NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 3 REIGNING SPELLING Bee Champion and JN scholar, Taevion Morgan, knows toowell the value of balancing work and play. Just months after being named the JN Foundation scholarship recipient for the parish of Manchester, he emerged as The Gleaner/Children’s Own Spelling Bee Champion for 2023. “One thing I live by is whatever you are doing you should try your best, putting in your all because you are more than likely to get the best outcomes and results. Just put all your time and effort in [whatever you are doing] and when you get the reward and achievements it will make you feel good,”the wise young scholar philosophised. Success is not new to the DeCarteret College student who, at seven years old, was declared The Gleaner/Children’s Own Spelling Bee Parish Champion for Manchester in 2018. His mother, Sharee Brown Morgan, said her son’s brilliance was evident from he was attending Knox Junior School and his talent further developed at El Instituto de Mandevilla Preparatory School. “He was top boy for each grade and was also a prefect. He was then the head boy and the top boy of his graduating class,” she said with pride. She has high hopes for Taevion and expects him to excel in the future. “I’m always telling him that he has a bright future and that he is just building a foundation toexcel in the area that he chooses to pursue,”she said. Alroy Morgan is also confident that his son will do well in the future. “I’mhoping for great things for him. Having two children in this economy, a scholarship [at this time] is a great help,” he said. Morgan aims to consistently strike a balance between his academics and extracurricular activities. An athlete at heart, he enjoys playing football, basketball, and does karate. The aspiring software engineer and programmer also enjoys playing video games. His word of encouragement to other students is to read over school notes as soon as they can after class, so that they can retain the information. He said this will help when preparing for exams as it will make reviewing the subject at a later point easier. “The subject that you don’t really like much, that is the one you should spend your time on because you don’t want to get a low score as it will bring down your average. Do practice questions because those are the ones that will help you remember the information,” he said. A scholar and champion speller: Taevion Morgan balances work and play SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO F ATUR | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 “One thing I live by is whatever you are doing you should try your best, putting in your all because you are more than likely to get the best outcomes and results.” Reigning Spelling Bee Champion and JN scholar, Taevion Morgan. CONTRIBUTED JN FOUNDATION
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 7 SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 VM TERTIARY scholars are benefitting from personal and professional development activities through the VM Foundation executive mentorship programme, a collaborative effort with VM Wealth Management Limited. The programme provides VM scholars with access to corporate clients in executive positions. The mentorship sessions allow the corporate clients to share insights on the state of play in various sectors, emotional intelligence, networking, entrepreneurship, among other key topics. “At the VM Foundation, we’re keen on shaping the next generation of ‘doers’ in a holistic way. Therefore, we’re pleased to be partnering with VM Wealth Management to help our scholars put one foot in front of the other as they navigate the ever-changing labour market. We’re excited to see the long-term possibilities that will undoubtedly unfold from this programme for the betterment of Jamaica,” said Samantha Charles, chief executive officer of the VM Foundation. Ten scholars at the undergraduate level and four at the graduate level have so far benefitted from the engagements. The most recent session, which was held on April 2, featured a discussion on the theme, ‘Learning Lessons from Each Experience and Honing a Spirit of Excellence’. This session was led by Gordon Swaby, founder and CEO of EduFocal Limited, and Nicole Adamson, manager for research, business planning and investor relations at VMWealth. As the foundation seeks to deliver on its core mandate of values-based youth development, the top-twomentee presenters were given VM Wealth gift certificates valued at $10,000 to open accounts, while Swaby committed to giving six mentees who presented $10,000 each to open VMWealth Accounts. Adamson said, “This is a game changer in youth empowerment and is doing something significant by opening pathways to corporate Jamaica for the next generation while strengthening the philanthropic and wealth management arms of VM Group. We’re pleased to be able to touch the future in such a meaningful way by supporting the nurturing and development of brilliant minds, as well as dynamic and impactful future leaders.” Gordon Swaby (left), founder and CEO, EduFocal Limited, with Samantha Charles, CEO, VM Foundation, following an executive mentorship session. CONTRIBUTED VM Foundation organises executive mentorship programme VM FOUNDATION
SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 ADVERTISEMENT 15
