GROWING up in the rural community of York Town, Clarendon, 18-year-old Rihanna Barrett learned early that determination could take a person further than circumstance.

Raised by her mother, a hard-working farmer, Barrett watched first-hand the sacrifices that came with providing opportunities for a child. Those experiences instilled values that continue to guide her today — perseverance, discipline and an unwavering faith in God.

Now preparing to enter her second year at The University of the West Indies (The UWI), Mona, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance, Barrett is one step closer to achieving a dream that once seemed distant. As a recipient of the JWN Foundation Scholarship she shared that the award has lifted a significant burden from her family while encouraging her to keep striving for excellence.

“I felt honoured, grateful and excited. It was reassuring to know that my hard work had been recognised,” she said after learning she had been selected. “The scholarship eased some of the financial challenges we faced, and it motivated me to continue working hard because I know others believe in my potential.”

Looking back on her childhood Barrett credits her upbringing with shaping both her ambitions and her outlook on life.

“I am from York Town, Clarendon, where I was raised by my mother in a community that taught me the value of perseverance and hard work. Although resources were sometimes limited I was surrounded by people who believed in supporting one another,” she said.

Watching her mother’s resilience inspired Barrett to dream beyond her circumstances. “My mother’s sacrifices as a single parent and farmer, along with my faith in God, motivated me to become the first person in my immediate family to attend university,” she said.

That milestone remains one of the achievements she treasures most. “It means so much because it represents the sacrifices my family made and the opportunities they wanted me to have,” she said.

Barrett’s academic journey has been marked by consistency, leadership, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. “My journey has been one of growth, discipline and determination. I remained committed to my studies while actively participating in leadership and extra-curricular activities, which helped me build confidence, responsibility and a passion for serving others,” she said.

At Central High School she quickly established herself as both an outstanding student and an influential leader. She was the founder of the school’s Business Club and served as its president while also leading the United Nations Club, ICT Club, and Word Masters Club. She was vice-president of the Mental Health Club and deputy head girl, balancing those responsibilities with a strong academic record.

Her commitment earned her four Principal’s Honour Roll awards and an International Diplomacy Award through her participation in the Model United Nations programme.

“I was fortunate to be surrounded by goal-oriented individuals and teachers who believed in me. Their support motivated me to work hard, stay focused, and strive for excellence in everything I did,” she said.

Despite her achievements, the road to university was not without obstacles. “My greatest challenge was overcoming financial difficulties while pursuing my education. As the daughter of a single mother who is a farmer, I understood the sacrifices required for me to attend university,” she said.

Rather than allowing those challenges to discourage her, she focused on finding solutions. “I trusted God, applied for scholarships like the JWN Foundation Scholarship, and embraced every opportunity available to me,” she said.

Today, Barrett plans to expand her studies by completing a double major in banking and finance and economics. “My programme focuses on banking operations, financial management, investments, accounting and economics. I want to broaden my knowledge and better prepare myself for my future career,” she said.

Her interest in finance developed from a desire to understand how financial decisions influence people’s lives and the wider economy. “I enjoy understanding how financial decisions affect individuals, businesses and the economy. I believe this field will allow me to contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s development while helping others improve their financial well-being,” she said.

Among the areas that interest her most are financial literacy, entrepreneurship and economic development. “I want to help individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions while creating opportunities that contribute to Jamaica’s economic growth,” she said.

Beyond the classroom, Barrett is already gaining valuable professional experience. She is completing an internship as an accounting clerk at Con-Acctax Solution Services, where she is strengthening the practical skills developed through her university studies.

She also continues to serve her community through clean-up initiatives, Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, and her involvement with the university’s United Nations Club. “I believe leadership is about using your knowledge and abilities to make a positive difference wherever you are,” she said.

Applying for the JWN Foundation Scholarship was a natural step for someone determined to continue her education, despite financial challenges. “I wanted to ease the financial burden on my family while continuing my education,” she said.

She first heard about the scholarship through a previous recipient who spoke about the impact it had made on her educational journey. “It has been life-changing. It has eased the financial burden on my family; allowed me to focus more on my studies, internship, leadership activities and personal development; and motivated me to continue working hard,” Barrett said.

Looking ahead, Barrett hopes to build a successful career in Jamaica’s financial sector while pursuing entrepreneurship. She envisions creating businesses that not only generate employment but also promote financial literacy and contribute to national development.

“My goal is to create businesses that contribute to economic growth, empower others, and leave a legacy for future generations,” she said.