Nearly 70 guests consisting of students, government officials and private sector members recently met for an evening of networking, opportunities and refreshment.

On Thursday, 18 July 2016, Cayman Connection UK (CCUK) held its third annual reception at St. Ignatius, Loyola Hall from 6 – 8pm, preceded by a culture workshop from 5– 6pm.

Derived from the ‘Friends of Cayman’ organization, Cayman Connection UK was established to provide support and opportunities for Caymanians living, studying or working in the United Kingdom.

Prior to the networking event, approximately 20 students attended a special “UK Culture Workshop” headed by founder Jennifer Dilbert, MBE, and Friends of Cayman member Kate Kandiah, along with some student ambassadors.

This session touched on topics such as the importance of networking, the Cayman Islands and UK governments and political structures, the role of CCUK, the London Offices and the Department of Tourism, and lastly, the portrayal of the Cayman Islands’ financial services industry to the UK layperson and accompanying misconceptions.

The reception commenced with a short welcome by Kate Kandiah, event organizer. Ms Kandiah briefed the audience on the organisation and its growing numbers of almost 300 members. She also apologized for the absence of Eric Bush, the new London Office representative, and shared his message.

Remarks followed from Hon. Premier Alden McLaughlin, who assured the students that friends, family members and the entire Cayman Islands are cheering them on.

Hon. Tara Rivers, Minister of Education, added words of encouragement, stating, “We need to find each other, support each other and help each other succeed – that’s very much what CCUK is about”.

Mourant Ozannes representative, Alex Last, next spoke on behalf of the law firm. He offered the possibility of a career to students, as well as expressing the firm’s delight in giving back to the community by investing in students and sponsoring CCUK.

Student Ambassadors, Emily Sully and David Ramsaran then shared some of their personal experiences and the importance of CCUK.

Closing remarks and vote of thanks were given by a Student Ambassador Kenroy Millwood, who thanked the sponsors and guests for attending and making the event possible.

In regards to the CCUK organization and its purpose in creating such events, Organiser Kate Kandiah stated, “This annual CCUK event is a great opportunity for students to connect with other students who are studying in the UK, to share, advise and support for each other. We also are encouraging more private sector friends to get involved, so that they too, through CCUK, can support our students abroad”.

Ms Kandiah said she was delighted with the turn out for the pre-reception cultural workshop and looking forward to expanding the event next year. She also encouraged all interested to sign up online to CCUK as a student or a friend.

For updates and opportunities, students should register at www.caymanconnection.org , or e-mail [email protected] for more information.