MIAMI – Two students of St. George’s College in Kingston, 14 year old, Charles Frost and 13 year old, Jezeel Martin Williams were recently awarded the first Philip H. Wong scholarships for secondary and tertiary studies.
The two full scholarships were awarded by alumni member and South Florida businessman, Philip Wong, at the school during a recent visit to the institution.
Three other students were also recipients of scholarships throughout their tenure at the College. Those were 13 year old Rojae Powell and Aldin Crosdale and Tevin Williams, both 14 year old.
The students were selected based primarily on needs and more importantly on the excellent academic grades, outstanding attendance record and involvement in extra curricular activities.
In congratulating the scholarship recipients, Director of Guidance at the Institution, Ainsworth Walker encouraged them to continue performing at the highest level as they were a source of inspiration to their peers.
Both Frost and Williams have each been presented with a lap top computer to help them in their daily studies.
Second former, Jezeel Martin Williams, (grade 8) has expressed the desire to be involved in the island’s tourist industry as he aspires to a career in management. Described as ambitious, willing and intelligent, Williams has indicated that his life’s motto is to aim for the sky and he will reach his expectations.
A resident of what he describes as the ‘ghetto’ of August Town, young Williams has been tutoring his friends with their school work emphasizing that “no matter where you come from great things can come of you.”
An ardent sport fan, he likes to play badminton and football, while also having a keen interest in music appreciation and reading.
Third former (grade 9), Charles Frost’s goal is to become a medical doctor or serve his country in public service as a politician. Also described as helpful and ambitious, Frost, a resident of Allman Town, also indicated that he chose those professions in order to help those in lesser fortunate circumstances.
Contrary to the inner city image, Frost refers to his community as fairly good with kind and friendly neighbors. He becomes actively involved in community projects for instance Labor Day clean-up campaigns.
As he aspires to maintain a good academic performance, Frost constructively occupies himself with his studies, especially his favorites subjects including mathematics, science, Spanish, geography, religious education and computer studies. During his spare time, he finds interest in cricket, tennis and badminton and reading.
All recipients are expected to adhere to the requirements of the scholarships which will cover vital resources and materials needed to assist their academic goals.
Coverage will include cost of tuition, books, uniforms, lunch and other accessories as needed.
The selection process was carried out through a committee from the school administration.
Finally, the boys were interviewed by Mr. Philip Wong and Mr. Dennis Barnett, President of the Florida Chapter of Alumni Association, who accompanied Mr. Wong.
On hearing of the goals and aspirations of the young men, Mr. Wong also met with the individual families of the five scholarship recipients. Sharing his upbringing with them, he expressed gratitude to his alma mater and for family support for a solid foundation, which even allowed him the opportunity to continue through college. His early education, he said, has helped him to handle the success and challenges of his South Florida business, today, the Deltana Enterprise, Incorporated.
Today, he committed himself to sharing the same opportunities with those ambitious students in a less fortunate and similar situation as he was.
Mr. Wong indicated that this donation is a pilot project that he intends to review next year with an aim to make it an annual effort.
In his appeal to corporations and alumni members to support the school’s “Scholarship Motivation Drive” which was launched in July, this year, Mr. Walker said that earlier donations have also contributed indirectly to the overall performance at St. Georges. “Students are becoming motivated and encouraged in their academic pursuits” he added.
