CIFEC ALUMNI – WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

For many students, the final year of high school can feel uncertain, filled with questions about the future and the path ahead. At the Cayman Islands Further Education Centre (CIFEC), that uncertainty is transformed into opportunity. 

This feature highlights the stories of CIFEC alumni who understood that CIFEC is more than a school, it is a bridge. A bridge between education and employment. Between uncertainty and direction. Between potential and achievement.  These students have walked that bridge, have used one year to redefine their future and are now making meaningful contributions across industries.  Their journeys prove a simple but powerful truth: one year can change everything.

CIFEC is one of three pathways available to students attending the CIG High schools who are completing their secondary education in the Cayman Islands. While some may see it as an alternative route, for many, it becomes a turning point.

In just one year, CIFEC equips students with more than academic qualifications. Through a structured programme, students attend classes three days per week, working toward external examinations and strengthening core skills essential for higher education and employment. The remaining two days are spent in the CIFEC Internship Programme, an immersive, hands-on experience that places students directly into professional environments.

From October to April, students engage in real workplaces, gaining practical skills, experience, mentorship, and industry exposure. They learn not just how to work but how to communicate, collaborate, network and grow in professional settings. These experiences often lead to tangible outcomes, including part-time or full-time employment, paid summer internships, and even scholarship opportunities.

CIFEC alumni wishing to share their journeys may contact: Jenine Stewart, Career Services Manager: JStewart@cifec.edu.ky.

Kayleigh Bush

Company/Institution: HSM IP Ltd.

Current Role:

CIFEC Year Attended: 2022-2023

CIFEC Internship Placement: HSM Chambers

Pathway to Success/The Journey: Kayleigh chose CIFEC as her next step to gain both academic and practical experience. Through the CIFEC Career Fair, she secured an internship placement at HSM balancing school three days per week with hands-on work experience for two days. Her performance led to a paid summer internship at HSM, where she further proved her capabilities. By September 2023, Kayleigh earned a full-time position within the firm’s Intellectual Property team. Today, she continues to grow professionally while working full-time at HSM and pursuing an associate’s degree part-time at UCCI, demonstrating how the CIFEC Internship Programme can create a clear and successful pathway forward.

Alumni Reflection/Statement: CIFEC is an excellent school that allows its students to build their experiences and confidence when it comes to dealing with the corporate world. Their internship program is a good way for the students to either gain a job at the end of the internship period with the company they were placed at or have at least some experiences that will eventually lead to them getting a job.

Janely Reeves

Company/Institution: HSM IP Ltd.

Current Role: IP Administrative Assistant

CIFEC Year Attended: 2022-2023

CIFEC Internship Placement: HSM Corporate

Pathway to success/The Journey: Janely Reeves began her journey at CIFEC by attending the careers fair, where she secured an internship opportunity with HSM’s corporate team. During her placement, she gained valuable experience and later transitioned into a summer internship, expanding her exposure by assisting in property law as well. After completing her internship, Janely took time to focus on her academic studies. In early 2024, she reconnected with HSM to explore full-time opportunities. Her initiative paid off and by March 2024, she was offered a full-time role within the firm’s Intellectual Property team. Today, Janely continues to build her career while pursuing her studies part-time at UCCI, demonstrating determination and long-term commitment to her professional growth.

Alumni Reflection/Statement: It opened doors for me. Taught me to be on time and responsible. My advice to students is to start your resume and get support from the teachers. Because of CIFEC and my hard work, I now have a full-time position that I enjoy at HSM.

Lakeisha Pryce Nee Mason

Company/Institution: CIG Department of Planning -Building Control Unit

Current Role: Plans Examiner

CIFEC Year Attended: 2010-2011

CIFEC Internship Placement: DDL Studios Ltd.

Pathway to success/The Journey:

Lakeisha began her professional journey by completing the CIFEC Internship program at DDL Studios. In 2013, she earned an Associate of Engineering degree from the University College of the Cayman Islands. That same year, she enrolled at Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia to pursue her passion for architecture and design, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture. She later continued her academic journey at Florida International University, graduating in 2020 with a Master of Architecture (M. Arch.) degree.”

