hayward, JP, MP, BEDC’s Executive Director Erica Smith, BEDC board members and staff, mentors, and the students’ families and friends. This gathering was an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable growth and potential demonstrated by these young entrepreneurs throughout the program.”
Minister Hayward congratulated the graduates, saying, “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.”
The spokesperson said, “The students who received their certificates included:
- Nylan Tyrrell of Paxus is a clothing brand for Bermudians that offers tracksuits, shorts, hats, and T-shirts for teens to represent their home country.
- Arhyiah Tatem of Mindful Treasures – Colorful, eye-catching jewelry for neurodivergent, queer, or disabled individuals, including those with mental health challenges.
- Tie’asia Allen of Brazil Ill – Provides skincare products with natural ingredients for personalized and effective skin care.
- Roqué Roberts of Scents on de Roq – Affordable unisex roll-on fragrances for teens with three initial scents, ensuring they always smell good.
- Ethan Kessell of Building Blocks – A tabletop roleplaying game [TTRPG] system with core rules, supplements, and guides in books and PDFs.
- Aniyah Paige-Paiva of Junkie Cases by Aniyah – Creator of unique resin phone cases with charms for personalized style and protection.
“Some students also listed their products on ByBermuda, an online platform designed to empower local entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their unique products, goods, and services without the hassle and cost of managing their own websites. Their products can be found on the platform, providing the community with an easy way to continue supporting these young entrepreneurs and helping sustain and grow their budding businesses beyond the program.
Erica Smith, Executive Director of BEDC, commended the students, stating, “Your decision to explore entrepreneurship through this summer program 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 continued, “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 & Development Officer, and Program Coordinator added, “This program 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 spokesperson said, “A significant highlight of the program was the opportunity for students to sell their products in prime locations, thanks to valuable local partnerships. The Corporation of Hamilton generously waived vending fees for the City Hall launch event, and the Chamber of Commerce waived fees for the students to attend Harbour Nights. These partnerships provided these young entrepreneurs the platform to showcase their businesses to the public without financial barriers. Such support reduces costs and encourages a culture of entrepreneurship by giving these students real-world experience engaging with customers and generating revenue.
“For more information on the Summer Student Entrepreneur Program and the 2024 Participants, please visit www.bedc.bm, contact info@bedc.bm, or call 292-5570.”
