By Gerald V. Paul

Fifty-three of community’s youngest and brightest minds were awardees of $60,000 in scholarships last Saturday at the 11^th Annual Jamaican Canadian Scholarship Awards at the Jamaican Canadian Centre on Arrow Road.

“In addition to outstanding academic achievements, they demonstrated leadership qualities and their commitment to community developments through volunteering, community participation and very active involvement in sporting activities,” Dr. Sylvanus Thompson, Chair Scholarship Awards Committee told The Camera.

As for an enthused Jessica Ketwaroo-Green, the Dr. Mary Anne Chambers Scholarship recipient, “I’m so appreciative for this scholarship as I pursue the Politics and Governance Programme at Ryerson University and I intend to complete a double major in non-profit and voluntary sector management.”

Dr. Chambers concurs that Jessica is an exceptional leader in training who had excelled academically and has come to realize that she has, within her, the ability to profoundly impact others who struggle with self esteem, self worth and identity concerns, although she was struggling to overcome her personal challenges.

Audrey Campbell, President of the JCA, noted the JCA places a high value on education. The JCA Scholarship Programme was established to provide financial assistance to students from the Caribbean/African communities, who are pursuing post-secondary studies in Ontario Universities and Colleges.

“This is in keeping with the Association’s mandate of community outreach and responding to the educational needs of the community,” said Campbell.