One of the causes I am most passionate about is youth development. That is why I am always ready for any opportunity that allows me to inspire and connect with Jamaica’s youth and help them to achieve their dreams.

Luckily for me, I had two such opportunities recently – hosting both the National Baking Company’s Annual Education Assistance Ceremony and the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) Education Fund Scholarship Awards.

The National Baking Company’s Educational Assistance Programme provides funding to assist in the educational costs for the children of those employed to their organization. The theme of their event was “Excellence is Attainable. Level Up,” and it was truly heartwarming to see the students take that message to heart. After challenging them to be bold and fearless, one student took the challenge head on and tackled her fear of speaking in front of an audience on the spot.

The BGLC Education Fund, on the other hand, offers scholarship for tertiary education. Since it’s inception in 2014, it has made contributions exceeding $50 million towards education, and in the academic year 2019-2020, it had put forward $12.5 million to assist 250 students attending 30 tertiary institutions across the island.

It’s amazing to see two local companies playing their part in developing the upcoming generations, and I am honoured to be a part of the movement.

Here’s a look at some of the photos from both events.