PRIDE and gratitude were the dominant emotions at the Jamaica Co-operative Credit Union League (JCCUL) Tertiary Scholarships and PEP bursaries handover last Friday as parents and awardees celebrated their success.

Shanique Mckoo, mother of recipient Icashea Bryan — who is now attending Immaculate Conception High School — described the moment as surreal.

McKoo told the Jamaica Observer that her daughter was not only the top student in her grade six class, but she was also the top student overall at her previous school, and now she has been recognised as the top performer for the credit union bursaries.

“I never expected that she would have topped here as well but I’m really grateful,” said McKoo.

The proud mother said she supported her daughter the best way she could as she took over some of her chores, assisted her with homework and projects, and allowed her time to study on weekends.

According to McKoo, the JCCUL scholarship is not just helpful for her financially, but a testament to her daughter’s hard work.

“It’s very good for me having the League here to help support her so we can now look to our future. This is very vital for her future because now she’s just one step closer to her ultimate dream of becoming a lawyer. So I’m just looking forward to all the great things she will do. She worked so hard, I’m glad she keeps being reminded of it,” added Mckoo.

Among the recipients smiling brightest was Aijahlon King-Williams, who told the Observer that going into PEP he had one goal in mind — earning a spot at his first choice school — which he achieved.

Aijahlon said he was overjoyed when he found out he was placed at St Jago High School.

“I was happy when I got the results. I was so excited to go to my dream school,” said Aijahlon.

“I believe I was born naturally smart. I did a little studying before, but I think my photographic memory helped me the most,” added Aijahlon whose father, Garian Williams, was equally proud.

According to Williams, he always knew his son was capable of great things and during the PEP preparation process he ensured that his son remained focused by limiting his screen time, helping him with assignments, and ensuring that he reviewed his notes, before allowing him his free time to relax and play.

Williams said he was thankful for the support granted by the credit union movement as this helped in covering the back-t0-school expenses especially purchasing text books and other items.

Foluke Simpson, now attending Wolmer’s Boys’ School, and his father Horace Simpson shared a similar sense of pride.

“I feel very proud of myself and all the hard work that I put in,” said Foluke as he argued that the JCCUL scholarship is a validation of his discipline and his effort.

Foluke was extremely grateful for his parents, who he said helped him with any challenge he faced.

“I worked really hard to get into that school. It was my dream. I also want to thank my father, as well as my mother for helping me with the work and always pushing me to try and do better at what I do,” said Foluke.

In the meantime Foluke’s father wore a big smile as he told the Observer that his son’s achievement was no surprise, given his determination.

“I’m definitely proud because I think he was very focused, and it’s a well-deserved opportunity for him,” said Simpson as he expressed the hope that Foluke will, “maintain his focus and keep working hard”.

Jessica Jones, recipient of the 2025 JCCUL Glenn Francis Scholarship shares a proud moment with her mother Shanique Mckoo at the JCCUL award ceremony on Friday. Joseph Wellington