JAMAL Denton understands urban planning is more than roads and buildings, it’s about reimagining how cities grow so that development reaches those that need it most. The urban and regional planning student at the University of Technology (UTech) Jamaica is especially drawn to the role tourism plays in shaping communities. His aim is not to simply build up, but to build with people and place in mind.

“I’ve always been drawn to how the spaces around us shape the way we live, work, and connect,” the 21-year-old said. “Urban planning gives me the opportunity to help design and guide that process in a way that’s thoughtful and sustainable.”

But just as his vision was beginning to take shape, the former Wolmerian’s academic journey nearly came to a halt due to personal loss and financial hardship. His sister, who had been supporting his tuition, was unable to continue following the passing of her husband. This tragedy left the family emotionally and financially strained, forcing Denton to face the reality of covering tuition on his own. He described that period as “extremely uncertain”, with serious consideration given to pausing his studies altogether.

“Yes, the thought definitely crossed my mind,” he admitted. “With no stable financial support, continuing my education felt almost impossible. But I knew the value of what I was pursuing and held on to hope.”

That hope took form when his head of department, Dr Nadine Freeman-Prince, told him about the National Housing Trust (NHT) construction scholarship. It was an opportunity he had not considered before, but since he met the application requirements, he applied. And then he waited.

When the confirmation came, it was more than good news, it was a turning point. “It was a wave of relief and gratitude,” he said. “It felt like a door had been reopened, and I could finally focus on my goals without the financial burden weighing me down.”

Thanks to his determination, the encouragement of those around him, and the critical NHT scholarship, Denton is back on track to creating a future for himself and contributing to the kind of Jamaica he wants to help shape.

The scholarship has allowed Denton, who serves on the public relations committee of the Planning Students’ Society at UTech, to continue his studies uninterrupted and has given him space to grow personally and professionally, no longer preoccupied with tuition deadlines or uncertainty.

“My passion is tourism planning, which intersects directly with urban development and sustainability,” he said. “I want to help design spaces that enhance the visitor experience while benefiting local communities and preserving our environment.”

His focus on sustainability is not just about buzzwords, it is a value system he believes young professionals like himself are uniquely positioned to advance.

“We bring fresh perspectives and a sustainable mindset,” he said. “Young planners, in particular, can champion more inclusive and long-term development strategies that benefit everyone, not just now, but for generations to come.”

Launched in 2024 as part of strategic initiatives by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, the NHT construction scholarship aims to strengthen the national construction sector by investing in the next generation of professionals. It targets students enrolled in construction and related disciplines, such as civil engineering, urban and regional planning, and land surveying, by offering up to $1 million annually in tuition and financial support.

Through the NHT scholarship, recipients are also encouraged to participate in networking opportunities, award ceremonies, and knowledge-sharing sessions with peers and professionals. These platforms are designed to support not just academic goals, but personal and professional development.

As for other students who may find themselves on similarly uncertain ground, he has this message: “I’d tell them to go for it. Beyond the public recognition, this scholarship offers real, ongoing support. They don’t just help you once, they keep helping you move forward. If you’re passionate and prepared, it could change your life, just like it did for me.”

DENTON… it felt like a door had been reopened, and I could finally focus on my goals.