Knowing that I was being invested in, genuinely changed my outlook on life. It taught me many important lessons to which I attribute to the man I am today. It taught me to appreciate each opportunity. It showed me the value in making an impact on the lives of others. And it demonstrated to me the importance of generosity and giving back.Mikhail Jackson, Campion Past Student and Scholarship Recipient
The Student Support and Scholarship programme is not only a way of supporting students who face financial challenges, but also a way of motivating them. The program not only assists some of the island's brightest students in making ends meet, but also has requirements pertaining to performance, good behaviour and involvement in school community which builds character and influences the lives of the beneficiaries encouraging them to have the same influence on others.
Campion Alumni Mikhail Jackson expressed the impact that the Student Support and Scholarship Programme had on him as a student at Campion College. After taking advantage of one of the several scholarships that Campion’s programme provides, he believes this was instrumental in his success throughout school.
Throughout my time at Campion I was very active. Among other things, I was a sub prefect, prefect and later Head Boy. I was also House Captain for the best house, Bellarmine.Jackson
He lauded the support he received in high school, and that it is now a big part of the reason he feels the need to give back where he can. Today he is a graduate of the Norman Manley Law School and works for the nation's oldest law firm, Livingston Alexander and Levy.
The school’s guidance Counselor Ms Dominique Rose notes that there are currently close to one hundred students who benefit from the programme at a cost of $2.7 million per year. The programme has three main aims, help the students, keep their profiles confidential so as to avoid unnecessary controversy and, respect and honor the wishes of donors. Donors include organizations and individuals.
Jackson reiterates the impact of the Support and Scholarship Programme on the student, the school and the wider community,
You see, when you contribute to the scholarship fund, you are investing in the future of someone who can have limitless impact on the world at large. You are in turn investing in the future of our country and the world. That person appreciates the investment you have made in them and is motivated by it to succeed and excel. That person recognises the importance of generosity and will in turn do the same for others. I have had as my personal motto since receiving the scholarship in high school the following mantra: give me a place to stand, and I will move the world.Jackson
The programme provides a daily subsidy for lunch as well as transportation and tuition support in the case of scholarships. They are granted privately in order to protect the identity of the students who benefit.
Events co-ordinator for the CCAA Ryan Silvera noted that while discretion with a programme like this is priority, there is still a significant need at the school and they would like to see the number of students who are able to benefit from the programme increase. Chillin' n Grillin' is one such way that they are trying to increase contributions to the programme.
Hosted by the Campion College Alumni Association, Chillin’ n Grillin’ is an all-you-can-eat lime that raises funds towards the programme. This year’s staging will feature chefs Alexa Von Strolley from Tooksie Kay Catering, Rainforest Seafood’s Evrol Ebanks and the BBQ master Gariel Ferguson grilling up great meals courtesy of Rainforest Seafoods, Copperwood Pork & CB Chicken. Tickets cost $5000 each and food is inclusive. Drinks, wines and beers are being provided by Select Brands and Wisynco. Chillin’ n Grillin’ will be at The Courtyard on the grounds of Campion College and will be transformed by Main Event and KW Events. The Campion College Alumni Association is aiming to raise over $500,000 for the Student Support and Scholarship programme. Tickets can be purchased at the School’s main office, Fontana Pharmacy in Barbican, Mailpac in Manor Park, Ribbiz in Loshusan, Market Me Consulting in 13 West Kings House Road or from any of the event’s ambassadors.
About The Desk at 13 West
Market Me Consulting Limited is a Jamaican owned and operated communications company.