CIMPA Next GEN Event Inspires Cayman’s Future Marketing Leaders

The Cayman Islands Marketing Professionals Association (CIMPA) successfully hosted its inaugural CIMPA Next GEN event on 8 August 2026, bringing together students, interns, emerging marketers, and industry professionals for a morning of learning, mentorship, and meaningful connections.

Held at Union Bar & Grill, the event was designed to support the next generation of marketing talent in the Cayman Islands by providing attendees with direct access to professionals who are actively building successful careers across the marketing, design, branding, and communications sectors.

The event featured a Fireside Chat moderated by Emilie Edgington, CIMPA Youth Ambassador, and an engaging panel comprising:

• Keevon Douglas, Founder, Think XYZ

• Gabrielle Scott, Junior Visual Designer, Dart

• Alana Warwick-Smith, Manager, Social Media & Brand, Cayman Finance

• Brianna Wilson, Founder, The Design Space

Panelists shared insights into their career journeys, discussed emerging industry trends, explored the impact of artificial intelligence on marketing, and offered practical advice for aspiring professionals looking to establish themselves in the field.

“CIMPA Next GEN was created to help bridge the gap between education and industry by connecting aspiring marketers with professionals who can share real-world experiences and guidance,” said Erin Bodden, CIMPA Head of Community. “The enthusiasm, engagement,

and meaningful conversations throughout the event reinforced the importance of creating more opportunities for mentorship and professional development within our industry.”

In addition to the panel discussion, attendees participated in an interactive networking session where mentors and mentees built relationships, exchanged ideas, and expanded their professional networks. Guests also enjoyed brunch, a photo booth experience provided by GlamBooth, and the opportunity to win a variety of door prizes.

During the event, CIMPA was also pleased to recognize Aracely Matute-Trejo as the recipient of the association’s US$10,000 scholarship award. Aracely was selected in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements, demonstrated leadership, commitment to community service, and passion for pursuing a career in marketing. The selection committee was particularly impressed by her dedication to personal growth, her vision for using marketing as a tool for meaningful impact, and her commitment to contributing to the future success of the Cayman Islands.

Rory Mann, Vice President, Marketing & Communications at Butterfield Cayman, said: “Butterfield is proud to support CIMPA Next GEN and help connect, inspire, and empower the next generation of marketing and creative professionals in the Cayman Islands.”

CIMPA extends its sincere gratitude to the event’s sponsors and partners whose support made the event possible, including Butterfield, Union Bar & Grill, GlamBooth, Armada, Sunkissed Social, and Soirees by Starling, as well as the panelists, mentors, and attendees who contributed to the event’s success.

The overwhelming response to CIMPA Next GEN highlights the growing interest in marketing and communications careers among Cayman’s young professionals and reinforces CIMPA’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering connections, and advancing the profession across the islands.

For more information about CIMPA and upcoming events, visit www.cimpa.ky  or follow CIMPA on social media.