The GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF) has awarded over $27.4 million in scholarships to 78 university students from the University of the West Indies (UWI), University of Technology (UTech), Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts (EMC), and the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU). The awards ceremony took place on November 6, 2024 at the University of Technology, Jamaica.

Caroline Mahfood, CEO of the GraceKennedy Foundation, emphasized GKF’s commitment to shaping lives through education. “For many of our scholars, the desire to attend university is met with the challenge of limited financial resources. These scholarships provide the crucial pathway they need, changing the trajectory of their lives and opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.”

Sashanna Cunningham, GraceKennedy (GK) UTECH Merit Scholarship recipient and Ace With Grace Tutoring Service Coordinator at the GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF), poses with her awards at the 2024 GKF Scholars Awards Ceremony, which took place on November 6 at the University of Technology, Jamaica.

 

In her address, Gail Moss-Solomon, General Counsel & Chief Corporate Secretary of GraceKennedy Ltd, welcomed the scholars to the GraceKennedy family and shared how her upbringing instilled in her the importance of education and community. “Growing up, my parents emphasised the value of a solid education, which has shaped who I am today,” she said. “As you work towards your dreams, remember you’re not alone. Lean on your community and know that the GraceKennedy family stands behind you,” she added. Moss-Solomon also encouraged the students to carry forward the company’s core values of honesty, integrity, and trust in all their endeavours.

Gail Moss-Solomon (right), General Counsel & Chief Corporate Secretary, GraceKennedy Ltd (GKL), presents Demaria Walker (centre), GK Jamaica Scholarship 2024 winner, with her certificate. Looking on is Keresha Larmond (left), Acting Manager, Office of Student Financing, University of the West Indies, Mona. The presentation took place at the GK Foundation’s Scholars Awards Ceremony, which took place on November 6 at the University of Technology, Jamaica.

 

Dr Mark Lewis, a past Bruce Rickards Scholar and guest speaker at the ceremony, motivated the scholars by reflecting on his journey from medical school, to his current role in Jamaica’s public health system. “This scholarship was more than financial support, it was a vote of confidence that pushed me to aim higher,” he said. “To today’s scholars, know that each challenge is a step forward—embrace it and make your mark,” he added.

The Foundation has invested approximately $470 Million in scholarships to university students over the last 42 years, which has benefited hundreds of families. The application process opens from May 1 – June 30 each year. For further information visit https://gkfoundation.eformsolutions.com/.

Llamario Sinclair (left), GraceKennedy (GK) Bruce Rickards Scholarship 2024 winner, receives his certificate from Philip Alexander, Director, GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF) and son of the late Hon. Carlton Alexander, at the 2024 GKF Scholars Awards Ceremony. The presentation took place on November 6 at the University of Technology, Jamaica.