2006 Birthright Ambassadors Testimonials
Melissa Hew
 Melissa Hew was born in Miami, Florida to Chinese-Jamaican parents. She is currently a sophomore at the Florida International University and as a result of her ethnic background she is very involved in both the Caribbean Students Association and the Chinese Cultural Association. Melissa is pursuing a degree in Marketing and Management.
Being a Grace Kennedy Birthright Intern was one of the most amazing and gratifying experiences I have ever had the privilege of partaking in. The twofold dynamic- professional and cultural, of the Birthright Programme allow for such growth that everyday I had to remind myself that this [the Birthright experience] was really happening and I was even getting 'paid' by GraceKennedy. For the professional aspect of my internship I was able to intern in the Marketing Department at Hi-Lo Food Stores. I was able to gain hands on experience in my field through projects such as the Grande Opening of our Port Maria store and being a part of the "Shop, Scratch-n-Win" promotion from its inception until it was pushed out into stores nationwide. Through GraceKennedy, we, the interns, were able to meet such important figureheads in Jamaican society as the Governor General, Minister of Foreign Affairs, CEO of GraceKennedy Douglas Orane, and were able to celebrate Independence Day at Kings House.
The programme had a real impact on me personally through family and culture. I was finally able to connect with my heritage through the Birthright experience. Growing up as the first generation of my family born outside of Jamaica I always felt like something was missing.that something was living the Jamaican culture first hand, not just through my family's memories and values in my upbringing. Family was also a big factor in my time in Jamaica. I was able to really build a relationship with some family members who live in Jamaica and previously had only been passing figures in my life.
One of the most significant benefits from the GraceKennedy Birthright Programme was the formation of life-lasting friendships between the interns. Hanging out after work, exploring the different parishes of Jamaica, meeting the celebrities, and just connecting with our heritage made us fast friends. We are still in contact at least weekly and already are planning our next adventure. The GraceKennedy Birthright Programme is really a one of a kind life altering experience. Completing this programme and becoming a Grace Kennedy Birthright Ambassador is one of my proudest achievements.
Rebecca Smith
 Originally from Illinois, Rebecca Smith has just begun her third year at Harvard University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Social Anthropology with a Citation in Spanish. Rebecca is a member of the University's Varsity Soccer Team and is also the Secretary of the Harvard Caribbean Club.
The GraceKennedy Birthright Program was one of the best experiences of
my life. GraceKennedy provides a unique opportunity in that they combine both a cultural and professional Jamaican living experience. As a result of this I was able to see some of the many sides of Jamaica.
Both of my parents are from Jamaica but my brother and sisters and I were raised in the United States. Because of this I have always felt slightly disconnected from my Jamaican roots. The Jamaican Birthright Program provided me with an opportunity to go back to Jamaica and see the people and places that my parents speak so fondly of. I was able to meet family members that I had never met before and see the house my father grew up in.
Living with the other interns was a significant experience in that we were able to see that even though we were all born in different places, we still shared a common Jamaican bond. Our parents had raised us as Jamaicans.
The GraceKennedy Birthright Program was a fulfilling experience as I finally was able to fully understand my Jamaican roots. I will always remember the wonderful memories and friendships I made in Jamaica and I look forward to returning home soon.
HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
- Candidates must complete an application form
- Along with the application form, candidate will be required to include 4 passport sized photographs, his/her official transcript, and a one-page essay on why he/she would make the ideal candidate for this programme.
- Candidate must be pursuing either an undergraduate or graduate degree
- Candidate must have a Grade Point Average of 3.0 or above (i.e. a 'B' average or higher)
- Candidate must be of Jamaican parentage/grand parentage
- Candidate must be between the ages of 18 to 30 years old
HOW DO INTERESTED STUDENTS ACCESS THE APPLICATION FORM?
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