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

CIFEC provided me with valuable insight into the many opportunities within the construction and design career path. Through hands-on experiences and guidance from mentors, I was able to better understand the industry and develop confidence to pursue my future in this field.

Ajani Anderson

Company/Institution: HSM IP Ltd.

Company/Institution: Cayman Islands Fire Service

Current Role: Fire Fighter

CIFEC Year Attended: 2012-2013

CIFEC Internship Placement: Cayman Islands Maritime Authority

Pathway to success/The Journey: After completing the CIFEC Internship Program, Ajani earned an Associate of Sciences in Civil Engineering at the University College of the Cayman Islands. He accomplished this while being employed full-time at Andro Group

Alumni Reflection / Statement:

CIFEC gave me the practical experience and confidence I needed to take the next step in my professional journey. My internship helped me understand what it was like to work in an environment that had people from different cultures all working hard to achieve the same goal. Working in this diverse environment at such a young age helped me realize that flexibility, adaptability along with humility will and can take one far in whichever career they choose to pursue.

Jenae Whittaker

CCompany/Institution: HSM IP Ltd.

Current Role: IP Administrative Assistant

CIFEC Year Attended: 2022-2023

CIFEC Internship Placement: HSM

Pathway to success/The Journey: Jenae began her CIFEC journey after attending the careers fair, where she secured a placement with HSM Chambers assisting in debt collection matters. Her strong work ethic led to a summer internship in the same role, where she continued to build practical experience and professional skills. In September 2023, Jenae transitioned into a full-time position within the firm’s Intellectual Property department. She is currently continuing her academic development by studying part-time for an associate’s degree at the University College of the Cayman Islands.

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

It is a great school and I am grateful to them for the opportunity of getting on-the-job experience. I would not be where I am today without them. The programme helped to prepare me for the future and I am happy in my current role at HSM. My advice to new CIFEC students is that it does not matter if it isn’t a job you like, give it a try and you may be surprised.

Javari Pearson

Company/Institution: HSM

Current Role: Receptionist/IP Administrative Assistant

CIFEC Year Attended: 2024-2025

CIFEC Internship Placement: HSM

The Journey: After completing his internship at HSM Javari was invited back for paid summer internship then offered a full-time position. He is currently attending the International College of the Cayman Islands (ICCI) where he is pursuing an Associate Degree in Business Administration while working full-time at HSM.

Alumni Reflection: CIFEC gave me the hands-on experience and self-assurance I needed to move forward in my education. The internship allowed me to see the day-to-day responsibilities of professionals in the field, and it helped me confirm that this is the direction I truly want to pursue.

Kari Rankin

Company/Institution: Cayman Islands Government, Ministry of Education

Current Role: Human Resources Manager

CIFEC Year Attended: 2010-2011

CIFEC Internship Placement: KPMG

Pathway to success/The Journey: Kari began her professional journey by completing the CIFEC Internship program, which provided a solid foundation for her academic and professional development. She went on to earn an Associate of Arts in Business Administration, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Management and a minor in Human Resources. Building on these achievements, Kari completed a Master of Science in Management with a specialization in Human Resources.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Kari attributes her success to maintaining an openness to opportunities at all levels, allowing her to gain diverse and meaningful experiences. She has also benefited from working alongside experienced leaders and professionals, which has helped shape her mindset and broaden her professional perspective.

Alumni Reflection/Statement: My experience in the CIFEC Internship Program was a turning point that helped push me forward academically and professionally while giving me valuable, hands-on experience in a professional environment. The opportunity to participate in work experience through CIFEC allowed me to demonstrate my skills, work ethic, and potential during my placement. It also opened doors to long-term employment opportunities and created pathways for continued growth through sponsorships, grants, and professional development opportunities.

