100 Women in Finance marked its official relaunch in Bermuda last month with an event titled: Careers that Compound: Industry Insights and New Year Networking, an energising and insight-rich discussion that brought together professionals from across the island’s financial services sector, generously sponsored by LOM.
A spokesperson said, “Hosted as part of the organisation’s Education pillar, the event welcomed members and guests to LOM’s Bermuda headquarters for a candid conversation on how careers, confidence and influence are built over time in investment management and financial services. The evening concluded with a lively networking reception, reflecting both the spirit of the organisation and the unique openness of Bermuda’s professional community.
“The panel featured:
- Anastasia Dede, Managing Director, Hudson Structured Capital Management Ltd.
- Megan Green, Partner, Asset and Wealth Management and Leader, Human Capital and Inclusion and Diversity, PwC
- Makeba Outerbridge, Investment Broker, LOM Financial
- Moderated by Caroline McGill, Chair, Bermuda Investor Community
“A central theme of the evening was the idea that careers, much like investments, grow through compounding: small, consistent decisions and relationships building over time into something far greater than their individual parts.
“Panelists reflected on the inflection points that shaped their journeys. Megan Green shared how working in Australia within a team of more than 4,000 professionals helped her develop deep career confidence. Exposure to colleagues and clients across Hong Kong, Luxembourg, India, Australia and the UK broadened her perspective and reinforced Bermuda’s global relevance. Despite its size, she noted, Bermuda “packs a big punch” in financial services, offering access to sophisticated international markets within a highly connected ecosystem.
“Makeba Outerbridge illustrated how careers can evolve organically. She began as a bank clerk, gaining a front-to-back understanding of operations before pivoting into investment advisory. Starting as a rookie, she built her book of business steadily through consistency, relationship-building and a willingness to learn. Her advice was clear: say yes to conversations. Meet anyone willing to share insight, even if the relevance is not immediately obvious. Especially when you are unsure of your direction, conversations create clarity. She now pays that forward by mentoring young professionals navigating their own early career decisions.
“Moderator Caroline McGill observed that Bermuda’s professional culture is unusually accessible. The willingness of leaders to meet with those they do not yet know is rare globally and represents a distinct advantage for those building careers locally.
“Intentional networking, both inside and outside the workplace, emerged as a recurring theme. Panelists emphasised building supportive environments where advice and empathy can flourish. Mentorship was described not only as guidance but as propulsion, with mentors and sponsors acting as advocates in rooms where decisions are made. Allyship throughout a woman’s career was also highlighted as essential to creating inclusive workplaces. Panelists encouraged attendees to look down the ladder as well as up it, to recognise gaps in diversity and actively support those coming behind them.
“Anastasia Dede encouraged attendees to be intentional about building relationships beyond the immediate context of work. Some of the most meaningful professional growth, she noted, happens in conversations outside formal structures. She also urged women to be open to and actively seek mentorship – identify who they are, what they represent, and which qualities resonate most. Leadership, they suggested, is both learned and chosen. Observe the attributes you respect, adopt what aligns with your values, and consciously leave behind what does not. Leadership, they suggested, is both learned and chosen.
“The discussion also addressed the realities of balancing ambition with personal priorities. Several panelists acknowledged the guilt many women feel when prioritising career while managing responsibilities at home. In the words of Michelle Obama, one reflected, “you can have it all, just not at the same time.”
“The event also marked the formal relaunch of 100 Women in Finance in Bermuda, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to education, peer engagement and professional advancement within the island’s financial community. Alison Morrison, Chair, noted that the relaunch was only possible due to the efforts of dedicated volunteers and extended her thanks to Barbara McWhirter, the panelists and all those in attendance for their contributions and support.
“Barbara McWhirter addressed attendees, inviting professionals to join as members and take advantage of the growing calendar of events planned for the year ahead. Upcoming sessions will include discussions on Artificial Intelligence in Finance and a dedicated mentor and mentee event designed to deepen connections across generations of professionals.
“Attendees were also encouraged to suggest future topics, ensuring that the local chapter remains responsive to the evolving interests and needs of Bermuda’s financial services community.
“For more information about 100 Women in Finance and to become a member, please visit the organisation’s website.”
