by Rene Hill
Securing a future in the highly competitive worlds of accounting, finance and reinsurance requires more than just academic talent.
It demands strategy, adaptability and the willingness to seek out mentorship and financial backing. For young Bermudians looking to make their mark internationally, 2026 Bermuda Foundation for Insurance Studies Undergraduate Award winner Kahlil Smythe, 21, offers a masterclass in how to navigate this journey successfully.
From his early academic beginnings in Bermuda to studying for a master’s degree at the University of Edinburgh and completing internships in London, Mr Smythe’s trajectory highlights the power of tenacity.
Mr Smythe’s path was not decided overnight. After graduating from CedarBridge Academy, he attended Bermuda College to earn an associate degree in business administration. Rather than rushing into a rigid career path, he used this time to explore his options.
“I knew I wanted to be doing big things in life because I’m not someone who looks for mediocrity,” he explained.
“But I wasn’t sure of the trajectory at first. That’s why I attended Bermuda College — to figure out exactly what direction I wanted to go.”
During his foundational business courses, he discovered an affinity for finance and accounting. Recognising that a specialised pathway offered more concrete career outcomes than a broad business degree, he embarked on a four-year master’s degree in accounting and finance at the University of Edinburgh.
The move to Scotland was a leap of faith. He had never visited the University of Edinburgh prior to his first week of classes; instead, he relied on rigorous, independent research to determine if the institution matched his lifestyle and academic goals.
The gamble paid off handsomely. Mr Smythe describes Edinburgh as a “perfect mix” of vibrant city life and quieter suburban environments, boasting exceptional living conditions and a stellar academic reputation.
For other Bermudians considering university, he strongly advocates for the UK route, particularly for those holding British Overseas Territories status as it makes attending university there a seamless process.
“UK universities are structured more specifically toward what you should actually be learning in your degree,” noted Mr Smythe. “In the States and Canada, you have to take electives that don’t pertain to your degree at all. If you know what you want to do, the UK route is probably the best because you study exactly what you need to achieve your goals.”
Higher education is a major financial undertaking, but he reminded students that an abundance of local scholarships are waiting to be claimed. Alongside his BFIS Undergraduate Award, Kahlil is a KPMG Frontier Scholar. Part of his agreement with KPMG includes a three-year commitment to work with the firm post-graduation, during which he intends to pursue the ACA qualification: the prestigious British equivalent to the CPA.
For students who feel intimidated by the scholarship process, his advice is simple: just do it.
He emphasised that communities and local organisations are actively looking to fund young Bermudians because the local economy needs their talent. He advised applicants to approach the process in increments rather than rushing it, starting preparation months in advance.
“You just want to ensure your resume and cover letters are done to the absolute best of your ability. Having a solid, structured plan of what you want to study, why you want to study it, and what you will do afterward gives you a highly competitive edge.”
Through his participation in the 2026 BFIS Intro to Insurance London internship, Mr Smythe gained direct exposure to the London market and broadened his perspective on where his accounting and finance degree could take him.
Looking forward, Mr Smythe is keeping his options open within Bermuda’s booming reinsurance sector. While many graduates aim strictly for underwriting roles, he sees immense value in starting on the broker side of the business.
“From talking to underwriters in London, many either started as brokers or wish they had,” Mr Smythe reflected. “Broking gives you an incredible dual perspective. You understand the client’s point of view first, and then the underwriter’s point of view. It’s an ideal starting block for a long-term career.”
With a clear vision, strong corporate backing, and a passion for continuous learning, Mr Smythe represents the next generation of Bermudian leadership in global commerce — proving that with proper research, early exploration, and proactive planning, the sky is the limit.