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 17 SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO F ATUR | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 THERE IS a Chinese proverb that says, “if you are planning for a year, sow rice, if you are planning for a decade, plant a tree, if you are planning for a lifetime educate people.” We might all agree that this proverb fits well within the Jamaican thinking that teachers educate the future generations. The JTA Credit Union (JTACCUL), since its inception in 1959, has been a lifeline for Jamaica’s teachers. The credit union offers savings and investment products that have helped many teachers. Additionally, by providing a variety of loan solutions with little to no fees and favourable financing terms, the credit union continues to be committed to supporting our teachers who wish to invest in their own futures, but are unable to do so. The JTA Credit Union is a member-owned organisation. This means that each member is a part owner of the organisation, and, as such,, they have the right to share and suggest ways that the credit union can be improved or maintained. Another way that the credit union takes care of its members is through the offer of scholarships, grants and bursaries. HOW DO THESE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS WORK? The credit union offers a tertiary scholarship awarded to members who are pursuing studies and are in their final year. Educators who are pursuing a undergraduate or a master’s degree and are members of the credit union may apply for a scholarship from the organisation. The programme is divided into four categories: grants, scholarships, W. A. Johnson award and D. C. Gascoigne award for excellence. The W. A. Johnson award category, which was added in 2022, honours the hard work and commitment of one of the credit union’s original members. Sherene Anderson-McLaughlin was the first member to receive this award. The D.C. Gascoigne Award has been a part of the scholarship programme since 1984 and is the most prestigious of the awards. In addition to the tertiary scholarship awarded tomembers, the credit union also offers PEP bursaries to children entering secondary schools and whose parents are members of the credit union. The credit union is committed to the well-being of all its members and seeks to support them in a variety of ways beyond loans, savings, and investments. The organisation stands with our teachers every step of the way, living up to our motto serving our members, impacting lives positively. Jamaica Teachers Association Co-operative Credit Union 2022 Tertiary Scholarship winners. CONTRIBUTED JTA Credit Union serves members in many ways
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 18 SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 THROUGH ITS annual scholarship programme, Carreras Limited has been a beacon of hope for countless university students across Jamaica. The company has made it its duty to render assistance to as many university students as possible who dream of acquiring higher education. The scholarships, which vary in category, are presented to Jamaican students enrolled at a number of recognised community colleges and universities across the island. Each student possesses an exemplary academic record and are in dire need of financial assistance. In 2022, Carreras awarded a record 90 scholarships to students; 20 of the awardees were also granted a 2021 Carreras Scholarship. The company prides itself in not only assisting these promising young leaders on a one-off basis, it has made a commitment to see the scholars through to their total academic journey, once they maintain good grades and active involvement in their schools and communities. Two such scholars who have been able to do so, and, as a result, copped a coveted Carreras Scholarship two years in a row, are nursing students, Derron Jackson and Tahj-Monique McCauley. Jackson is a third-year student at Excelsior Community College in St Andrew who is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree in nursing programme. He received a Carreras Community College Scholarship valued at $100,000 in 2021 and was successful in acquiring the same award in 2022. He is the first of three children being raised by a single mother who struggles to obtainmeaningful employment. “Over the years, I’ve seen my mother try to make sure that we go to school every day and that we eat, even if it’s only a little bit of food, with the help of my aunts and grandmother. However, as my siblings and I get older, our financial demands have grown dramatically”, he said. It was these challenges that motivated Jackson to seek a Carreras scholarship to fund his education in the hope that it will alleviate some of the financial burdens his family experiences. Despite the financial hardship, he always performed well in school. It therefore came as no surprise that his GPA of 3.94 in 2021 and 3.86 in 2022 enabled him to land two consecutive Carreras Community College Scholarships. ACADEMIC PROWESS In both years, his applications stood out among the more than 1,000 applications submitted as a result of his academic prowess and his remarkable extra-curricular and volunteerism involvements. He is currently the class representative for the 2022/2023 academic year and a junior member of the Nurses Association of Jamaica. He still serves as an activemember of the Creative Educated andOptimisticYouth Club of his alma mater, Christiana High School, and has carried out numerous philanthropic activities, such as feeding homeless individuals in Manchester and providing clothes to those in need. He has also volunteered with Sagicor Foundation at its 2022 annual Sigma Run and assessed blood pressure levels of individuals for Food for the Poor on World Hypertension Day 2022. He is highly respected by his peers and family and commonly referred to as a