Initially, I aspired to become an accountant, but my CIFEC work placement exposed me to new opportunities and career paths. During this time, I discovered the field of Human Resources, which sparked a new passion and ultimately guided me toward building a career in that field. The guidance, encouragement, and exposure provided by the HR professionals I encountered along the way helped push me beyond my comfort zone and motivated me to continue growing professionally. Their mentorship and support played a significant role in shaping both my confidence and career development.

I am also truly grateful to the team at CIFEC who supported and guided me throughout the school year of 2010-2011. Their encouragement and belief in my potential made a lasting impact on my journey.

Asaiah Thomas

Company/Institution: University of Reading (BEng Architectural Engineering)

Current Role: Student

CIFEC Year Attended: 2020-2021

CIFEC Internship Placement: Chalmers Gibbs

Pathway to success/The Journey: Asaiah attended CIFEC during the 2020–2021 academic year, using the programme as a foundation for both higher education and career development. Through an internship at Chalmers Gibbs, Asaiah gained valuable hands-on experience in the construction and architectural fields, developing practical and technical skills.

While at CIFEC, she was crowned Ms. Teen Cayman 2021, a milestone that highlighted her confidence, and commitment to personal development. Following this achievement, Asaiah was awarded a four-year scholarship by the Ministry of Education, supporting her continued academic journey. She later progressed to higher education at the University of Reading, where she continues to pursue higher education, building a career pathway in construction and architectural engineering, demonstrating steady academic and professional growth.

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

CIFEC played a key role in shaping my path by giving me early exposure to the construction and architectural industry and real-world experience through my internship. It helped me develop practical skills, discipline, and confidence to pursue further studies and a career in the field.

Ahmoya Morrison

Company/Institution: HSM

Current Role: Immigration Services Administrator

CIFEC Year Attended: 2024-2025

CIFEC Internship Placement: HSM

The Journey: Ahmoya connected with HSM at the CIFEC Career Fair which led to an offer of an internship with the Firm. She had always wanted a career in Law and therefore targeted HSM at the career fair. Upon successfully completing the internship, she gained paid summer internship with HSM. She’s currently pursuing a Bachelor of Law Degree with a minor in Psychology at the University of Essex (UK) online while working full- time at HSM

Alumni Reflection/Statement: My journey highlights the true impact of the CIFEC Internship Programme. My journey began by getting an internship placement with HSM where I have gained hands-on experience, developed practical skills, and built confidence in my career path.  The CIFEC Internship programme not only equips students with skills but opens doors to long-term success, showing that with commitment and the right opportunities, students can turn internships into meaningful careers.

Aaliyah Johnson

Company/Institution: Ministry of Financial Services and Commerce – CIG

Current Role: Human Resources Manager

CIFEC Year Attended: 2012-2013

CIFEC Internship Placement: Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS)

Pathway to success/The Journey: Aaliyah began her career as an intern Receptionist with the RCIPS, where she gained valuable exposure to HR processes.  Upon completing her internship in 2013, she was hired as a full-time Receptionist, which broadened her understanding of HR functions and led to her promotion to the role of HR Officer. She has completed a Level 3 Certificate in Human Resource Practice and has gained experience in key areas, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and HR administration across several government agencies. Aaliyah now serves as Human Resources Manager at the Ministry of Financial Services and Commerce, where she is responsible for strategic HR initiatives and driving organizational effectiveness.

Alumni Reflection/Statement: My journey at CIFEC marked the start of a fulfilling career path I never fully anticipated. As an intern at RCIPS, I was unsure of my professional direction, but CIFEC helped me discover my strengths in being reliable, hardworking and eager to learn. The experience and confidence I gained in HR during my time as a CIFEC intern at the RCIPS paved the way for further opportunities. To current CIFEC students, my advice is to embrace every learning opportunity, as your path will evolve in ways you can’t always predict.

