MANCHESTER, Jamaica — It was a full-circle moment at the Somerset Primary School in Mandeville this week, as former student and local entrepreneur Gaswayne Bailey returned to his alma mater bearing a heartfelt gift of $200,000.

Bailey, the owner of Bare Cups Promotions, which stages the recurring “Cups Up” party event, handed over the donation on Wednesday, bringing joy and inspiration to students and staff alike.

Speaking on the donation, the 32-year-old shared that he was elated to be able to give back to his community.

“I believe that giving back is not just about donating time or resources; it’s about building connections, fostering relationships and creating a sense of belonging. I feel very elated knowing that I am at a point in my life where I could actually contribute to the institution that helped nurture me and the wider community,” Bailey said.

He continued, “When we invest in our community, we’re not only helping those in need, but we’re also enriching our own lives. The students are happy, the teachers are happy, and that’s all that matters. Whatever this money is put towards, I know it will be beneficial to present and future students and teachers who walk this institution.”

Students of Somerset Primary School in Manchester are all smiles as they receive a cheque of $200,000 from a former student on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

For her part, Acting Principal Elarine Butler expressed deep gratitude for the support, which she described as a testament to Bailey’s “success and generosity, but also a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between our alumni and the institution”.

“It means a great deal to see our former students giving back in such a meaningful way,” she shared.

Acting Principal of Somerset Primary and Infant School, Elarine Butler (right) and other members of staff receive a cheque of $200,000 from a former student of the school on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

Butler said the donation will go towards designing educational murals and assisting with installing a school gate.

For Bailey, this is just the beginning. According to the events promoter, he is committed to further enhancing his community, including getting others on board and expanding the ways in which he can give back.

“The plan is to continue doing what we can and also getting other people on board. Our plans include organising regular volunteer days where community members can come together and put in some work for the community,” Bailey said.

“Walking through the school, I realised that a lot of work has been done to get the institution where it is today. However, a lot more needs to be done, so more donations and putting on some events for charity are surely in the making,” he added.

The next staging of Cups Up is July 27, 2025.