Spark it up Education grant brings Christmas cheer

National Baking Company recently donated J$500,000 to the Spark It Up Education Grant.

Dan-Neil Dunkelly is the second and most recent beneficiary of the education grant. The final-year student of Caribbean Maritime University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in customs processes, freight forwarding, and immigration, received J$250,000.

Dunkley said: “Sparks has made an impact on my life that is unexplainable, and I truly appreciate being awarded this grant. I feel really blessed going into the Christmas.” When asked what advice she had for university students who may be experiencing challenges financing their education, she stated: “Don’t give up. Do your very best and apply for scholarships.

The Spark It Up Education Grant was conceptualised by Tricia Spence, aka Zj Sparks, in March 2019. Spence says she has a passion for helping others to reach their full potential and is keen on supporting students who are faced with challenges funding their education.

“While struggling to finance my education when I was younger, I had vowed to set up a foundation in the future to assist persons who are facing similar difficulties as I did. I am happy that National came on board to support the foundation to assist individuals with achieving their dreams,” Sparks said.

The first Spark It Up Education grant was awarded in April 2019.

Brand manager of National Bakery Kari Steele said: “We are aware of the challenges that are experienced by students to complete higher education, and alleviating these financial burdens remains a priority for National. We are very pleased to contribute to the Spark It Up Education Grant to assist students such as Dan-Neil.”

The handover was made on Friday, December 13, at National Bakery’s head office on Half-Way Tree Road.