Derricka Neysmith

Derricka Neysmith fulfills the definition of a well-rounded young lady and a prime example of a young person ‘reaching higher’.

At the age of 14, Derricka passed external exams in English, Electronic Document Preparation and Management, and mathematics, with distinction. The Clifton Hunter High School graduate passed a total of 12 external exams.

She ranked 10 out of 141 students on graduation day and was recognised with several honours. During the ceremony she was also awarded the Save Our Youth (SOY) medallion for community service, on top of gaining recognition for being a top 10 academic student and receiving one of the highest averages in external exams.

After graduation, she went on to Cayman Prep for her A levels. Upon completion, Derricka would like to attend university to obtain a degree in business administration with a concentration in accounting. Currently she is part of the Cayman Finance educational work experience programme, working this month with accounting firm EY.

At 16, Derricka’s accomplishments are not limited to school. Football has been a major part of her life. The winning and hard-work mind-set she has on the field also translates to other areas.

She is a member of Academy Sports Club as well as Cayman Prep’s football team. A proud moment was when she was selected to represent the Cayman Islands at the inaugural CONCACAF U15 Girls Championships. The team made history by advancing to quarter-finals, placing 5^th out of 16 teams. She also represented the country during the U17 World Cup Qualifiers held in the Dominican Republic.

Derricka blends her love of football with community service. She coaches primary school students in two local schools. She also became a FIFA-certified grassroots football coach. She also serves as a coach for Academy Sports Club’s junior football programme.

She and her friend started a teen service group called “Jas & Derri Give Back”. The two hope to attend Global Leadership Adventure Sports Service in Costa Rica next year, and to host a local football drive to collect football gear to donate to international teams who are less fortunate.

If football and school didn’t keep Derricka busy enough, her other extracurricular activities certainly do. She is a member of Key Club, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, student council, and is a “reading buddy” – mentoring young students in literacy.

She also took on various leadership roles Junior Achievement for three years, and has been a member of her church choir for five years.

Giselle Ebanks

At the age of 14, Giselle Ebanks is already an example to her peers; and making great strides in her academic career.

Giselle was named the top Year 10 student at St. Ignatius School. She made school history when she attained a grade point average (GPA) of 4.32, the highest in all of Year 10. Prior, the highest GPA to ever be attained by a student at St. Ignatius over the last 20 year was a 4.26.

Her achievements don’t end there. During her school’s end-of-year ceremony, Giselle was presented with a Sean Darby Award for being the most outstanding student. She took home four subject awards for the highest academic achievement in business studies, English language, French and physics.

In addition to her academic accolades, Giselle was awarded for perfect attendance and is a member of her school’s concert band.

Giselle’s accomplishments are impressive for someone of her young age; however what is remarkable is that she was able to reach those heights despite facing tragedy. In 2013, Giselle’s mother died at the end of summer holidays. Despite her grief Giselle worked hard to rise to the top, and to be an example to her younger brother Kiefer.

Giselle’s gentle and caring personality is one that makes her loved and respected by peers and teachers alike. She demonstrates the qualities of determination and fortitude; and continuously strives for excellence. As she follows a determined path, Giselle is poised to attain even more successes, and to continue to make her family, friends, school and community proud.

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Proud of Them finalist Derricka Neysmith

Proud of Them finalist Giselle Ebanks