Wave Of Opportunity Pitch Competition Winners
Sydney West, Antonia Holder, Tomika Pacheco, Greg Wilson, and Kamel Dickinson all earned $25,000 to help support their entrepreneurial efforts at the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC], in partnership with Global Atlantic, is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the 3rd Annual Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition, held on Monday, November 17th, 2025, at the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club.
“The sold-out event, hosted by Jamel Hardtman, was held as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week Bermuda. It drew an enthusiastic audience of 212 attendees, who gathered to cheer on nine dynamic finalists as they pitched their business ideas live for a share of $125,000 in total funding.
“The event was also live-streamed on BEDC’s YouTube channel, attracting over 930 views and allowing the broader community to experience the excitement and support Bermuda’s emerging business talent in real time.”
Darryl Herrick, President of Global Atlantic Re and Co-Head of Reinsurance, reflected on the evening, stating: “Each year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition highlights the incredible vision and determination of Bermuda’s entrepreneurs. Seeing these finalists bring their ideas to life is both inspiring and energizing. The creativity and drive on display reflects the best of Bermuda’s business community. Global Atlantic is proud to continue our partnership with the BEDC to help foster and support local business owners.”
A spokesperson added, “Finalists representing both the Youth Category and Main Category presented innovative business concepts, demonstrating clear vision and commitment to contributing to Bermuda’s economy.
“Judges for the 2025 competition included:
- “Youth Category Judges: Ondreyah Rochester, MSME Officer, BEDC; Lee Simmons, Board Chairman, BEDC; An-Wanae Butterfield, AVP, Legal, Global Atlantic; Lynn Superina, VP, Bermuda Controller, Global Atlantic; and Shauntia Steede, Head of Business Banking, HSBC Bermuda.
- “Main Category Judges: Daniel Woods, Managing Director, Compound Property Group; Talia Simons, Global Investor Servicing Lead, Mt. Logan Re.; Patrice Tucker, Office Manager, Global Atlantic; Kimani Ngugi, Associate, Finance, Global Atlantic; and Pamela Alexander, Head of Corporate Citizenship, KKR.
“After thoughtful deliberation, the judges selected the winners of the evening:
- “Youth Category Winner: Sydney West, Internship Insights Co.
- “Main Category Winners: Antonia Holder, DigiRoo; Tomika Pacheco, Off Grid RV; and Greg Wilson, Food Forest.
“The People’s Choice Award, determined by votes from both in-person attendees and online viewers, received over 450 votes and was awarded to Kamel Dickinson of Echelon for his outstanding pitch and community support.
“During the event, Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, shared that he was so moved by the strength of the pitches that he committed $5,000 to each of the remaining finalists. Although they did not take the top award, it was clear that their businesses were worthy of support and demonstrated real potential. The Minister’s decision gave these entrepreneurs an unexpected boost and ensured that every founder who stepped on stage walked away with meaningful help to move their ideas forward.”
Minister of Economy and Labour Jason Hayward shared words of encouragement, stating: “Stay committed to your vision, stay close to your customers, and continue to build with integrity. Bermuda believes in you, and this Government will continue to support entrepreneurship as a pathway to shared prosperity.”
Erica Smith, Executive Director of BEDC, reflected on the event’s success and the strength of the partnership with Global Atlantic, noting: “Each year, this competition reminds us just how much talent exists within Bermuda’s entrepreneurial community. We’ve seen past winners go on to expand their businesses, hire locally, and make a meaningful impact in their industries. The Wave of Opportunity is about creating access—access to funding, visibility, and the confidence to take bold ideas forward. We’re grateful for Global Atlantic’s continued partnership and proud of every finalist who took the stage this year.”
A spokesperson added, “The Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition remains a cornerstone initiative in the ongoing partnership between BEDC and Global Atlantic, which provides vital funding, mentorship, and exposure to small business owners across the island. Together, both organizations continue to invest in Bermuda’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, helping to turn vision into opportunity and opportunity into success.
“With the 2025 competition now complete, the BEDC and Global Atlantic are already looking ahead to next year’s event. Entrepreneurs interested in participating in the 2026 Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition are encouraged to stay connected through BEDC’s website and social media channels for updates when applications open.
“For more information or to watch the full 2025 competition replay, visit BEDC’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@bedcbda, or learn more at www.bedc.bm.”
Wow such a great opportunity. Thank you and congrats to the donors participants,judges. Well done.
Huge congratulations to all the winners of the “Wave of Opportunity” competition! It’s truly inspiring to see such a diverse and innovative range of ideas being supported, from sustainable ventures to community-focused projects. This kind of initiative is exactly what fuels a vibrant and forward-looking economy, and it’s a testament to the talent and creativity found right here in Bermuda.
My question is about the next phase: Beyond the seed funding, what kind of ongoing mentorship or network support will the winners receive to help them navigate the crucial early stages of turning their winning ideas into sustainable, long-term businesses?