Arianna Wheeler-Seijas

Company/Institution: Cayman Islands Coast Guard

Current Role: Ordinary Seamen

CIFEC Year Attended: 2016-2017

CIFEC Internship Placement: The Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman

The Journey: Upon completion of the CIFEC Internship Programme Arianna joined Cayman Airways as a flight attendant and continued to pursue a degree in Business Administration.  She joined the Coast Guard in 2021 and completed numerous trainings with the Jamaica Defense Force and the Officers course at Brittania Royal Naval College. She is currently attached to the Sea Detachment in the CICG as an EMR, Tactical Officer and Coxswain

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

CIFEC gave me the practical experience and confidence I needed to take the next step in my educational journey, particularly while balancing the demands of work and study.  My internship gave me valuable insight into the realities of customer service and the importance of maintaining high professional standards within every organization I have been a part of.

Amanda McIntosh

Company/Institution: Ministry of Education

Current Role: HR Office Support Assistant

CIFEC Year Attended: 2022-2023

CIFEC Internship Placement: Ministry of Education

Pathway to success/The Journey: Amanda began her professional journey by successfully completing the CIFEC Internship Program.  She then pursued higher education at the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI), where she earned an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in accounting while gaining practical experience working in the Ministry of Education’s Finance Unit full-time. Amanda went on to earn a Diploma in Financial Management…. At present, Amanda is further advancing her qualifications by pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree with a concentration in Business Administration, specializing in Human Resources Management (HRM).

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

CIFEC is an amazing school, as it allows you to further your education or redeem yourself. CIFEC was an important part of my academic and professional journey because it pushed me to grow both intellectually and personally. The experience helped me develop critical thinking skills, build confidence, and connect with people who inspired me to aim higher. Being part of CIFEC taught me the value of discipline, curiosity, and perseverance.

My advice to incoming students is to stay open to new ideas, take advantage of every opportunity, and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Your time at CIFEC will go by quickly, so make the most of it and enjoy the journey.

Azaria Ruiz-Bodden

Company/Institution: HSM IP Ltd.

Current Role: Receptionist/Administrative Assistant

CIFEC Year Attended: 2024-2025

CIFEC Internship Placement: HSM

The Journey: After completing the CIFEC internship program at HSM, Azaria was offered paid summer internship and then a full-time position at HSM.

She is currently pursuing an associates in business administration and science Degree at the International College of the Cayman Islands (ICCI) while being a full-time employee at HSM.

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

CIFEC gave me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and the self-assurance I needed to move forward in my education. The internship allowed me to see the responsibilities of professionals in the field, and it helped me confirm that this is the direction I truly want to pursue.

Che Andrews

Company/Institution: Walkers (Cayman) LLP

Current Role: Compliance Analyst (WPS Americas)

CIFEC Year Attended: 2018-2019

CIFEC Internship Placement: Go Pro Diving

The Journey: Che completed his CIFEC Internship at Go Pro Diving. He then earned an Associate of Social Sciences at the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) while being employed full-time at Campbells LLP.  He became a member of the Cayman Islands Compliance Association and was granted a scholarship.  He holds the ICA Advanced Certificate in Anti Money Laundering and is now pursuing another accredited certification programme with the international Compliance Association.

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

My time at CIFEC provided me with the practical experience and confidence I needed to take the next step in my educational and professional journey. Through my internship, I gained firsthand exposure to the realities of the working world, allowing me to move beyond theoretical knowledge and truly understand how professional environments operate.

The internship also played a significant role in shaping my personal development. It confirmed for me that making a career change at a young age can be incredibly beneficial. Exploring different paths early allowed me to better understand my strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Rather than feeling uncertain, the experience gave me clarity about what I am meant to pursue and what I hope to accomplish in life. It reinforced the importance of stepping outside comfort zones and embracing opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

I am currently progressing toward a senior position, which will not only strengthen my expertise but also prepare me for greater responsibilities and leadership opportunities in the future.

Alwin Buttrum

Company/Institution: Vampt Motors Ltd.

Current Role: Technician

CIFEC Year Attended: 2018-2019

CIFEC Internship Placement: Vampt Motors Ltd.

Pathway to success/The Journey:

After completing his CIFEC internship at Vampt Motors Ltd., Alwin was hired by the company in 2019 as a Technician Helper. From 2019 to 2022, he completed a three-year training period, gaining valuable hands-on experience in automotive repair and maintenance.