promising future leader. Like Jackson, McCauley is an aspiring paediatric nurse. She is enrolled at The University of theWest Indies, Western Jamaica Campus and is currently in her final year of nursing school. In 2022, she boasted a GPA of 3.63, and in 2021, a GPA of 3.83 which both allowed her to also emerge as a two-time Carreras scholar. She, too, was raised by a single mother who unfortunately succumbed to breast cancer in early 2021, just three months after her diagnosis. McCauley saw the need to apply for a Carreras Scholarship during the time her family was experiencing great financial strain as a result of her mom’s cancer treatment, doctor’s appointments, chemotherapy, and medication. “Thankfully, the Carreras teamhad faith inmy potential. After receiving the email that I was awarded, it was like a miracle. I was overjoyed that I could alleviate some financial strain and I was elated to see my family smile during such a sad time,” she said. McCauley has served as treasurer for the St James Parish Youth Council in 2018 and 2020 and president of the science and sign language clubs at Montego Bay High School. She also volunteered as the secretary of the Western Regional Health Authority in 2021 and worked as a nursing assistant at Cornwall Regional Hospital where she assisted in delivering newborns. “Before my mother passed in 2021, she helpedme write my thank you letter to Carreras. She described it as an“opportunity to see beyond these grey skies” during such a sad time and “another reason to smile”. Thanks to this, Carreras is now an irreplaceable and invaluable part of my life, and I will always be grateful,” she shared. Today, McCauley makes it her duty to make her mom proud by doing her best in her studies while assisting her stepfather in taking care of her two-year-old sister whom her mom left in their care. When asked what her ultimate goal in life is, she said, “My longterm goal is to use the skills that I have gained in nursing school to save lives and help individuals maintain or achieve good health. I am cognisant of the fact that nurses, in general, are in demand. So, I will join our health care system and do my utmost best to positively impact the lives of individuals.” Tahj-Monique McCauley (left), receives her 2022 scholarship certificate from Head of Finance at Carreras Limited, Verona Williamson. PHOTOS BY O’NEIL GRANT Stellar academic performance by aspiring nurses result in double Carreras Scholarship Awards TWO YEARS IN A ROW! ‘Thankfully, the Carreras team had faith in my potential. After receiving the email that I was awarded, it was like a miracle. I was overjoyed that I could alleviate some financial strain and I was elated to see my family smile during such a sad time.’ CARRERAS LIMITED Derron Jackson (left) is presented with his 2022 scholarship certificate by Antiillicit Trade and Engagement Manager at Carreras Limited, Olivia Betrand.
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NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 20 SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 2022 Carreras scholars express gratitude at scholarship award ceremony Thank you, Carreras! “Awesome, yay! My excitement cannot be expressed through words. I am truly grateful and thankful. Thank you so very much for this awesome opportunity. I will not disappoint you all.” – Carla Plunkett, 2022 Special Award Winner “It is with the utmost joy and appreciation that I thank you for this honour. Out of so many good applicants, I am happy that I was selected as a recipient. It highlights the faith that you have placed in myself as a future nation builder. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and I am indeed indebted to your group for this kindness shown. Thank you again!” – Rhameish Smith, 2022 Special Award Winner “I am truly grateful that you’ve given me this opportunity to study without issue, as this will undoubtedly remove a great deal of stress off my parents’ shoulders. Again, I’m honoured that I was chosen for the Carreras Special Award.” – Kemuel Russell, 2022 Special Award Thank you, thank you so so much. Words cannot express how thankful I am! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to attend university and make something of myself. I will make you proud!” – Azailiah Smith, 2022 SEEK Scholar “Thank you very much for this opportunity. I have been trying for the last three years and this year I finally secured it. Thank you very much!” – Calaycia Henry, 2022 Community Colleges Scholar “Thank you, I am honoured to be one of this year’s SEEK scholarship recipients. I am extremely grateful. I am one step closer towards achieving my dreams because of your assistance. Thank you for supporting me towards reaching my fullest personal and professional potential.” – Tianna McDaniel, 2022 SEEK Scholar “I would like to take time out to thank Carreras Limited for giving me a helping hand to start my tertiary education at Northern Caribbean University and helping me to realise that there is still hope.” – Theo Knight Tomlinson, 2022 SEEK Scholar “Thank you so much for rewarding me with this scholarship! I cannot tell you how grateful I am for this opportunity. A huge burden has been lifted thanks to Carreras Limited. I feel confident now finishing my last year of dental school strong with your support.” – Abigail Parague, 2022 SEEK Scholar
