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Photo Caption: Jazmine Stewart, 2024 JN Foundation PEP Scholarship recipient for St Mary strikes a pose at her graduation alongside her academic awards from Retreat Primary School. She is accompanied by aunt, Nadine Benain (centre) and mother, Diandra Thompson-Stewart (right).

From age nine, Jazmine Stewart, former deputy head girl of Retreat Primary School and JN  Foundation PEP Scholar for St Mary, knew that she wanted to go to York Castle High School in Browns Town, St Ann.

“I planned out my school choices before I was even in grade five,” the now 13-year-old scholar said.

She worked diligently to achieve, what was at that time, her most important goal. From completing past papers to attending morning and evening classes, she did all she could with her objective in mind. “Just the fact that I could have a chance at going to York Castle kept me motivated to study. It’s kind of a big deal,” she continued.

As the youngest of 3 siblings, she benefited from the encouragement and guidance of her parents, Tristan Stewart and Diandra Thompson Stewart, who were proud to know their daughter was an exceptional student from a young age. “I knew she would get her first choice [York Castle High School], she’s been keeping her grades up since, well…, kindergarten so I wasn’t surprised,” Mrs Thompson Stewart said.

Having consistently placed at the top of her class, Jazmine’s hard work and dedication culminated in an impressive score of 365.3 out of the maximum 400 on her PEP exams. On graduation day, her efforts were recognised as she took home several academic awards, including the coveted title of ‘Top Girl’. This did not shock Mrs Thompson Stewart, “PEP is a lot, but the fact that she had a stronghold on it mentally helped. She was always like, ‘Mommy, I got this.’”

Together, the mother-daughter duo applied for scholarships to ensure the academic reign continued into her secondary school journey. But despite her planning, one thing Jazmine could not prepare for was a surprise call from her mother during lunch.

Overjoyed, Mrs Thompson Stewart couldn’t help but share the good news: Jazmine had been awarded a five -year scholarship from JN Foundation.

“I was so excited, I couldn’t help it,” Mrs Thompson Stewart explained.

“I didn’t believe her,” Jazmine continued, “She called me in the lunch line and texted me: ‘If I’m lying, I’m dying.’”

For 41 years, the JN Foundation Scholarship Programme has rewarded students like Jazmine, whose dreams of academic excellence mirror the Foundation’s goal to support youth development. This year, 37 scholarships and 10 grants have been awarded to exceptional students from across the island to help them achieve their educational and personal development goals.

“She’s one of those students that you expect to do exceptionally well. To watch Jazmine win something is a sight and I’m excited to see what she does with this scholarship,” said her Grade 6 Mathematics teacher, Mrs Tamara Howard-Hemmings.

“You know it’s like a reward for her, because the praise is coming from outside now, not just from us the family or teachers, saying that she’s brilliant. It shows her (Jazmine) that when you put in the hard work people will see it and keep her motivated to do great,” noted her father, Tristan Stewart.

Now, having completed her first term at York Castle, the teen remains excited about all her school has to offer. She continues to enjoy the atmosphere of her favourite class, information technology, and has joined the Homemakers Club and Key Club. The young optimist also hopes to participate in sports once she has settled in.

The transition to high school has not been without its difficulties, as Jazmine juggles school, extracurricular activities, homework, and a long daily commute which sometimes involves her returning home well after dark. Regardless of the challenges her parents remain proud of their daughter’s zeal, “It’s refreshing to see one so young, so committed to her studies,” her dad mused. “Yes, my favourite thing about ‘Jaz’ is her resilience and persistence. I always tell her to do her best and she does,” her mother lauded her.

From a dream at nine-years-old to walking the halls of York Castle High School with pride, the JN Foundation PEP Scholarship has encouraged Jazmine to continue paving the way for her future success as an orthodontist. While Jazmine continues to make her other dreams a reality, she encourages PEP students to, “think about how proud your friends and family will be, of you for going to your first-choice high school.”

