JAMAICA | Montego Bay Foundation Powers Dreams: $10 Million in Scholarships Transforms Young Lives

Howard Ward Benefit Foundation's signature fundraiser fuels educational revolution across western Jamaica

MONTEGO BAY, August 21, 2025 - The humid August afternoon at Seagarden Beach Resort crackled with more than just Montego Bay's tropical energy—it pulsed with the dreams of 48 young Jamaicans whose educational futures had just been secured by a $10 million investment in their potential.

At yesterday's Howard Ward Benefit Foundation Scholarship Presentation Ceremony, the impressive figures told only part of the story. Since launching their scholarship program in 2023, the Foundation has awarded 88 scholarships worth over $22 million, but the real currency being exchanged was hope, opportunity, and unwavering belief in Caribbean youth.

"You are stepping into a circle of support that believes in your potential, your dreams, and your ability to make a difference in Jamaica and beyond," Foundation Director Suzette Brown told the gathered students, whose academic journeys span from Montego Bay high schools to medical universities in China and Cuba.

From Night Run to Life-Changing Reality

The Foundation's ingenious funding model deserves particular celebration. Rather than relying solely on traditional philanthropy, they've harnessed community spirit through the MoBay Night Run, their signature fundraising event. This approach transforms what could be passive charity into active community participation, where every runner's stride literally translates into educational opportunity.

The numbers are striking: tertiary students receive scholarships valued up to $300,000 each, while high school beneficiaries receive $50,000. But more impressively, these aren't one-time handouts—they're commitments for the duration of each student's academic journey, provided they maintain a B average.

This year's 48 recipients include 24 new tertiary beneficiaries joining 13 returning scholars and 11 high school students. They'll attend institutions ranging from the University of the West Indies and University of Technology to Sam Sharpe Teachers College, Montego Bay Community College, and even international destinations like Anhui Medical University in China and Universidad de Ciencias Medicas de la Habana in Cuba.

Breaking Geographic Barriers

Initially focused on St. James and Trelawny parishes, the Foundation is thoughtfully expanding its reach. This year marks their first scholarship to a deserving student from Westmoreland, with plans to cast their net even wider in coming years. It's a strategic approach that balances deep community roots with broader regional impact.

Chief Executiv e Officer of the Howard Ward Foundation, Miss Suzette Brown

 Success Stories Already Emerging

The Foundation's track record speaks volumes. Seven beneficiaries have already completed their studies, including graduates in actuarial science, nursing, education, and associate degrees. Particularly inspiring is Marissa Martin, who completed her associate degree at Montego Bay Community College and is now heading to UWI as a new scholar—a perfect example of the Foundation's pipeline from community college to university.

The diversity of completed programs—from Danielle Hoilett's actuarial science degree to Mykashay Hibbert's Spanish and French education qualification—demonstrates the Foundation's commitment to supporting varied academic paths that serve different community needs.

More Than Money: Building Character

Howard Ward, the Foundation's chairman and managing director of Wards Power Tools, has created something more substantial than a scholarship program—he's built a legacy framework. The emphasis on maintaining academic standards, the commitment to support students throughout their academic journey, and the explicit connection between education and community service reflects a sophisticated understanding of sustainable development.

The Foundation's message to recipients was clear: "See these scholarships not only as financial support but also as an investment in your character, discipline, and contribution to society."

Caribbean Development Model

The Howard Ward Benefit Foundation represents a powerful model for Caribbean development—locally rooted, community-driven, and strategically expanding. By combining business acumen with social responsibility and community engagement, they've created a sustainable approach to educational investment that other Caribbean territories could emulate.

As these 48 young scholars embark on their academic journeys, they carry more than financial support—they bear the hopes of a community that has literally run for their futures. In a region where brain drain often overshadows brain investment, the Howard Ward Benefit Foundation stands as proof that Caribbean communities can and will invest in keeping their brightest stars shining at home.

The future of Jamaica, as the Foundation noted, rests in these young hands. Based on their first three years of impact, those hands are being very well prepared indeed.