SUPREME Ventures Foundation (SVF) has staged another successful version of its annual ‘Pep up Session’ for its 20th anniversary scholarship recipients, most of whom are approaching graduation in 2025.

As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations in 2021, the Supreme Ventures Foundation awarded 20 university and college students who are transitioning from State care with financial aid that covered all expenses related to tuition, boarding, and other educational costs throughout its tertiary level academic programmes.

The latest full day session dubbed ‘Elevate: Empowered for Excellence’, held recently, was designed to provide a blend of motivational activities, skill-building workshops and practical resources to prepare the students for life after university. This is the third Pep up Session being staged for that scholarship cohort.

“It’s not just the scholarship but also these Pep up Sessions that have kept me motivated,” said Joshua Gazader, one of the scholarship recipients.

“It’s rare to find a scholarship that does so much more than fund your education. I would recommend the Supreme Ventures Foundation scholarships to anyone. It has been a blessing and a lifeline throughout these four years, with the team always checking in and keeping us in mind,” added Gazader.

The session opened with a journey board — an interactive welcome exercise encouraging students to visualise their career aspirations.

Attendees also had the chance to capture professional head shots with Adrian Creary of Studio Craft, a gesture that not only celebrates their academic journey but also prepares them for professional networking.

Warren Thompson, director of children and family programmes at Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA), underscored the critical impact of these sessions on young people who have faced adversity.

“This engagement means a lot for young people who have been in State care and have encountered challenging experiences,” said Thompson.

“I only wish opportunities like this existed when I was their age. Branding, networking, managing finances, and navigating social media are essential skills for today’s world. The sessions equip them not just for their careers, but to build a life,” added Thompson.

He argued that SVF’s holistic approach to supporting scholarship recipients sets an exemplary standard.

“This is more than a scholarship; it’s a life programme. Each session offers new perspectives and skills. We’re deeply appreciative of Supreme Ventures Foundation for creating such an impactful experience for our young people. It’s invaluable and often something people would pay a lot for,” said Thompson.

“I hope SVF continues this partnership to support more young people pursuing tertiary education. Their commitment to real-world readiness is one of the most meaningful investments a scholarship programme can make,” added Thompson.

Throughout the day, SVF scholars participated in several workshops and presentations including a
LinkedIn set-up workshop led by Kristopherson Nunez (also known as TheCareerDoc), which offered invaluable guidance on personal branding.

According to Monae Williams, another scholarship recipient, these sessions have kept her motivated through the challenges of university life.

“The facilitators’ support throughout this journey has been incredible,” said Williams. “Sometimes it gets stressful, but these sessions remind us of our goals. I am truly grateful for this scholarship and everything it’s opened up for me,” added Williams.

SVL staff members join recipients of the Supreme Ventures Foundation 20th anniversary scholarship, celebrating an inspiring day of mentorship, empowerment, and community at the recent Pep up Session.