Cayman Connection is delighted to announce the appointment of Zoe Conolly Basdeo as our new Student Experience Manager, strengthening our commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for Caymanian students studying overseas.

A London-based Caymanian, Zoe brings a wealth of experience spanning management consulting, organisational psychology and mental healthcare administration across both the private and non-profit sectors. Her passion for creating people-centred organisations, championing mental health and wellbeing, and fostering meaningful connections makes her an outstanding addition to the Cayman Connection team.

Many within the Cayman Connection community will already know Zoe, having previously served as our Global Lead Student Ambassador. Her journey from dedicated volunteer to staff member reflects both her commitment to our mission and the impact she has already made within our community.

Leading the Student Experience Across the Globe

In her new role, Zoe will lead the design, delivery and continuous improvement of Cayman Connection’s student experience across the UK, USA and Canada. She will ensure students feel informed, connected and supported throughout every stage of their overseas journey from pre-departure and settling in, through to career preparation, returning home and transitioning into the workforce. As Cayman Connection continues to grow, Zoe will also play a key role in the development of our new member portal, creating a central hub of resources, guidance and opportunities that will support both students and trainees throughout their educational and professional journeys. 

Her role will also focus on:

• Developing and managing a comprehensive library of student resources, webinars, podcasts and digital content through Cayman Connection’s new member portal. 
• Delivering an engaging programme of virtual and in-person events that foster connection, wellbeing and professional development. 
• Leading and expanding Cayman Connection’s Student Ambassador Programme, empowering volunteers to support their peers across the globe. 
• Strengthening student wellbeing initiatives and building supportive communities for Caymanian students overseas. 
• Amplifying the student voice through surveys, focus groups and advisory groups to ensure our services continue to evolve in response to members’ needs. 
• Supporting alumni as they prepare to return home by tracking graduate outcomes, monitoring employment pathways, signposting members to career opportunities and helping students develop the confidence, transferable skills and professional readiness needed to maximise their employability. 

Zoe’s Experience and Commitment to Cayman

Outside of Cayman Connection, Zoe has served as the CARICOM Youth Ambassador for the Cayman Islands (2019–2022), delivered a TEDxSevenMileBeach talk exploring the societal and cultural constraints affecting Caymanian youth, and was an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Representative at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Commenting on her appointment, Zoe said:

“Having previously been part of Cayman Connection as a Global Lead Student Ambassador, it’s a privilege to return in this new role and support the next generation of Caymanians studying overseas. I’m excited to work alongside this fantastic team to shape an outstanding student experience that continually evolves to reflect the needs of our members, helping every student feel empowered, prepared, and that Cayman is never far away!”

Executive Director Ashlea Akinwumi (Webster) said:

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Zoe to the Cayman Connection team as our Student Experience Manager. Having watched her grow from an exceptional Global Lead Student Ambassador into this leadership role, it’s incredibly rewarding to see her continue her journey with us. Zoe already understands the heart of Cayman Connection, our members and our mission, and brings an impressive combination of expertise, passion and fresh ideas. She will be a tremendous asset as we take our student offering to the next level, creating even more opportunities for Caymanian students overseas to feel connected, supported and empowered throughout their journey.”

A New Chapter for Cayman Connection

Zoe’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Cayman Connection as we continue investing in innovative programmes, meaningful connections and world-class support for Caymanian students around the globe.

If you have any questions for Zoe or would like to get in touch, please contact: student@caymanconnection.org.

Dr. Tasha Ebanks Garcia and Zoe Conolly Basdeo representing the Cayman Islands at a community event.