A Cayman marketing student has been awarded a US$10,000 scholarship by the Cayman Islands Marketing Professionals Association (CIMPA).
Aracely Matute-Trejo, who is studying marketing at Bristol University in the UK, was selected in recognition of her academic achievements, leadership, community service and commitment to pursuing a career in marketing.
CIMPA said its selection committee was particularly impressed by Matute-Trejo’s dedication to personal growth, her vision for using marketing to create meaningful impact and her commitment to contributing to the future success of the Cayman Islands.
Matute-Trejo, from Cayman Brac, is currently taking part in a three-month marketing and promotions internship with the Cayman Islands government.
She was recognised during CIMPA’s inaugural Next GEN event on 8 August, which brought together students, interns, emerging marketers and industry professionals for a morning of learning, mentorship and networking.
Held at Union Bar & Grill, the event was designed to give aspiring marketing professionals direct access to people working across marketing, design, branding and communications.
Matute-Trejo told Cayman Independent it was a “great honour” to receive the scholarship.
“I am so grateful to CIMPA for believing in my potential,” she added. “Not only does this opportunity provide valuable financial support towards my studies abroad, but it additionally introduced me to a wonderful community of marketing professionals I may not have otherwise reached from Cayman Brac.
“I look forward to contributing to the marketing industry in the Cayman Islands.”
The Next GEN event included a fireside chat moderated by CIMPA Youth Ambassador Emilie Edgington and a panel featuring Think XYZ founder Keevon Douglas, Dart junior visual designer Gabrielle Scott, Cayman Finance manager of social media and brand Alana Warwick-Smith, and The Design Space founder Brianna Wilson.
Panelists discussed their career journeys, emerging industry trends and the impact of artificial intelligence on marketing, while offering advice to students and young professionals.
CIMPA head of community Erin Bodden said the event was created to help bridge the gap between education and industry.
“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,” Bodden said in a press release.
The event also included a networking session, allowing mentors and mentees to exchange ideas and build professional connections.
Butterfield Cayman supported the event, with its vice president of marketing and communications, Rory Mann, saying the bank was proud to support the next generation of marketing and creative professionals in Cayman.
CIMPA said it would continue to focus on nurturing talent, professional development and connections within Cayman’s marketing industry.
