NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2024 21 FROM HER days at Rosehall AllAge in St Elizabeth, Suddanya Martin, now the proud recipient of the Barita Foundation Rita Humphries Scholarship, knew her calling was to become a guiding light in early childhood education. “My personality screams children,” she jokes. For Suddanya, giving back to her community means laying the essential groundwork for young students, ensuring that they are equipped with the foundational skills of literacy and numeracy. “Setting the right foundation is key,” she emphasises, as these skills pave the way for Jamaica’s brighter future. With one year left to complete her bachelor of Education at the Shortwood Teachers College in Kingston, Suddanya is driven by a deep-rooted commitment to her craft. The desire and talent for teaching, she believes, “runs in her veins”, with familial ties binding her to a legacy of educators. Two sisters and a grandaunt have left unforgettable marks on Jamaica’s educational landscape. Reflecting on the transformative power of the scholarship she received, Suddanya’s eyes light up with gratitude. “This opportunity has given me wings to soar,” she exclaims, an indication of the boundless potential within every student. Her journey is not just about personal achievement; it’s about honouring the belief her late mother instilled in her and making her proud. Suddanya urges her peers to seize the many scholarship opportunities available. “Don’t let the cost of education dim your aspirations,” she encourages, her voice brimming with optimism. “Believe in yourself, leap out of that comfort zone, and watch yourself soar.” In Barita, who believed in her from the start, Suddanya sees not just a financial supporter, but a beacon of hope. “My success is their legacy,” she declares, ready to carry the torch of education forward for her mother, Barita, and the countless young minds waiting to be inspired. Suddanya Martin: A Rising Star in Early Childhood Education Suddanya Martin, Barita Foundation scholarship recipient. CONTRIBUTED BARITA FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2024
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUzNTI=