In an innovative step towards empowering the next generation of leaders in the Cayman Islands, Christina Bodden, Partner with the Maples Group and Kelly Sage, Rampd Consulting have collaborated with the Cayman Islands Government and AIMA for a new approach to youth pre-career learning.
The team, along with Lara Deysel, Partner at KPMG, have a track record of a previous 9 years operating a successful local pre-career programme which supported over 700 local female high school students.
With a new expanded and inclusive reach, CareerMasters, will launch in October 2024, welcoming students of all genders between the ages of 15-18 from local participating high schools.
CareerMasters, which is centered on the core principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), is an immersive one-year programme focused solely on preparing students for tertiary education and pre-career opportunities. The program seeks to bridge gaps in early career preparation, ensuring that students have the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive and diverse local and global job market.
“CareerMasters focuses on three key areas, being the student’s practical application in accessing pre-career opportunities, participating in project-based work in diverse team-based environments, and mentorship. The programme results in “placements”, whether that be work experience, longer internships, scholarships or other workplace opportunities. Each CareerMaster student graduates from the programme with an experience under their belt”, says Kelly Sage.
On completion, students are invited to join a CareerMasters Alumni Society, where they continue to be active in the organization. The programme is unique as it focuses on quantifiable results and utilizing a growing alumni group to support future students and the community.
CareerMasters took the opportunity to soft launch its strategic plan in June 2024 to stakeholders in the public and private sector. Support from the community has been hugely positive, with growing excitement for a more focused approach to pre-career preparation amongst local students.
“We believe that preparing young people for their future careers is about more than just teaching technical skills. This programme is structured and immersive. It’s about cultivating a mindset of positive habits, fostering equitable opportunities, and ensuring that every young person, regardless of gender or background, has a fair shot at success,” said Christina Bodden, The Maples Group. “By integrating DEI into every aspect of this program, we’re not just shaping future professionals—we’re shaping confident, forward-thinking leaders.”
The Power of Alliance
CareerMasters is a proud partnership between the Cayman Islands Government and AIMA Cayman. CareerMasters also works each of its participating schools, being John Gray High School, Cayman International School, Clifton Hunter High School, Layman Scott High School, Cayman Prep and High School and St, Ignatius Catholic School to receive valuable feedback and facilitate support for its students.
AIMA Cayman is the Cayman Islands chapter of The Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA), the global representative of the alternative investment industry, with around 2,100 corporate members in over 60 countries. AIMA’s fund manager members collectively manage more than US$3 trillion in hedge fund and private credit assets. AIMA draws upon the expertise and diversity of its membership to provide leadership in industry initiatives such as advocacy, policy and regulatory engagement, educational programmes and sound practice guides. AIMA works to raise media and public awareness of the value of the industry.
“AIMA Cayman is proud to announce our partnership with CareerMasters. This partnership reflects our commitment to education by empowering students to advance their career prospects and positively contribute to our community. Together, we aim to create pathways for their personal growth and success.” Tim Rossiter, AIMA Cayman.
“CareerMasters aligns with the Ministry of Education’s goal of equipping students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills. We are incredibly optimistic about its potential to enhance our youth’s readiness for the modern workforce and their ability to contribute positively to the future of the Cayman Islands,” said Ms. Lyneth Monteith, Acting Chief Officer for the Ministry of Education.
How to Get Involved
Interested applicants and community members can learn more by emailing hello@career-masters.com or kellysage@rampd.consulting
Interested students who wish to participate in the 2024/2025 programme cycle should approach their Designated CareerMaster Teacher Advocate, as CareerMasters will work in collaboration with those individuals to select student participants.
Applications for the first cohort of students are now open, with the program set to begin in October 2025.
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