FOR many Jamaican families, the start of a new school year brings with it a mix of excitement and financial anxiety. This is especially true for those with students about to embark on their university journey.

However, for 15 deserving students majoring in technology the burden has been significantly eased, thanks to scholarships and grants from NCB Foundation.

Among the bright minds receiving support is Breanna Ellis, a computer science student at The University of West Indies from St James. For Breanna, the financial assistance is more than a scholarship, “it’s a lifeline for her family”.

“My little brother has autism, so his therapy takes up a lot of my mother’s finances. Being in that environment takes a toll on her, as she can’t really manage to take care of me and him as well,” Breanna said in an interview with the Jamaica Observer at the NCB Foundation Scholarship and Grant Award Ceremony held at AC Hotel Kingston last week.

The scholarship, she explained, is a stepping stone not just for her, but for her entire family.

“My mother is the first of our family to go to university. That’s a legacy that I want to continue, not only for me but for my future children and their children as well,” she said.

Breanna’s path to receiving financial assistance has not been without its challenges. She had applied for numerous scholarships without success — until her application to the NCB Foundation.

“I was very shocked; I didn’t expect it. I applied to so many but, to no avail, and I was losing hope,” she disclosed.

Her joy and relief were palpable as she expressed gratitude for the support from the foundation.

She said the application process was straightforward, requiring only basic personal information, a detailed essay, and disclosing her chosen institution.

“This gives me greater motivation to do well in school. I have to try harder to maintain this scholarship,” she told the Observer, recognising the responsibility that comes with the opportunity.

Breanna also said the scholarship is a powerful validation of her hard work.

“This scholarship symbolises that I can actually achieve great things. Even though it was unexpected, I feel compelled to do more because this is proof that I can do something great and that my efforts did not go unseen,” she said.

The young woman explained that she chose to study computer science because it allows her to be creative while setting her up for financial stability in the future. Already, her ambition has led her to tackle a real world problem close to her heart: Her brother’s reading ability.

“I want to be a software developer, solve real world problems,” she said. “I’m in the process of developing a flash card app that would allow you to record your own voice and upload your own pictures to help with a child’s reading ability. I’m having some issues with it but, hopefully, one day I could give back to my community.”

Breanna’s story is testament to the power of perseverance and the life-changing impact of a single opportunity. She is now on a clear path to achieving her dreams, not just for herself, but for her family and community.

NCB Foundation this year invested $35.8 million in scholarships and grants, benefiting 193 students across Jamaica including the 15 special awardees.

Since its inception 17 years ago the organisation has awarded more than $1 billion in educational support, impacting more than 2,800 students islandwide.