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 22 SCHOLARSHIPS O GO FEATUR | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 HOPE, PRAYER and a determination to succeed backed by a Burger King scholarship have been touted as the recipe for success by several 2022 recipients of tertiary scholarships and bursaries. Shaquille Brown (2022 Rodwell Lake Scholar), who was admitted to biochemistry at The University of the West Indies (UWI) said that “ the value of education is something that I have understood since a very young age. Neither of my parents had an opportunity to attend college, and facedmany struggles in their personal and professional lives because of this. This struggle especially affectedmymother who has seven children including myself. I now have an opportunity to become the first person in my family to attend college, with Burger King’s financial assistance I can now realise what has been a long-term goal for me and a dream for my mother. Khalia Patterson (2022 Lois Sherwood Scholar), who attends Caribbean Maritime University to study for a bachelor’s in engineering degree in industrial systems also has had a journey of financial difficulties. Due to an ailing mother she had to take a break from school in her sixth-form year when she began working to provide for the household. BACK ON TRACK Khalia recalled, “ I returned to school after three months and was able to pick up on my studies with the help of the school’s facilities and staff. After which I was granted a scholarship that paid for the three years of tuition I could not clear. Then I lost my brother to gun violence and had to take another break from school. But with help fromBurger King I amcurrently on track towards my university degree.” Ajani Campbell (2022 BK Open Scholar) said that the Burger King scholarship has put him on the path to realising his dreamof becoming a production manager. He is studying for a bachelor’s degree in operations management at The UWI. He said, “I cannot wait to use my degree to help create new innovative solutions and manage them for whichever company I get to work with so that it will serve customers in the best possible way.” Burger King is inviting applications for its 2023 scholarship programme. For more information log on to: https://www.raljm.com/ burger-king-national-scholarships. Donna Ventura (left), company director, Burger King, presents the 2022 Lois Sherwood Scholarship to Khalia Patterson. CONTRIBUTED Burger King’s 2022 tertiary scholars on the road to success SINCE THE introduction of its scholarship programme in 2001 by former chairman Lois Sherwood; Burger King’s has awarded over $60 million in scholarships, bursaries and book grants to over 300 of Jamaica’s youth who have had great potential, but also great financial challenges. Awards are given to primary, secondary and tertiary students. In 2022 they received 544 applications, with 447 seeking assistance for tertiary study, which indicated that post-secondary education is where the greatest need for financial aid exists. Burger King has four types of tertiary awards through which scholarships, bursaries and grants are given each year. These include: 1.Lois Sherwood Scholarship, valued at $1,000,000; payable over three years of tertiary studies. • Awarded to a sixth-form student in need from St AndrewHigh School for Girls. 2. Rodwell Lake Scholarship, valued at $1,000,000; payable over three years of tertiary studies. • Awarded to a sixth-form student in need from St George’s College. 3.Two Burger King Open Tertiary Scholarships (male and female), each valued at $1,000,000; payable over three years of tertiary studies. • Open to two exceptional students in need from any parish. 4.Lois Sherwood Arts Scholarship, valued at $300,000, for a final year at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. PEP awards for sixth-grade students moving on from primary schools to high schools are also being offered. These include: Five awards valued at $50,000 per year for five years of high school. • Open to primary-school Grade 6 students island wide. Ten book grants valued at $15,000. • Payable for one year. Valda Ormsby Scholarship, valued at $50,000 per year for five years at Clarendon College. • Open only to Kellits Primary school grade-six students. Burger King expects to award at least 30 new awardees in 2023, in addition to over 30 returning recipients. The overall annual investment is expected to be in excess of $8.5 million dollars. Applications for secondary- and tertiary-level scholarships open Monday, May 15, and close on Friday, June 30. Those interested can log on to https://www.raljm. com/burger-king-national-scholarships. Criteria for all scholarships can also be found on the website. Valda Ormsby (left), general manager at Burger King, presents a PEP award to a 2022 recipient. CONTRIBUTED Burger King to invest over $3 million in scholarship programme BURGER KING
SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 24 ADVERTISEMENT
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 25 SCHOL RSHIPS TO GO FEA URE | THE GLEANE | THURSDAY MAY 18, 2023 SMITTENBY the emotional blow of losing his mother while he was in high school, Glenardo Simpson who lives in Brandon Hill, Clarendon, had to think hard on how he would realise a dream of getting tertiary education. That opportunity came when he learned about the J.Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation Scholarship Programme in 2019, and he did not hesitate to press ahead. His five years at Claude McKay High School in Clarendon, and a further two for sixth form at Clarendon College, prepared himwell for further studies at CaribbeanMaritime University (CMU) … that badly needed an injection of cash to handle what was a major struggle to survive. “It was a strenuous process to get a loan from the Students’ Loan Bureau,” said Glenardo, who approached the JWN Foundation while in his second of a four-year degree in logistics and supply chain management at CMU. Maintaining a 3.0 GPA ensured that he was fully covered by the company for the remaining two years of his course. Through that, he was able to lay the foundation for his future, and now looks ahead with optimism. “I needed to get a scholarship. The programme that Wray & Nephew has is a very important one. “J. Wray & Nephew is one of those companies that is setting an example. As a corporate entity it is giving back to the communities that they serve, like in St Elizabeth and Clarendon. It is a very important programme. It helps a lot. It helps children from families who can’t afford it, to gain higher education, to get a better life for themselves, and their families,” he said. Now a warehouse specialist in the logistics department at J. Wray & Nephew, Glenardo is eternally grateful. “It has been a great experience for me. It is a company that assists development and offers a lot to learn, and it helps you to think, and analyse situations,” said the former Headley Cup cricketer, footballer, debator and school quiz team member. Glenardo Simpson, J. Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation scholarship recipient. CONTRIBUTED Glenardo Simpson aims high JWN FOUNDATION
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 26 SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO F A URE | THE GLEANE | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 BRITNEY WILLIAMS lived in an environment where it was possible to dream big, and later accomplish that dream along the course that was crafted for it. Williams, daughter of a J. Wray & Nephew Ltd employee, attended Immaculate Conception High School from 2011 to 2018. So by time tertiary scholarships became available, she was in themix to get one of them, which she did in 2018 by enrolling at The University of the West Indies, Mona, and later transferred to the St Augustine campus, Trinidad andTobago. At the end of it all, she earned her bachelor’s degree in chemical and process engineering. She said the scholarship created a kind of red carpet atmosphere, and is encouraging other high school leavers to go searching for the academic gold mine that is out there. “My first interaction with the JWN Foundation would have been at one of the events when I was in high school. I was introduced to everybody responsible for the foundation. I knew I was in the right place,” she said. “In the same way, it continued with me into my tertiary education and it helped in terms of family, for me to actually move out of Jamaica, get access to information and actually come back and give back to a company here,” Williams, who is now a junior projects engineer at J. Wray & Nephew continued. Having got so much from the scholarship, and cognizant of what receiving support to further one’s education means, Britney has turned to her alma mater to, as she puts it, “give back to an institution that moulded me heavily in every way possible.” “I am trying to get involved with my school’s alumnae. Also, I recently went back to my high school and had conversations with some grade-nine students, they are choosing subjects at this time and trying to figure out what direction to head into. I told them to do research, go online, look into scholarships, look into availability, these things are not just going to pop up, you have to do the research. “That’s the only way I found out about a lot of scholarships and opportunities in general. Scholarships are like large stepping stones that allow you to come close to the dream that you have, whether it is to become an engineer, a doctor, or something else,”Williams said. Britney Williams, J. Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation Scholarship Recipient. CONTRIBUTED MARINE ENGINEER Jevonnie Fennell has a message for young people seeking scholarships: “Don’t think limits. The world is ours.” The profound words come as he reflects on his achievements thus far, having profited from a J. Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation scholarship to study for four years at the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU). “This is a transformer. I have to extend my sincere gratitude to the JWN Foundation because they gave a youth from the inner city a chance – a fair shot at life,”the Kingston College old boy Fennell said of the scholarship he received in 2017, which he completed with a 3.9 GPA. The achievement is special to the resident of volatile Waterhouse, near to J. Wray & Nephew’s headquarters, as he believes that it will inspire other community youth to match or exceed him. “Another thing I would say to scholarship seekers is ‘don’t give up’. My parents couldn’t afford to send me to university, so I had to look a scholarship. I had the drive and I knew I had to go to college, because I want betterment for myself and family. So young people should continue to search, because nowadays there are more opportunities, more scholarships out there from corporate entities and foundations,”he said while revealing that it was through combing social media platforms that he came upon the J. Wray & Nephew Foundation Master Blender Scholarship. Functioning a year now as a mechanical technician in the Maintenance/Engineering Department of J. Wray & Nephew, Fennell also serves as director of scout operations at the Scouts Association of Jamaica, with which he has been affiliated since age six. For the duration of his stint at CMU, he taught mathematics voluntarily in Waterhouse on Sundays, as stipulated by the guidelines of the scholarship. It was through that programme that youth who hitherto dislikedmath, and had little to do with the subject, earned grades one and two passes in their regional examinations. “I am still inspiring people in Waterhouse,” said the man whose only sport at school was running up in the stands cheering at ‘Champs’. “The JWN Foundation is my second family; it does a lot for people and gives professional advice,”Fennell ended. Jevonnie Fennell, J. Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation scholarship recipient. CONTRIBUTED Jevonnie Fennell urges youth to look beyond challenges “This is a transformer. I have to extend my sincere gratitude to the JWN Foundation because they gave a youth from the inner city a chance – a fair shot at life.” “Scholarships are like large stepping stones that allow you to come close to the dream that you have, whether it is to become an engineer, a doctor, or something else.” JWN FOUNDATION Britney Williams makes a mark in engineering
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 27 SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO F ATUR | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 THE BETTING Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) is inviting tertiary students to apply for the 2023-2024 BGLC Tertiary Education Grant. The BGLCTertiary Education Grant is an important initiative for the regulator of Jamaica’s gambling industry, as it enables the Commission to ensure that proceeds of gambling are used for good causes. Vitus Evans, executive director of the BGLC, said: “The BGLC will invest $19M to assist tertiary students with tuition fees for the academic year 2023-2024. Qualified students will receive $60,000 each towards tuition.” The grant is applied to tuition fees for undergraduate studies only, at any tertiary institution in Jamaica. The BGLC accepts applications from students attending first to fourth year of an undergraduate programme at an accredited tertiary institution in Jamaica. Students may be participating in any course of study; however, they must be attending full-time, and be no older than 26 years in September 2023. APPLICATION PORTAL To access the online application portal, students should visit the BGLC’s website at www.bglc. gov.jm. Students are required to complete the online form, providing information on their course of study, personal contact details, and contact details for two references. App l i ca t i ons mus t be accompanied by supporting documents, which are uploaded to the online portal. The documents required are a current photograph, certified copies of a national photo ID, and the latest available transcript reflecting grades for at least 1 semester of the 2022-2023 academic year, and a GPA of at least 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale). An important aspect of the application is a 600-word writing assignment. “Each year, we ask the students to complete a writing assignment which demonstrates their awareness of an issue related to the gambling industry,”explained Wendy Robertson, manager, corporate affairs & communication at the BGLC. The theme for the 2023 period is ‘Responsible Gaming’. The deadline for applications for the 2023-2024 BGLC Tertiary Education Grant is July 14, 2023. The BGLC has invested J$104 million to assist over 1,800 students since the launch of the BGLC Education Grant in 2014. BGLC Chairman, Clovis Metcalfe (right), presents a BGLC’s Tertiary Education Grant awardee with a package. CONTRIBUTED BGLC invites applications for tertiary education grant BGLC
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 28 SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO F ATURE | THE GLEANE | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 TWENTY-THREE-YEAR-OLD JADEJA James, the Jamaica Energy Partners 2018 scholarship awardee says the scholarship did not only pave her way to success, but propelled her philanthropic endeavours. Inspired by the JEP, James, a physiotherapist employed to the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) within the Ministry of Health and Wellness said, “I believe in investing in youths. I am an example and product of what that looks like.” The St Jago High School alumna told The Gleaner that despite 10 Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) subjects with six grade ones, and four Caribbean Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) subjects, her potential matriculation into university looked bleak, as there was one hurdle, money. James, who is from Old Harbour in St Catherine said taking a student loan would unearth long-term financial burdens for her, and so she opted to seek alternatives. “I had already made up my mind that I was not going to take the student loan. As a young person coming in, I didn’t want to start my adult life in debt, so I knew that a student loan was not going to be the route for me. I wasn’t exactly sure where the money was going to come from, but I knew for a fact that student loan was not going to be it.” James said a friend advised that she applied for the JEP scholarship. She said word that she was granted the scholarship came as a relief. EASED THE PRESSURE Speaking of the scholarship, James said, “It took the mental struggle and strain off of studying, so I could focus on being a student. I didn’t have to bounce around trying to figure out where the money was coming from, or will I get locked out of exams. Every semester I knew that the money was there, so I could focus one hundred per cent on being my best self in school, and just enjoy the university experience.” The scholarship, valued at $250,000 yearly