After a week of work experience, preparing a presentation and finally delivering it, one student has won the IoD’s annual workplace competition.
Isabella Blackwell from The Ladies’ College won the 2026 IoD Guernsey Leadership Shadowing Programme and was honoured at its awards evening.
She shadowed Cerisse Fisher, a lawyer at Collas Crill, and presented what she had learned from her week watching Guernsey trust and private client law play out in front of her.
Linda Johnson, Advisory Partner at KPMG, who co-led the programme, said: “Congratulations to our winner, Isabella Blackwell, our finalists and all 70 students who participated in this year’s scheme.
“Each student embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and professionalism, and it was inspiring to see the insights they gained from their leadership shadowing experiences reflected in their presentations.”
Ten students were finalists in the annual programme, which brings together industry, students and teachers.
Ms Johnson continued: “The Leadership Shadowing Scheme continues to provide a valuable bridge between education and the world of work, giving students a unique insight into leadership in action while helping them develop confidence, communication skills and career aspirations.
“We are extremely grateful to the Guernsey leaders and organisations who continue to support the scheme. Their commitment enables us to offer this rewarding experience to local students year after year, and KPMG is proud to continue supporting a programme that has such a positive impact on our island’s future talent.”
Ms Johnson co-led the scheme with Lindsey Hart, Commercial Director at Fox Trading.
The programme culminated in an awards evening featuring special guest speakers Paul Gurney, CEO of BecomingX, and Drew Jonkmans, founder of Project Endure. They spoke to the audience about ultramarathons, polar expeditions and the importance of self-belief and authenticity.
Glen Tonks, Chair of the IoD Guernsey Branch, said: “It was a brilliant evening and a real celebration of what these students have achieved over the course of the programme.
“The presentations were all of a very high standard, which