Photo Caption: Rose Miller, Financial education consultant at the JN Foundation, and facilitator at the JN Financial Academy.

Jamaicans are being urged to adopt smart financial practices this Christmas to avoid accumulating debt and be in a better position to benefit from an improving economy.

Rose Miller, Financial education consultant at the JN Foundation, and facilitator at the JN Financial Academy, highlights the ongoing challenges of personal debt management in Jamaica, attributing them to poor financial habits.

“Jamaicans know the importance of saving, but this knowledge often doesn’t translate into better spending practices,” Mrs Miller explained.

To help Jamaicans manage their money this festive season to avoid financial strain, Mrs Miller shares five key tips for managing money wisely:

1. Invest Any Extra Income or Clear Existing Debts

Christmas sometimes brings extra income, such as bonuses. Instead of splurging, Mrs Miller advises channelling these funds into investments.

“Consider using the bonus to pay down existing debt,” she suggested. Alternatively, she recommends placing your bonus in a fixed or long-term savings account to earn higher interest, or explore stocks, mutual funds, and other financial instruments offered by regulated institutions.

2. Create and Stick to a Budget

“A specific budget for Christmas spending is essential,” Mrs Miller emphasised. Prioritise needs over wants and allocate funds only for necessary expenses and activities.

For those using credit cards, she warns against overspending:

“Remember, your credit card is a loan with high interest rates. Spend within your means and aim to settle the balance before the due date to avoid interest charges.”  This will also ensure  that you truly enjoy benefits such as cash-back rewards and  no point-of-sale fees.

3. Be Creative with Gift Giving

Gift-giving doesn’t need to break the bank. Mrs Miller suggests tapping into personal creativity to craft unique, meaningful presents.

“Homemade gifts often cost less and hold greater sentimental value than store-bought items,” she noted. Additionally, opting for shared gifts for households can reduce costs and simplify shopping.

4. Share the Cost of Christmas Dinner

Hosting a holiday dinner should not mean shouldering all the expenses. Mrs Miller encourages families to adopt a collaborative approach.

“Ask guests to contribute by bringing their preferred drinks or specific dishes,” she proposed. “This spreads the cost and reduces your financial burden.”

5. Spend and Invest Wisely

Mrs Miller concludes with a reminder that thoughtful financial decisions can lead to a more enjoyable Christmas and a more financially stable New Year.

“By planning and prioritising, you can celebrate the season without the stress of mounting debt,” she said.

Photo Caption: Reverend Phillip Johnson (centre), daughter, Danielle Johnson (right0 and Sydoney Preddie, lead, youth and education programmes at the JN Foundation share a family vision board on how families can be strengthened at a JN Foundation Parent and Child Empowerment session held recently under the theme, “The Productive Family Unit; Serving Individual Ambitions.”

Family dynamics and mental health took centre stage at the JN Foundation’s Parent and Child Empowerment (PACE) seminar, as panellists offered advice on fostering unity and resilience within families.

The seminar was held recently, in observance of Parent Month, which was observed in November under the theme, ‘Serving Individual Ambitions: The Productive Family Unit’ and was held in the form of a panel discussion with father-and-daughter, Phillip and Danielle Johnson. The seminar was moderated by Sydoney Preddie, lead, youth and education programmes at the JN Foundation.

Reverend Phillip Johnson emphasised the importance of maintaining an open line of communication within the family. “Every family has conflicts,” he noted, “but having a space for roundtable discussions where everyone feelings are heard, can make a significant difference.” Such discussions, whether addressing serious matters or minor grievances, help to eliminate division and encourage productivity in the home, he noted.

Another highlight was the conversation on healthy competition versus unhealthy comparisons, especially within goal-orientated families. Panellist, Danielle Johnson shared her experience studying alongside her mother at university, describing it as more collaborative than competitive.

“At the end of the day,” she said, “I aim to be a better version of myself rather than compare myself to others.”

