NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2024 6 AS PART of our 20th anniversary celebrations in 2021, the Supreme Ventures Foundation’s (SVF) focused its resources on developing transformational legacy projects in the areas of education with a focus on children in state care. Working closely with our long-time partners the Child Protection and Family Services Agency, the SV Foundation awarded 20 university and college students who are transitioning from state care with financial aid that covered all expenses related to tuition, boarding, and other educational costs throughout their tertiary level academic programmes at a cost of approximately $100 million over four years. “Since my early days, the dream of attending university has been a constant beacon of hope, yet the path to realising this dream seem shrouded in uncertainty, particularly when it came to funding. Graduating high school with only two CXC subjects, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of where the financial means to support a four-year university journey would come from. After high school, I eagerly enroled in the “HEART programme” at Knox Community College, immersing myself in an electrical installation course at the NCTVET level while also tackling additional CXC subject. However, despite my determination, moments of doubt and self-criticism crept in. Witnessing many of my peers seamlessly transitioning from high school to university stirred feelings of inadequacy within me. The fear of falling behind, of being left behind, consumed my thoughts. I remember countless nights spent overthinking, questioning my worth and potential against the backdrop of my friends’ successes. During these tumultuous times, my main focus remained unwavering – to pursue a university education. However, the looming question of funding cast a shadow of doubt over my aspirations. I found solace in prayer, seeking guidance and support through various channels, including joining church Google Meets in search of clarity. It was during this period of introspection and fervent prayers that the Supreme Venture Scholarship emerged as a beacon of hope. In 2020, before even receiving my CXC results, the opportunity presented itself. The mere possibility of this scholarship ignited a renewed sense of faith within me. When the results finally arrived, affirming my success, I knew that this was the divine intervention I had been hoping for. With the support of the Supreme Ventures Scholarship, I embarked on my journey at the Caribbean Maritime University in 2021. The impact of this scholarship has been nothing short of life changing. Not only did it alleviate the financial burden by covering my full four-year accommodation, but it also provided invaluable monthly stipends. Beyond the financial support, the scholarship programme extended its care to our well-being, regularly checking in on our academic progress and mental health. This holistic approach to support has been a source of immense comfort and motivation throughout my university years. Knowing that there were people genuinely invested in my success, both academically and emotionally, has been a profound blessing. The monthly stipends eased the stress of financial worries allowing me to fully immerse myself in my studies and person growth. As I approach the completion of my university in 2024, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude. The Supreme Ventures Foundation Scholarship has not only opened doors to education but has also provided a sense of community and support that I cherish deeply. To the SVF team behind this scholarship, I extend my heartfelt thanks. Your belief in me during moments of doubt has been a guiding light, propelling me towards my goals. I stand on the brink of graduation, empowered and grateful for the opportunities afforded to me. Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for everything you have done to support me and my fellow recipients. Your generosity has truly changed lives. SUPREME VENTURES, through its Supreme Ventures Foundation, in 2021 offered 20 full-ride scholarships at a cost of approximately $100 million over four years to 29 former wards of state. The students who were selected with the assistance of the Child Protection and Family Services Agency, which has direct oversight for children in State care, received funds towards their tuition, boarding, subsistence stipend and miscellaneous expenses to pursue studies in actuarial science, architecture, law, economics, civil engineering, dentistry and education, to name a few. “I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude for being the recipient of not only this scholarship but your continued support throughout this journey. This generous endowment has been a transformative blessing in my academic journey, alleviating the financial burdens commonly associated with tertiary education and allowing me to focus on my studies with a clear mind. Thanks to your support, I no longer need to worry about tuition fees or rent. This financial relief has enabled me to immerse myself fully in my academic pursuits without the distractions of part-time work or financial concerns. Consequently, my passion for learning has thrived, and I have been able to engage deeply in my studies and contribute meaningfully to academic discussions. Additionally, I am grateful for the driving lessons, the pep-up session, and the encouragement offered whenever I meet with the team. These thoughtful initiatives have equipped me with practical life skills that enhance my employability and personal independence. Your generosity has empowered me to strive for excellence without reservation. I am deeply grateful for the faith you have placed in me, and I am committed to honouring this trust by achieving academic and professional success. Once again, thank you for this blessing. Your support has made a significant difference in my life, and I look forward to contributing positively to the community in return.” SUPREME VENTURES FOUNDATION Elisa Whyte – University of the West Indies SVF 20th anniversary scholarship recipient Elisa Whyte (right), Supreme Ventures Foundation 20th anniversary scholarship recipient, poses for a photo op at a Pep-up session with SVF Director Heather Goldson and Warren Thompson, director, Children & Family Programme at the CPFSA. CONTRIBUTED Supreme Ventures Foundation Scholarships programme making a powerful impact every day Kimani Howard: Caribbean Maritime University, SVF 20th anniversary scholarship recipent Kimani Howard, Caribbean Maritime University student and Supreme Ventures Foundation 20th Anniversary Scholarship Recipent. CONTRIBUTED SCHOLARSHIPS TO GO FEATURE | THE GLEANER | THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2024
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