2024 Sagicor Foundation scholar Shenielle Gayle cops inaugural Innovation Award

At just 21 years old, Shenielle Gayle is breaking new ground in the field of information technology (IT). Despite losing her sight just five years ago, her resilience has propelled her to the forefront of innovation. A student at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean, Gayle was recently honoured with the Chairman’s Innovation Award at the 2024 Sagicor Foundation Scholarship ceremony. This inaugural award, presented by Sagicor Foundation Chairman Christopher Zacca, recognises individuals who have used technology to make a significant impact in their communities.

Growing up in Portmore, Gayle fondly recalls her childhood in a single-parent household. She attended Portmore Gospel Assembly Preparatory School and attributes much of her early development to her mother, Yvonne Thomas, whom she considers her role model. “My mother was always there, guiding me and teaching me responsibility, independence, and street smarts,” Gayle remembers. Her love for IT was heavily influenced by her mother’s background in the field. “My mother’s work in IT exposed me to technology at a young age, allowing me to explore and develop a deep interest in the field,” she explained.

Life has not been without challenges for Gayle. Along with financial difficulties, she experienced the devastating loss of her sight at 16 due to a non-cancerous tumour pressing against her optic nerve near the pituitary gland.

Reflecting on that time, she shared, “It was terrifying at first because I didn’t know what was causing it. My sight was dwindling, and I had to stand so close to the classroom board just to see and take notes. At one point, I could barely stand on both legs. The doctors couldn’t tell me what was happening, and when I finally learned I needed brain surgery, it was even more frightening. What allowed the fear to fade was that I started seriously going to church,” she shared.

She continued, “I felt more at peace knowing I could put everything in God’s hands, trusting that nothing bad would happen. Surprisingly, I found myself at peace – no fear, no tears, no depression. I was simply waiting for God’s direction, and when He showed me the way, I followed. That’s been my journey – terrifying at first, but completely transformed once I found my faith in God.”

Gayle’s passion for innovation has been crucial in helping her navigate the challenges of losing her sight. She began by finding ways to help herself, which ultimately enabled her to help others.

“Overcoming this involved finding new ways to do what I was doing before I lost my vision. I discovered various technologies, like screen readers and AI apps on my phone that can describe images and labels to me. I can point my camera at something, and it will tell me what’s in front of me. There have been financial hurdles, but I’ve always tried my best to help myself through tutoring and seeking funding where necessary. I never let financial constraints stop me from achieving my goals.

Now a dedicated advocate for all Jamaicans, especially those with disabilities, Gayle volunteers at the Jamaica Society for the Blind, teaching others how to use computers with screen readers. She also runs a YouTube channel, Thee Quinn, where she offers tutorials and introduces new apps, including AI tools that assist visually impaired users. Additionally, Gayle developed a free transcription app for the blind, deaf, and those with multiple disabilities.

Helping others has always been a strong passion for Gayle. She reflects, “Even as a child, I had an urge to help. It brings me joy when someone thanks me for making a difference in their life. For me, it’s more rewarding than money – knowing I’ve helped someone become independent and opened new doors for them is what drives me.”

Gayle was visibly elated and overcome with joy when her name was announced as the winner of the Chairman’s Innovation Award. In addition to being a 2024 Sagicor Scholarship recipient, which will fund her final-year tuition, Gayle received an additional cash prize of $500,000 as part of the award.

She is grateful for the recognition from the Sagicor Group Foundation and hopes to inspire others to find their true strength within. She advises, “Go for it. The sky is the limit. No matter how small you feel or how others see you, with love for people, determination, and a positive mindset, you can achieve greatness. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise – you are more than capable.”

The Sagicor Foundation awarded over $8 million in new scholarships to 20 tertiary students and 27 secondary students across Jamaica at its annual Scholarship Awards ceremony.

goodheart@gleanerjm.com