FOR many, pursuing a degree is a challenging feat, and for Kanya Jackson-Taylor it has been doubly so as she has navigated grief and loss with resilience and determination to cop the 2024 Kenneth Chung Memorial MSc Accounting Scholarship. A young widow, single mother, small business owner, and full-time student, Jackson-Taylor has proven that with faith, perseverance, and a clear vision, it is possible to overcome life’s challenges and achieve one’s goals.

Being named the recipient of the 2024 Kenneth Chung Memorial accounting scholarship — the prestigious award presented annually by the Chung family in partnership with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica (ICAJ) — is a testament to Jackson-Taylor’s hard work and dedication, even in the face of ongoing loss.

Born and raised in Westmoreland, Jackson-Taylor’s early years were shaped by a modest background. From a young age she understood the importance of self-reliance and education.

“Growing up in a household where finances were always a concern, I knew that if I wanted to change my circumstances it was going to be up to me. I took on a full-time job while pursuing my first degree, to ensure I could afford tuition and support myself,” she recalled.

Her accounting journey began when she spent five years in Kingston, completing her first degree in accounting. During this time she balanced the demands of studying with a full-time job, knowing that her success would provide a better future for her family. After finishing her degree she returned to Westmoreland to pursue a postgraduate Diploma in Education and Training, a qualification she pursued with the hope of securing a stable career.

However, Jackson-Taylor’s life took a dramatic turn in 2021 when her husband passed away. Faced with the challenge of raising her three children as a single mother, she was determined to provide them with a better life. The decision to move to Kingston was a pivotal moment.

“After the loss, my sister suggested that I move back to Kingston to explore better opportunities. It wasn’t a hard decision to make, but it was daunting — I had to figure out how to make it work for my children and myself,” Jackson-Taylor said.

Life, as it often does, threw unexpected challenges in her path. Within weeks of relocating, her car was stolen, and not long after, their house was broken into, leaving them temporarily homeless.

“It was a lot to handle all at once but in those moments I reminded myself that God doesn’t give us more than we can bear. We had each other, and we had faith. That was enough to get us through,” she reflected.

Despite these setbacks Jackson-Taylor remained undeterred. She found a safe place for her family to stay and ensured that her children were enrolled in schools nearby.

“It was a difficult time but, through it all, I trusted that everything would eventually work out. Life has a way of teaching you strength in ways you never expected,” she shared.

In the face of these challenges she remained resolute in her decision to stay in Kingston to pursue her master’s in accounting, knowing it was the opportunity to fulfil a long-held dream.

In 2023, as life presented another hurdle, Jackson-Taylor received an unexpected opportunity.

“A particular incident in June reminded me just how much I needed to complete my education. Without hesitation, I submitted my application to the MSc programme at the Mona School of Business and Management (MSBM) and was accepted just weeks before the start of the term. I knew that this was the opportunity I had been waiting for,” she said, recalling the pivotal moment that reignited her academic aspirations.

For Jackson-Taylor, the pursuit of education is about more than just personal achievement. It’s about setting an example for her children and showing them that no dream is too big.

“My children are my biggest motivation and cheerleaders. They keep me grounded and focused,” she said with a smile. “They inspire me to push harder, to be better, and to never give up.”

This unwavering dedication to her family and education was recently recognised when Jackson-Taylor was selected as the recipient of the 2024 scholarship. Presented annually by the Chung family in partnership with ICAJ, the award is given to a second-year student of the MSc in Accounting programme at MSBM at The University of the West Indies, who has demonstrated financial need. The scholarship is a significant recognition of Jackson-Taylor’s academic excellence and unwavering determination.

“I am extremely elated, grateful, and proud to be the recipient of this scholarship,” she shared. “This award means that a significant financial burden has been lifted. Now, I can focus on my studies without the constant worry about how I’ll pay for the remainder of the course. It’s a blessing, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity.”

Eric Scott, president of ICAJ, expressed his admiration for Jackson-Taylor’s determination and hard work.

“Kanya exemplifies the qualities we value in the accounting profession — dedication, resilience, and a commitment to excellence,” he said. “She is an incredibly deserving recipient of the Kenneth Chung Memorial accounting scholarship, and we are proud to support her journey.”

Meanwhile, at the handover ceremony Dennis Chung, representing the Chung family, shared some inspiring words for Jackson-Taylor, emphasising the values that underpin the accounting profession.

He began by acknowledging the significance of the moment, saying, “I want to say to you that you’re entering a very noble profession. It’s a profession that values ethics above all else. You can’t be a great accountant, no matter how knowledgeable, without a strong moral compass. This, perhaps, is the most important qualification of an accountant.”

Chung continued: “So, I want to congratulate you on this award. Think of it not just as a financial gesture, but as an opening of doors for you. This recognition affirms that you are someone deserving of it, someone who is stepping into a profession that holds great integrity and purpose.”

Dennis Chung, representing the Chung family, presents the scholarship cheque to a grateful Kanya Jackson-Taylor.