Reverend Johnson offered wisdom on safeguarding mental health amid life’s pressures and also highlighted the importance of each family member having alone time to rejuvenate and the need to support this activity as a family unit.

 “Peace begins with the mind and extends to the home, the church, and the community,” he stated. He also pointed out the need for leaders and families to guard against external stress infiltrating their inner sanctum. Taking vacations, enjoying family meals, and maintaining a tranquil environment were highlighted as strategies for mental well-being.

From playful moments like family games nights during the pandemic, to adapting to societal changes such as social media use, the discussions underscored the importance of flexibility in navigating challenges. “Even in tough times,” Danielle Johnson said, “those shared moments of laughter and support bring us closer and keep us grounded.”

Leesa Kow, managing director of JN Bank, who welcomed participants at the session, urged parents to consider how they could nurture their children’s ambitions, while children were encouraged to reflect on how they could uplift their parents and siblings.

“In each of our families, it is very important that we find out what our ambitions and aspirations are and work together as a team to ensure that no dream gets left behind,” she said. Drawing on Jamaican proverbs such as “One han’ cyah clap” and “No man is an island,” she reminded participants of the value of collaboration in achieving success.

Miss Kow said the JN Group, through its JN Foundation, underscored its commitment to empowering families as part of its People First strategic pillar. “Families are not only central to our communities but also to our success as an organisation,” she shared. “When families grow and thrive, we all succeed.”

She said this commitment to family support is reflected in JN Group’s decades-long investment in programmes that uplift families through education, community development, and social empowerment.

Photo Caption: Members of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition take a group photo. From left to right are Omar Green, Chrisopher Atkinson, Rodney Forbes, Paula Anna Porter Jones, Kevon Clayton and Yosef Bent.

Motorcyclists and members of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC) are underscoring the importance of wearing a helmet when riding or travelling as a pillion. They also highlighted essential safety practices for riders and motorists.

The advice was provided as part of activities to observe World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, commemorated on November 17, 2024. Motorcyclists formed a convoy on the day, riding from Ferry, St Catherine to a well-known crash hot spot across from the Mandeville Regional Hospital in Manchester.

The event was organised by the NHWC, an initiative managed by the JN Foundation in collaboration with the National Road Safety Council and funded by the FIA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the world governing body for motorsport.

Well-known media personality, Paula Ann Porter Jones, who is a member of the NHWC and a motorcyclist for over 10 years, stressed the importance of constant vigilance and awareness on the road. “It’s easy to forget what’s happening around you and think it’s just you, the machine, and the road,” she said. “But my thought is always, it’s not me alone.”

She emphasised that safety goes beyond personal control of the vehicle. “Safety involves not just what I’m doing on the motorcycle, but looking around for the dog, the cat, the cow, or the child running into the road,” she explained. “It also means being aware of car drivers who glance in their rearview mirrors but don’t see motorcyclists.”

Mrs Porter Jones urged riders to adopt a defensive mindset, effectively driving for everyone and everything on the road. This heightened awareness, she noted, is key to mitigating many potential hazards. “If you are that aware and that careful, you ride, you enjoy your machine, but you also avoid many of the things that could go wrong,” she advised.

Her safety message aligns with the goals of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, a time to reflect on lives lost and promote safer road behaviours. “If reflecting on our habits can prevent future tragedies, then those lives lost will not have been in vain,” Mrs Porter Jones added.

Otherexperienced riders, including Omar Green, Rodney Forbes, and Kevon Clayton, stressed the importance of prioritising safety through the wearing of proper gear, training, and responsible habits.

“All riders should invest in proper protective gear before even buying a bike,” said Kevon Clayton, a member of the Upshifterz Motorcycle Club. “Buy a certified helmet approved by authorities like DOT or Snell, a padded jacket, and gloves. Your life is worth far more than your bike.”

Rodney Forbes, a rider for three years, echoed this sentiment, emphasising that while bikes and gear can be replaced, “you can’t replace your body parts or your life.”

