With a renewed commitment to investing in the next generation of financial services professionals, the Tomorrow’s Leaders Internship Programme officially launched its 2025 cycle on May 2 with an engaging and informative orientation session held in Road Town, Tortola.
Now in its second year, the programme—spearheaded by BVI Finance in collaboration with the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation—is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience. It connects BVI-based and overseas tertiary students with leading firms across the territory’s world-class financial services sector.
The orientation opened with inspiring remarks from Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development, who underscored the importance of nurturing homegrown talent and preparing young professionals to take up meaningful roles in one of the BVI’s most vital economic pillars.
The orientation opened with inspiring remarks from Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development, who underscored the importance of nurturing homegrown talent and preparing young professionals to take up meaningful roles in one of the BVI’s most vital economic pillars.
She also addressed the growing importance of staying current with global trends and deepening knowledge in emerging areas such as financial technology (fintech). Minister Smith emphasized that in today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, professionals must be adaptable and proactive in building expertise in innovative sectors that are reshaping the industry. She highlighted fintech as a key area of growth and opportunity, urging young professionals to embrace continuous learning and to position themselves at the forefront of technological advancements that are transforming how financial services are delivered and regulated.
Participants then received a comprehensive overview of the financial services industry from Dr. Michelle Todman Smith, Deputy Registrar at the Financial Services Commission, who highlighted the industry's critical role in both the local and global economy. This was followed by a career planning session led by Joan Johnson, Executive Director and Head of Trust and Corporate Services, BVI at Praxis, encouraging students to consider various professional pathways and take proactive steps toward long-term career development.
Sabinah Clement, Head of International Finance Centres, Global Incorporations at Vistra, delivered a dynamic and interactive presentation on workplace etiquette, stressing the importance of professionalism, communication, and adaptability in the modern work environment. Students also gained valuable insight into specialized financial services certifications and ongoing training opportunities through a session led by staff from the Robert Mathavious Institute (RMI).
A key highlight of the day was a thought-provoking panel discussion on “Being a Young Professional in the Financial Services Industry”, moderated by Shea Alexander, owner of OAC Group. The panel featured Shamahnea Simmonds of VP Bank, Khristie Latchman of the Financial Services Commission, Chassidy Lennard of Bedell Cristin and Adrian Ortiz – Fahie of PMI. The panelists shared their personal career journeys, and offered guidance on building confidence, finding mentorship, and navigating early career growth in a competitive industry.
With 36 student applicants for this year’s programme, the initiative continues to grow in reach and impact. Placement opportunities have also expanded, with participants set to intern at many of the BVI’s most respected financial institutions, including Attorney General’s Chambers, ATU, Bolder, Collas Crill, Conyers, Deloitte, EY, Financial Investigation Agency (FIA), Financial Services Commission (FSC), Harneys, Interpath, KPMG, MMG Trust, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Ogier, OMC, PMI, Praxis Trust, Virgin Islands Deposit Insurance Corporation, and Walkers. The internship period runs from May to September 2025, offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and structured development for emerging talent.
BVI Finance CEO, Elise Donovan, expressed confidence in the programme’s growing success: “Our goal is to ensure that students gain real, tangible insight into the industry while developing the soft and technical skills needed to succeed"
Shamahl A. Smith, Programme Lead at BVI Finance, remarked that the initiative has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both students and industry firms alike. “The response from both students and firms has been incredibly positive, and we’re proud to be building a stronger bridge between academia and the BVI’s financial sector,” he said. Smith emphasized that this growing engagement reflects a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals while strengthening the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the BVI’s financial services industry.
About BVI Finance
BVI Finance is responsible for protecting and promoting the BVI’s financial services industry. The BVI is renowned as a leading international business and finance centre, offering a robust legal framework, a stable and business-friendly environment, and a strong reputation for regulatory compliance. With its strategic expertise in wealth management, corporate services, trusts, fund administration and digital assets, the BVI continues to attract global businesses, investors and financial professionals to use its products and services.
For further information please contact:
Shamahl A. Smith
Communications and Research Officer
ssmith@bvifinance.vg |Tel: 284-852-1957