was applicable throughout her tenure at The University of the West Indies, Mona. The JEP scholarship fund was founded in 1997. JEP said it “understands that ‘Powering a Brighter Future’ begins with securing and actualising the academic prospects of our youth.” “One of the questions is how your career will tie back into energy, and how it will then benefit the wider Caribbean at large, because the Jamaica Energy Partners are big on corporate-social responsibility, so they always want to know howwhat you are doing will benefit Jamaica at large,” said James. James said that she was first introduced to the physiotherapy arm of medicine while serving as an intern at the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) in 2017. She currently works at May Pen Hospital in Clarendon, and is basks in the positive impacts she is able to make in the lives of her patients. She also credited her success to strong family support, asserting that having a strong community behind her was motivating. She said she is forever grateful to JEP, for giving Jamaican youths a chance to actualise their dreams. “It’s not something I down only any at all,” James said. Jadeja James. CONTRIBUTED EDUCATION IS paramount to one’s development and everyone should have the opportunity to access education in a way that will enable their success. However, the trials and tribulations of life might stand as great barriers to access what we need and it might be difficult to see a way to overcome these obstacles. Thankfully, Jamaica Energy Par tners has made it their mandate to help students to minimise the financial obstacles to find their way to a better education. In my journey to become a medical doctor, they have provided invaluable assistance that helped my parents in being able to afford my tuition. As I complete my final days in this programme, my heart is full of gratitude for their indelible contribution that helpedmake it possible. I believe that many others can and will benefit from their benevolence, goodwill and genuinely kind hearts. Thank you, Jamaica Energy Partners, for playing a part in helping me to actualize my dreams. AS A past recipient of the Jamaica Energy Partners Group scholarship, I can assert with confidence that the programme has positively transformed my life in numerous ways. Inmy first year of university, I faced the daunting challenge of medical bills and was left with no option, but to depend on the benevolence of my grandmothers to make ends meet. However, the JEP Group scholarship not only lifted the weight of financial constraints, but also instilled in me a sense of determination to achieve academic excellence. As a final-year computer science major, I am specialising in cyber security, a field that is of utmost importance in today’s society. With the help of the JEP Group’s scholarship programme, I have been able to pursue this passion and make strides towards breaking down barriers for women in STEM fields. This experience has not only broadened my horizons, but has also allowedme to gain invaluable skills and knowledge that will undoubtedly benefit me in my future endeavours. Thanks to the JEP Group, I have been able to focus on my academic pursuits without the added stress of financial burden, enabling me to excel in my studies and make the most of my university experience. As a result, I was able to maintain a high standard of academic performance which led to annual placements on the dean’s honour roll. This, in turn, opened numerous opportunities for me, including coveted cyber security internships and other academic prospects. Beyond the financial assistance, this scholarship programme has instilled a sense of belonging within me. The programme’s community initiatives have allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who share a philanthropic mindset which helps me to contribute to the betterment of society. I strongly advocate for all students to apply to the JEP Group’s scholarship programme, as it provides more than just financial aid, allowing you the freedom to explore your passions to their fullest potential. Breanna Julal, Jamaica Energy Partners Group Scholarship recipient. CONTRIBUTED JAMAICA ENERGY PARTNERS GROUP Jadeja James: JEP scholarship paved way for success TESTIMONIALS JEP providing invaluable assistance JEP allowing you the freedom to explore your passions Abbigail Parchment, past recipient of the Jamaica Energy Partners Group scholarship. CONTRIBUTED
SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 ADVERTISEMENT 29
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 30 SCHOL RSHIPS TO GO FEA URE | THE GLEANE | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 THE HOUSE of Issa, parent company of Couples Resorts, invites eligible male students to apply for the Elias A. Issa Scholarship for the coming academic year. The House of Issa established the Issa Scholarship for Jamaican men and women in 1938, at the behest of Elias Issa, who founded the House of Issa business conglomerate in 1894. The full, three-year scholarship was set up“to enable selected candidates to pursue special courses designed to lead to careers in technical and practical work in industry and commerce, or any other profession or calling provided”. Each year, alternating betweenmales and females, the scholarship committee identifies an exceptional candidate who displays the initiative, originality, and force of character that epitomizes the spirit of the House of Issa and its founder, Elias Issa. For over 80 years, the Elias A. Issa Scholarship has made it possible for men and women to pursue the training necessary to fulfil