Meanwhile Mr Green, a rider with eight years of experience, highlighted the value of professional training and mentorship. “I was fortunate to learn from mature, accomplished riders who guided me on road principles and safety. Additionally, I recommend formal motorcycle courses, like the Back-to-Basics course in Kingston, to refine skills and build confidence.”

Mr Green also encouraged new riders to surround themselves with responsible individuals who prioritise safety and the joy of riding responsibly.

All riders agreed on the importance of a defensive approach to riding. “You have to drive not just for yourself but for others on the road,” said Mr Green. “Watch out for pedestrians, animals, and inattentive drivers who might not see a motorcyclist.”

Mr Clayton, who has survived multiple accidents, credited his helmet for saving his life. “I cannot overstate how essential it is to wear proper safety gear every time you ride.”

The riders also emphasised their commitment to educating younger motorcyclists. “Many young riders are influenced by bad role models who focus on hype and excitement, which isn’t always safe,” said Mr Clayton. “We want to shift that narrative by promoting helmet use, safe riding practices, and respect for the road.”

The ride out event did not only honour traffic victims but also reinforced the collective responsibility of all riders to advocate for safety and reduce road traffic fatalities. As Mr Forbes remarked, “Riding responsibly is not just about protecting yourself—it’s about fostering a culture where safety is the norm, not the exception.”

The NHWC partnered with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, which has been demonstrating its support for motorcycle safety through collaborative efforts to promote helmet safety education and helmet distribution.

Photo Caption: Mickalia Grant (left), IT business manager, The Jamaica National Group; and Candice Nichols, (centre), social impact assessment officer, JN Foundation; present Christine Madden Watson, administrator, Sophie’s Place, with supplies raised through the ‘Comfort for Christmas’ initiative. The handover took place at Sophie’s Place last Christmas. 

For the third consecutive year, employees across the JN Group will spread goodwill for Christmas by engaging in a heartwarming outreach to support Mustard Seed Communities through the JN Foundation “Comfort for Christmas” initiative.

This year, eight apostolates of the Mustard Seed Communities are set to benefit from the effort, which is a feature of the Group’s employee giving programme. They are: Jerusalem in St Catherine; Widow’s Mite and Jacob’s Ladder in St Ann; Sophie’s Place, My Father’s House and Mary’s Child in St Andrew; Gift of Hope in Manchester and Blessed Assurance in St James.

Candice Nichols, social impact assessment officer at JN Foundation, who leads on ‘Comfort for Christmas’ pointed out that the proactive support and generosity of employees have been the backbone of the success of the outreach mission.

“Giving back is deeply embedded in our culture at JN, and employees live this value every day. Their commitment to making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate is inspiring, and it is aligned with the values of the JN Group. Their effort shows how collective action can create meaningful change by extending kindness and support to those who need it most.”

Ms Nichols is encouraging the wider society to partner with JN employees by making monetary contributions to the JN Foundation’s Fuel a Nation savings account at JN Bank number RSV-002094590587 held at the Duke Street branch, with ‘Comfort for Christmas’ in the description to ensure funds go directly to the initiative.

“With the additional support from the public, we can provide even greater contribution to Mustard Seed Communities. The needs are immense, and every donation allows us to extend more help. We encourage everyone to join in this effort to make a meaningful difference this Christmas,” urged Ms Nichols.

Building on last year’s success, where employees and the JN Foundation provided nearly 6,000 diapers, 300 packs of milk, a commercial printer, and an industrial pressure cooker, the goal this year is to exceed those efforts.

Camille Barrett, escalation agent at the TCS Contact Centre & Debt Management, has already started organising a diaper drive in her work location to support the ‘Comfort for Christmas’ initiative. Last year, she used her own funds to purchase diapers and sought support for the initiative by encouraging her colleagues and members of the public to contribute.

“I enjoy giving back. I’m really big on charity. It’s something that’s in me from a tender age,” she said, adding that she was influenced by her mother, who for many years helped the less fortunate in her community and hosted children from a girls’ home every Christmas.