In 2022, Alwin was awarded his own work bay and promoted to Technician at VAMPT Motors Ltd. Since then, he has continued to develop his technical skills and professional expertise within the company.

As of 2026, Alwin is working toward completing his Toyota G4 Qualification and is on track to achieve this certification later this year, marking another important milestone in his automotive career.

Alumni Reflection/Statement:

CIFEC gave me an opportunity to get my foot in the door and from there I excelled into becoming a Vampt Technician.

Tishann Wright

Company/Institution: Cayman National Bank Ltd.

Current Role: Digital Sales Officer

CIFEC Year Attended: 2016-2017

CIFEC Internship Placement: Cayman National Bank Ltd.

The Journey:

After successfully completing the CIFEC Internship Programme, she started building a strong foundation in professional and workplace skills. Tishann began as a Temporary Contractor, then progressed to a full-time Customer Service Representative through demonstrated performance and commitment.  She explored other avenues but later rejoined the organization as an Online Banking Officer and was promoted to Digital Sales Officer in 2025.  In that same year, she began pursuing an associate’s degree in business administration to further support her professional growth.

Alumni Reflection/Statement: The CIFEC Internship Programme provided a strong foundation for my professional journey. It supported my growth from a filing clerk to a full-time employee and later a promotion to Digital Sales Officer. I am currently pursuing an associate degree in business administration to support continued career development.

Brianna Livingston

Company/Institution: Canterbury Christ Church University, United Kingdom

Current Role: Undergraduate Student – BSc Geography

CIFEC Year Attended: 2020-2021

CIFEC Internship Placement: DART

The Journey: Brianna gained early exposure to workplace expectations and professional development through her CIFEC Internship Placement at DART. While attending CIFEC, Brianna was awarded a scholarship from the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (in Little Cayman) which led to her becoming a certified open water diver.  In that same year, while attending CIFEC, she was crowned Miss Teen Cayman Islands. After taking a gap year, Briana enrolled at UCCI before transitioning to Canterbury Christ Church University where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Geography and is the Outreach & Wellness Lead within the Christian Union. She is a member of the Canterbury Gospel Choir and continues to represent her country internationally.

Brianna has participated in runway modeling in Cayman, New York and London Fashion Week. Since completing her CIFEC Internship in 2021, DART has routinely offered Brianna paid summer employment and she has a standing offer of employment from DART when she returns home from university

Alumni Reflection/Statement: My time at CIFEC helped me to understand the importance of responsibility, professionalism, and stepping outside my comfort zone. In just one year it helped to give me a stronger foundation and prepared me for life beyond school, including studying abroad.

My advice to current students is to embrace every opportunity, even if it feels outside your comfort zone because I am proof that growth happens when you challenge yourself and pursue further learning.

“Trust your journey, every experience is preparing you for something greater.”

Shan Pollard

Company / Institution: Ogier

Current Role: Assistant Manager, Regulatory Operations

CIFEC Year Attended: 2011-2012

CIFEC Internship Placement: KPMG

The Journey:

After completing the CIFEC Internship Programme, Shan gained employment shortly after graduation. She then

Completed the ICA International Advanced Certificate in Compliance, then CAMS Anti-Money Laundering Certificate Specialist. Shan then went on to the Completion of CertHE (Law).

Alumni Reflection/Statement: CIFEC provided me with the valuable opportunity to gain experience in a professional environment while in school, allowing me to earn an additional pass.  Following graduation, I successfully secured a role as a Compliance Assistant and have continued to build my career within the compliance field. Since then, I have obtained several compliance certifications, as well as a legal certification. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity, as it effectively prepared me for the private sector, and my placement at KPMG was particularly instrumental in shaping my professional development.

My advice for students entering CIFEC is that not every path is linear and they should absolutely pursue a career that brings them happiness. Attending CIFEC allows students to experience balancing personal development and work placement and genuinely sets them up for the best step to their future and I highly recommend it based on my experience and career.