JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation Inspires Students to Lead with Confidence, Invests $17.5 million in Scholarships and Bursaries

The JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation is empowering the next generation of leaders through scholarships and educational support for the 2026-2027 academic year, helping students pursue their academic goals and prepare to make meaningful contributions to Jamaica's development. The awards were presented at the Foundation's annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony, held recently at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel.

This year's scholarship programme attracted significant interest, with 482 applications received, underscoring the growing need for educational support and the determination of young Jamaicans to further their studies. Through the programme, the Foundation invested more than J$17.5 million in scholarships, bursaries and educational grants, including approximately J$14.7 million in undergraduate scholarships awarded to 31 tertiary students and approximately J$2.7 million in support for primary and secondary school students. Among the awards were two scholarships sponsored by the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), reflecting the value of partnerships in expanding educational opportunities for Jamaican students.

Addressing scholarship recipients and their families at the Awards Ceremony, Kim Mair, Chief Executive Officer of the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, encouraged the students to remain committed to excellence and purposeful service. "These scholarships represent far more than financial assistance. They are an expression of confidence in the ability of our recipients to make meaningful contributions to society. We believe each of these young people possesses the talent, determination and potential to become leaders, innovators and changemakers who will positively impact their communities and Jamaica as a whole."

Mair reaffirmed the Foundation's belief in the transformative power of education, noting that investing in students is ultimately an investment in stronger families, stronger communities and a stronger nation. 

Delivering the feature address, Patricia Duncan-Sutherland, Chairman of the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, challenged recipients to embrace their worth, pursue opportunities boldly and show up confidently in every space they enter. "Too often, we are taught to blend in when what we really need is the confidence to stand out. You were selected because we see greatness in you. Wherever life takes you, remember that you have been chosen because of your potential. Take up space, embrace opportunities and never allow yourself to believe that you are not enough." She encouraged scholars to see themselves as the architects of their own futures, reminding them that confidence, purpose and self-belief play a critical role in achieving success. 

Speaking on behalf of the recipients, scholarship awardee Christopher Allen expressed gratitude to the Foundation, donors and supporters for investing in the next generation. "This scholarship does far more than provide financial assistance. It opens doors for students who are determined to achieve their goals. By investing in us, the Foundation is investing in Jamaica's future. We recognize the responsibility that comes with this opportunity, and we are committed to honouring that trust through our studies, our leadership and our future contributions to society."

He also thanked parents, guardians and mentors for the sacrifices they have made to support students on their educational journeys, describing their encouragement as an important part of each recipient's success. 

Rooted in the values of love, openness, honesty, integrity and care championed by the late Joan Duncan, the Foundation's scholarship programme continues to create pathways to opportunity for academically capable and community-minded students across Jamaica. Through its investment in education, the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation remains committed to empowering young people to realize their full potential and become positive agents of change in their communities and beyond.