‘I grew up seeing them as my sisters,” she related. “I grew up not seeing myself better than anybody else.  One thing I’ve learned is to always help somebody.  It comes naturally.” 

Immediately after the outreach initiative at Mary’s Child last year, Camille returned with a hair stylist to braid the hair of some of the residents of the Home.

Christine Madden Watson, administrator at Sophie’s Place, one of the beneficiaries, expressed anticipation for the contributions, while noting the enormous need for consumables.  

“We are always elated to partner with JN to provide for the residents,” she said, adding that diapers are always in great demand as hundreds are used each month at her location.

She also pointed out that with additional support provided by ‘Good Samaritans’ through donations, the home has been able to operate efficiently in caring for the various needs of the residents.

Sophie’s Place is home to 23 special needs children and adults who range from age three to 38.

For many years, JN employees sponsored children at Sophie’s Place, helping with the cost of prescription medications.

Photo Caption: Omar Wright (right), lead, environment and community development programmes at the JN Foundation interacts with students who attended the youth symposium.

Omar Wright, lead, environment and community development programmes at the JN Foundation says students should take an active role in advocating for road safety, emphasising that youth voices are essential to addressing the global crisis of road traffic crashes.

Mr Wright made the call at the Manchester Beliefs Values and Attitudes Youth Symposium hosted by Custos of Manchester, Lt. Col. Garfield Green. The event was held recently at the Kendal Camp and Conference Centre in Manchester.

Pointing to alarming statistics from a 2019 UN study, Mr Wright underscored that road traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for young people worldwide. Locally, Jamaicans aged 15 to 29 years account for a third of road fatalities, a statistic that he said emphsises the urgency of youth involvement in fostering change.

He encouraged students attending the symposium to stand up as representatives of the age group most affected by road crashes and emphasised the importance of their taking personal responsibility and cultivating leadership to advocate for safer roads.

“We need your belief, your values, and your willingness to take action,” he stated, urging students to see themselves as key agents of change.

He shared practical tips with students in attendance at the symposium on how to become road safety advocates. His advised them to model safe behaviours, such as wearing seatbelts, using crosswalks, and avoiding distractions, like mobile phones when on the road.

Mr Wright encouraged participants at the youth forum to educate their peers and community members about the risks of speeding, drunk driving, and other unsafe practices.

He recommended that young people join or initiate local road safety campaigns, such as walks or events, honouring road crash victims, as powerful ways to build awareness. Students were also advised to partner with schools, community leaders, and the police to advocate for measures such as better road infrastructure and stricter enforcement of traffic laws.

Acknowledging the power of digital platforms, the JN Foundation manager urged youth to leverage social media to spread positive messages about road safety.

The symposium also highlighted ongoing efforts by the JN Foundation to address the crisis. “We are here to empower you with knowledge and opportunities to create change,” he said. “But we cannot do it alone. Your voice is essential.”

Students were inspired to see their advocacy to not only protect lives but also honour their potential. “We want to celebrate your achievements, not mourn your losses,” the JN Foundation lead on environment and community development programmes reminded attendees.

The symposium was hosted under the theme ‘Youth Leadership and Civic Engagement’. Established in 2021, the Manchester Beliefs, Values and Attitudes initiative emerged in response to the pressing social challenges facing Jamaican communities. It aims to facilitate attitudinal change and social revitalisation. The JN Foundation was a sponsor of the symposium.

For 12-year-old Nickayla Jarrett, being named the JN Foundation PEP Scholar for the parish of Trelawny has been a “monumental achievement.”

“My family was overwhelmed with joy, bursting with pride. I am the first person in my family to have received a scholarship of this nature,” she beamed, as she described the moment she learned she was the recipient of this coveted academic award.

Described as “responsible, reliable, and passionate” by her immensely proud mother, Alecia Morgan-Jarrett, the former student of the Hague Primary and Infant School, now attending Westwood High School, achieved a score of 374.9 out of 400 in Primary Exit Profile, simply known as PEP to most, to land the competitive scholarship.

