Mentorship and Sponsorship Helps Propel Footballer’s Next Step in U.S.
Seventeen-year-old Ajani Carnegie, a Caymanian student and promising footballer, has relocated to Austin, Texas to begin the next phase of his academic and athletic journey.
Ajani, a former student of Cayman Prep & High School, has been accepted into St. Stephen’s Episcopal School — a private boarding school known for its strong academic curriculum and elite soccer programme — where he will complete his final two years of high school. He was awarded an athletic scholarship and will be training with the school’s soccer academy while taking advanced courses equivalent to A-Levels.
Originally a player with local club 345 FC, Ajani has developed his football skills under the guidance of Cayman-based coaches, including the Cayman Islands National Team coaching staff. He has represented the Cayman Islands in U14, U15, and U17 squads, gaining valuable experience on international tours to the United States, the Caribbean, and Central America. Most recently, he began playing senior-level football locally — a step up that has further prepared him for the competitive environment he’s now entering in the U.S.
“This was the school I was really hoping for,” Ajani said. “I’m excited to push myself — in the classroom and on the pitch.”
From Mentorship to Momentum
Ajani’s opportunity was shaped in part through his involvement in CareerMasters, a Cayman Islands pre-career youth programme which guides high school students towards placements through tailored mentorship, formal programming and work experience opportunities. Through CareerMasters, Ajani was paired with Benjamin Reid, Founder & CEO of Cayman-based financial services firm The Catalyst Group, who was one of several of Catalyst’s executive leadership team to volunteer for CareerMasters. Mr Reid offered guidance and insight to Ajani as he explored both his academic options and future career paths.
Following the mentorship, Catalyst extended a sponsorship to Ajani, contributing to his school and boarding costs and providing structured work experience placements during his school breaks.
“CareerMasters opened my eyes to a lot of new possibilities — not just in football, but in business and finance too.” Said Ajani.
Ajani has expressed interest in a future career in the financial services sector and plans to explore subjects like math and business as part of his academic focus. He hopes to eventually earn a spot at a Division I college football programme, and ultimately, even pursue his dream of playing professional football.
Benjamin Reid, said the decision to support Ajani’s next chapter was an easy one.
“Ajani has shown incredible maturity and drive. At Catalyst, we believe in investing early in young Caymanians who have both talent and character. It’s not just about financial support — it’s about opening doors, building confidence, and helping them see how far they can go.”
Pride, Partnership & Promise
Ajani’s mother, described the experience as “incredibly rewarding — and inspiring.”
“This opportunity is a testament to Ajani’s hard work and dedication,” she said. “The guidance from CareerMasters and the partnership with Catalyst have been instrumental in supporting his journey.”. We’re proud of Ajani and honored that others believe in his potential too.”
Inspiring Others to Say "Yes"
Now based in Austin, Ajani is adjusting to life in a new city, surrounded by new teammates, classmates, and challenges. His story is already inspiring other young Caymanians to think bigger.
His message to students considering similar opportunities? “Even if you’re unsure — take the chance. You never know where it might lead.”
Kelly Sage, Co-Founder of Career Masters, said Ajani’s story highlights the long-term value of early exposure and mentorship for Caymanian students.
“Ajani’s success is the result we look for in CareerMasters — a young person stepping into their potential with the right mix of support and self-belief. His journey shows how mentorship and meaningful workplace opportunities can empower a young person to reach new heights”.