Alumni Spotlight Two sisters, two paths, much success K
ristin Heyliger ’09 and Rebecca Heyliger ’10 are two BHS alumna who illustrate how a BHS
education nurtures and supports its students along a variety of paths, that ultimately lead to careers and lives that are fulfilling and meaningful. Both sisters are accomplished athletes with Kristin representing Bermuda in gymnastics and Rebecca, more famously, participating at the 2016 Olympics in Rio in the 50 metre freestyle. While they have sports in common, their paths after athletics are quite different.
Today, Kristin, who holds a Bachelors in International Studies, is a farmer, running Wild Island Farm with her husband, “Farmer” Jon.
She says of her post-BHS education: “As opposed to taking the traditional route, I found myself more interested in developing how I think with a more holistic approach to living.” The farm, which is located in Southampton, employs organic principles and sells agricultural products including hen, quail and duck eggs, chickens, animal feed and more. They also operate a petting farm, give tours and run camps for school children.
Rebecca holds a Bachelors in International Relations and Global Business and a Masters in Public Diplomacy from the University of Southern California, where she was also the swim and dive team captain. Today she lives in Copenhagen, Denmark with her fiancé, Mads, and says she may one day return to Bermuda and get involved in politics. Both sisters credit BHS with being supportive of their athletic development while Kristin says gaining the ability to choose her own path was a key takeaway from her time at the School. Rebecca, meanwhile, says she developed her confidence at BHS, in part through her friends who were, “very loud, energetic and outspoken, we were a confident group.”
Torchbearer asked the Heyligers to share more on their career paths.
24 Torchbearer Spring 2018
The Heyliger ladies: Kristin (left) and Rebecca (right) Heyliger with their mother, Margret ‘80. Both these BHS alumna have followed their passions and interests into interesting and rewarding life experiences.
Kristin Heyliger ‘09
Torchbearer: How did your interest in animals, nature and farming develop? Kristin: I have always preferred spending my time actively outdoors in nature. In addition, my interest in sustainable living developed during my Peace & Conflict studies at BHS. At this point in time, I realised the importance of supporting community–based programmes for a brighter future.
TB: Tell us about the farm and how and when the concept developed. Kristin: The farm is where we, my partner and I, developed our hobby into a platform where we are able to share our products, passion and knowledge with others. Our family farm started off as an after school hobby, as Farmer Jon began herding up the tribe you find on the farm today. We have partnered to create family and sustainable programmes for our island to enjoy. At Wild Island we are committed to the natural life, reducing our footprint and providing market goods and services for the benefit of our community.
TB: You run a number of programmes that go beyond “farming”, why do you do that and why is that important? Kristin: Our programmes include petting farm tours and events, farm camps, composting and beekeeping, as well as volunteer opportunities. Through our
Happy family: Kristin Hetliger ‘09 runs Wild Island Farm with her husband “Farmer Jon”, where they produce agricultural products and host family friendly activities for both children and adults.
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