DEMAND for educational support through the JWN Foundation Scholarship Programme surged in 2026, with applications increasing by 23 per cent over last year to 374 submissions.

A release from the foundation said the strong response underscores the growing need for opportunities to access higher education and skills development, as the foundation awarded 211 scholarships valued at $21.8 million to students from communities in Clarendon, St Elizabeth, and off Spanish Town Road in St Andrew, alongside dependents of J Wray & Nephew Limited employees.

The scholarship programme, one of the foundation’s flagship education initiatives, extends beyond financial assistance to provide opportunities for personal and professional development, the release said.

Through workshops, engagement activities, and enrichment programmes the foundation continues to invest in developing confident, capable and community-minded young leaders who are equipped to achieve their full potential.

The 2026 cohort of recipients included 140 secondary scholars and 71 tertiary scholars. Among the tertiary recipients is Lauren Walfall, recipient of the prestigious Chairman’s Award — the foundation’s highest individual scholarship honour. The programme also awarded 11 specially named master blender scholars through scholarships valued at $450,000 each, and three Joy Spence STEM Scholarships, each receiving $400,000 to pursue studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With regular scholars receiving $200,000 each, these higher-tiered awards recognise exceptional students whose academic achievements, leadership potential, and chosen fields of study align with Jamaica’s future workforce needs and national development priorities, the release said.

Scholarship recipient Walfall said: “Over the years, being a master blender scholar has been a source of encouragement and motivation throughout my academic journey. To now be selected as the Chairman’s Award recipient is truly overwhelming and deeply rewarding. This recognition represents not only my achievements but also the support, encouragement and opportunities the JWN Foundation (JWNF) has provided along the way.

JWN Foundation tertiary scholarship chairman awardee for 2026 Lauren Walfall (left) receiving her 2025 Master Blender Award from JWN Foundation Director Marsha Haughton. The Chairman’s Award is given to a three-time master blender repeat scholar who demonstrates strong academic performance, leadership, service and community involvement. (Photo: Mohic Ferguson)

“The programme has challenged me to pursue excellence, both academically and personally, and I am grateful to be part of a community that genuinely believes in the potential of young people. I hope my journey inspires other students to remain determined and to make the most of every opportunity that comes their way,” she said.

The release said the JWN Foundation Scholarship Programme provides a holistic framework of support designed to help scholars thrive academically, personally and professionally. Throughout the year, scholars benefit from developmental initiatives including interview preparation workshops, awards ceremonies, personal branding and professional development training, networking opportunities, and volunteer engagement activities.

A key differentiator of the programme is the foundation’s Skills Bank Programme, which serves as a talent pipeline connecting scholars with internship and employment opportunities within J Wray & Nephew Limited. Through this initiative scholars gain exposure to the professional world, practical work experience, and mentorship opportunities, with the potential to transition into permanent employment. The skills bank reinforces the foundation’s commitment to creating a pathway from educational achievement to meaningful career success, the release said.

As part of the foundation’s commitment to scholar development the 2026 awards cycle featured two major scholar engagement events designed to celebrate achievement while equipping recipients for future success. Secondary scholarship recipients were celebrated at the foundation’s annual Movie Day & Awards Ceremony, which brought together 69 scholars alongside parents, volunteers, and foundation representatives for an afternoon of recognition, inspiration and fellowship. Scholars were presented with trophies and back-to-school care packages containing essential school supplies as they prepare for the new academic year.

The release said the foundation also bolstered its support of its tertiary scholars by organising a Personal Branding Workshop & Awards Ceremony as part of its broader commitment to student development. The initiative is expected to provide scholars with training in communication, personal branding, professional presence, and financial literacy, while professional headshots captured during the event will feature in the foundation’s annual scholarship newspaper supplement, spotlighting recipients’ achievements and the transformative impact of the programme across Jamaica.

Speaking on the success of the programme, Garfene Grandison, general manager of the JWN Foundation, was very pleased with the 2026 performance.

Repeat JWN Foundation scholars DeNille Clarke (left) and Daesha Brown (right) at the 2025 staging of the Personal Development Workshop and Awards. The 2026 staging is set for later this month. (Photo: Mohic Ferguson)

“This year was arduous but very rewarding. These students have been through a lot with two back-to-back hurricanes but they have come out strong and we are seeing the results. At JWNF we view scholarships as the beginning of a journey, not the end. While financial support helps ease the burden of educational expenses, our goal is to equip scholars with the skills, experiences, and opportunities they need to succeed beyond graduation. Through initiatives such as the Personal Branding Workshop, our skills bank, and other development opportunities, we are creating pathways that help young people transition confidently from the classroom into the workforce.

“We are seeing the results of these initiatives in real time, in their interviews, and in our interactions with them. Some of our scholars have gone on to become interns and employees within the JWN family, which is a testament to the impact and long-term value of the programme. Plus, receiving 374 applications this year is a clear indication that families recognise the value of the programme and trust the foundation’s commitment to education.

“We are proud to support 211 outstanding students and look forward to watching their continued success in the years ahead,” he said.

Marsha Haughton, director of the JWN Foundation, emphasised the importance of supporting scholars beyond the classroom.

“One of the things we are most proud of is that the scholarship programme has evolved beyond financial assistance. We are intentionally creating opportunities that help young people build confidence, strengthen critical life skills, and prepare for the opportunities ahead. Through our initiatives we are not only celebrating academic achievement but also helping scholars tell their stories and see themselves as future leaders, professionals and changemakers,” Haughton said.

While the 2026 scholarship awards cycle has now been completed, the foundation’s investment in its scholars continues. Throughout the academic year recipients will benefit from ongoing learning, networking, volunteerism, and professional development opportunities that are designed to support their academic, personal and career advancement.