Claudia Mendez, 21-year old TikTok educator, knows first-hand the transformative power of NCB Foundation’s Grant a Wish programme. When her wish was granted in 2022, she was able to fund studying for her medical degree in Cuba.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity NCB Foundation’s Grant a Wish programme gave me,” said Mendez.

“I remember when I was little, I had to stay in the hospital, and I slept next to a little girl who was badly burnt on her face. I think about that little girl everyday as I pursue my medical degree in dermatology. I promised to help her one day, and I am on the path to doing that, thanks to their help,” she continued.

NCB Foundation is set to spread holiday cheer by granting J$15 million in life-changing wishes across Jamaica through its Grant a Wish initiative.

Mendez encourages the public to nominate individuals and groups that are a deserving of wishes, sharing that, “…you never know whose life you can change.”

Her advice to nominees: “Spread the word about your nomination, don’t take it for granted. Even if you don’t win, the experience and connections you make will stay with you forever. Grant a Wish has given me more than I could have ever imagined, and I know it can do the same for you. Keep believing in your dreams, stay determined, and remember that the journey is just as important as the destination.”

Sheree Martin, NCB Foundation’s CEO also noted, “Every wish we grant shines a light into someone’s life, sparking hope and inspiring others to do the same. Yes, we’re bringing joy for the holiday season, but we’re also building a brighter, better Jamaica, one act of kindness at a time.”

This year’s programme grants wishes from five categories: Registered Charities, Community Heroes, Persons with Disabilities, Medical Assistance, and an Open category to support individuals and causes that may not fall within the other categories but still merit recognition.

“We’re spreading the love in a bigger way this year. For the first time ever, fourth and fifth place nominees’ wishes will be granted. We want to make sure as many deserving individuals and groups receive vital assistance,” said Martin. “By supporting more nominees, we’re sending a powerful message of encouragement, helping to uplift those who continue to inspire others.”

Winning nominees in each category will be awarded J$500,000 for first place, J$350,000 for second place, J$200,000 for third, and J$100,000 each for fourth and fifth places.

Dr Kimiela “Candy” Isaacs, a visually impaired multi-award-winning singer-songwriter from St Thomas, has been a passionate Grant a Wish advocate. Last year, Issacs used her music to inspire and raise awareness about the initiative.

“Being part of Grant a Wish was a dream come true,” said Isaacs. “I always heard about N.C.B. Foundation’s Grant a Wish programme in the media and loved it. It was such an honour that they believed in my talent and gave me a platform to reach more people. That experience reminded me of the importance of granting wishes—it’s about how it can transform your life and inspire others.”

Since her participation, Isaacs has continued to build her music career, performing at major events. She has also become an advocate for the visually impaired, using her platform to encourage inclusivity and showcase the limitless potential of those with disabilities.

“I am forever grateful to Grant a Wish for opening doors I didn’t even know existed,” Issacs added. “This programme gives people like me the courage to dream bigger and the support to make those dreams a reality.”

Social media influencers Cindy ‘Book of Cinz’ Allman, Simon ‘Tomo’ Tomlinson, Sara Jade Chow and others are leading the call this year and spreading the word about Grant a Wish 2024.

Jamaicans everywhere are encouraged to participate by nominating and voting for individuals or registered organisations in Jamaica who have shown incredible passion and grit in the face of setbacks. Nominations can be submitted through grantawish.jncb.com. The nomination and voting period runs from November 15 to December 6, 2024.