their own goals, as well as making immeasurable contributions to national development. Some distinguished previous Issa Scholars are G. Arthur Brown, former governor of the Bank of Jamaica; Professor Gladstone Mills; former Minister of Education Burchell Whiteman; Petrona Morrison, former head of the School of Art at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts; and Professor Donald Harris of Stanford University, father of the current vice-president of the United States, Kamala Harris. Areas of study: Faculty of Management Studies at The University of theWest Indies or the Faculty of Business Management (School of Business Administration) at the University of Technology, Jamaica, beginning August 2022. Course of study: Undergraduate degree Value: The scholarship is intended to cover the cost of tuition fees for three years and assist the recipient with books and maintenance costs. Age: Applicants should be below the age of 25 on October 1, 2023. Eligibility: Applicants should be in possession of good passes in GCE A-Level examinations or CAPE and have been accepted or currently studying at The University of the West Indies or the University of Technology, Jamaica. How to apply: Application forms are available on the Ministry of Education’s website: www.moey. gov.jm Two completed forms, along with supporting documents, except for transcripts and recommendations, must be emailed to scholarships@ moey.gov.jm. The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Youth and Information Attention: Tertiary Unit 2 National Heroes Circle Kingston 4 Deadline for applications: Friday, June 30, 2023 NB: Application forms for civil servants must be accompanied by letter(s) of approval from the chief personnel officer or his/her representative. Elias A. Issa. FILE 1938 – Mr W.V. Rose 1939 – Miss L.C. Edwards 1940 – Mr R.H. Bond 1941 – Miss G.M.C. Rennie 1942 – Mr D.L.C. Rennie 1943 – Miss J. Oppenheim 1944 – Prof G.E. Mills 1945 – Miss P.C. McPerson 1946 – Hon G. Arthur Brown 1947 – Miss M.G. Wilson 1948 – Mr R.M. Murray 1949 – Miss Joy Bowman 1950 – Mr B.J. Reckord 1951 – Miss Linda Purser 1952 – Mr B. Batchelor 1953 – Miss Yvonne Correoso 1954 – Dr Roy A. Meikle 1955 – Mrs Barbara Jones-Nelson 1956 – Mr Hopeton L. Gordon 1957 – Miss Rosemarie Tate 1958 – Dr Earle Roberts 1959 – Miss Faith Bowman 1960 – Mr Donald J. Harris 1961 – Miss Jean Blake 1962 – Mr Burchell Whiteman 1963 – Miss Edith Guntley 1964 – Mr Leighton Holness 1965 – Miss Ann Mickling 1966 – Mr John Graham 1967 – Miss Fay Rodgers 1968 – Mr Parris Kidd 1969 – Miss Hannah Francis 1970 – Mr Gladstone Anderson 1971 – No award was made 1972 – No award was made 1973 – Miss Petrona Morrison 1974 – Mr Linroy Marshall 1975 – Miss Shirley-Ann Eaton 1976 – Mr Clive Thomas 1977 – Miss Jacqueline Lynch 1978 – Mr Donovan Calder 1979 – No award was made 1980 – Ms Maureen Irons-Morgan 1981 – Mr Orville Nembhard 1982– Ms Sita Dickson-Littlewood 1983 – Mr Peter Swaby 1984 – No award was made 1985 – No award was made 1986 – Miss SharonWatson 1987 – Mr Robert Reid 1988 – Miss Cheryl Clarke 1989 – Mr Lascelles Spaulding 1989 – Miss Cherie Emile Corrie – special 50thAnniversary Scholarship 1990 – Miss Avril Williams 1991 – Mr Joseph Plummer 1992 – Miss Karen Young 1993– MrVaughanEastonWhittaker 1994 – Miss Karen Anderson 1995 – Mr Basil Waite 1996 – Ms Twayna Smith 1997 – Mr Hector Campbell 1998 – Ms Adria Pennycooke 1999 – Mr Andrew Bogle 2000 – Ms Gillian Gordon 2001 – Mr Thaddetti Tulloch 2002 – Ms Kerry-AnnWatson 2003 – Mr Christopher Wilks 2004 – Ms Peta-Gaye Hardy 2005 – Mr Derrace Mccallum 2006 – Ms Nicola Barret 2007 – Mr Ricardo Pitter 2008 – Ms Daynea Jackson 2009 – Mr Andre Brown 2010 – Ms Kimberly Coote 2011 – Mr Orlando Lewis 2012 – Ms Julie-Anne Alecia Bent 2013 – Mr Richard Burnett 2014 – Ms Alecia Hayles 2015 – Mr Khasi Dewar 2016 – Ms Tamick Segree 2017 – Mr Travis Rowe 2018 – Ms DejeanaWilliams 2019 – Mr Allano Fyffe 2020 – No award was made 2021 – Ms Serena Rhodes 2022 – Mr Ricardo Smith Past Elias A. Issa Scholarship Awardees Couples Resorts offers the Elias A. Issa full university scholarship Carreras Limited scholarship recipients pose for a group photo at the award ceremony, at the Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston on Saturday, January 28, 2023. NICHOLAS NUNES/PHOTOGRAPHER
NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 31 SCHOL RSHIPS TO GO FEA URE | THE GLEANE | THURSDAY MAY 18, 2023 Students (seated, from left) Tamai McLean, Daunja Galloway, and Celine Sitladeen sign contracts after being awarded Rio Tinto Alcan Legacy Fund scholarships to attend the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) on Thursday, October 13, 2022. The signing process was observed by Mining Minister Audley Shaw (right, seated). Also looking on behind them are (from left) Pauline Williams, from CASE; Joan Thomas Levy, director, admin and finance, Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI); Kemoy Lindsay, director of bauxite lands, JBI; Sherene Golding Campbell, chairman of Rio Tinto Alcan Legacy Fund board; and Suresh Bhalani, principal director of mining at JBI. KENYON HEMANS/ PHOTOGRAPHER Educator Hugh Morris (centre) is bestowed with an honorary doctorate by Mico University College President Dr Asburn Pinnock (left) and Vice-President Dr Kay Dunkley on Thursday. Island Grill restaurateur Thalia Lyn was also conferred with an honorary degree at the graduation ceremony on Thursday, December 1, 2022. KENYON HEMANS/ PHOTOGRAPHER
SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023 32 ADVERTISEMENT
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