Mrs Morgan Jarrett praises her daughter as a young lady who works diligently towards her goals consistently.

“I’m not surprised when Nickayla was named the 2024 JN Foundation PEP Scholar for Trelawny.”

An aspiring fashion designer – a career some may consider unconventional for children her age – Nickayla has dreams of studying her craft at some of the most prestigious schools overseas, and she has the full support of her family.

“I want to attend the New York School of Design and become a fashion designer and a franchise owner,” she proudly proclaims.

With big dreams and even bigger goals, the math enthusiast who loves solving problems, has already set the targets that will assist with achieving her goals.

Her love for problem-solving is a characteristic her sixth-grade teacher, Shannon Anglin, also singles out, describing Nickyala as, “a rare gem who faces challenges with humility, determination, and a hunger for success.”

She says she encouraged Nickayla to not only to pursue academic scholarship, but to become well-rounded by participating in various extracurricular activities. The young scholar, as a result, made time in her schedule at primary school for dance and the children’s choir at the Duncan’s New Testament Church of God, while also maintaining active participation as a Girl Guide, a member of the Schools’ Challenge Quiz team, the Mathematics Club and 4-H Club.

She has carried on her strong participation in non-academic activities since matriculating to Westwood High School as member of the News Society and Debate clubs.

“I try to maintain a schedule that balances academics, extracurricular activities, and socialising,” the pre-teen says, but not missing the chance to again express her gratitude to the JN Foundation for what she describes as an “invaluable opportunity.”

“This scholarship will ease some of the financial pressures on my mother, allowing us to focus on my academics and extracurricular activities rather than financial stress,” she commented.

Not only is she grateful to the JN Foundation, but also for the support of her grandparents, especially her grandfather, Aspinel Jarrett aka ‘Oliver’, who she says, “consistently devotes his time to stay with my brother and I after school until my mother returns home from work.”

Also on her gratitude list are her dedicated teachers at Hague Primary and Infant School, particularly her grade six teacher, Mrs Anglin.

“Her patience and encouragement inspired me. And Miss Hales, whose guidance helped shape my young mind,” she said.

Nickayla also acknowledges her spiritual family at Duncan’s New Testament Church of God, who prayed with and for her, and finally, but not least, she declared: “I thank God Almighty for His unwavering protection and guidance in my life.”

The JN Foundation PEP Scholarship and grants are awarded to students who demonstrate academic prowess, leadership potential, and a commitment to excellence – qualities that Nickayla has exemplified throughout her brief educational journey.

Since 1983, The Jamaica National Group has been supporting the educational pursuits of hundreds of young people at both the secondary and tertiary levels through the scholarship programme.

Photo Caption: Dr Kevin Blake (left), Commissioner of Police gets ready to distribute helmets in Mandeville, Manchester following a ‘ride out’ from Ferry, St Catherine to mark World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, recently. Looking on is Claudine Allen, general manager of the JN Foundation.

General Manager of the JN Foundation, Claudine Allen, is emphasising the urgent need for collective action to address motorcycle-related road fatalities.

She made the poignant statement while addressing motorcyclists and patrons who converged in Mandeville, Manchester, recently following a ‘ride out’ from Ferry, St Catherine to mark World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims under the global theme, Remember, Support and Act.

The event was organised by the National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC), an initiative being implemented by the JN Foundation in collaboration with the National Road Safety Council and funded by the FIA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the world governing body for motorsport. The NHWC teamed up with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) who demonstrated their support towards motorcycle safety through their collaborative efforts to promote helmet safety education and supported the coalition’s helmet distribution.

Ms Allen highlighted the alarming statistics of motorcycle-related deaths, noting that young Jamaican men aged 19 to 29 are the most affected demographic. “We are losing them at an alarming rate to motorcycle crashes,” she stated, emphasising the ripple effects on families, communities, and the nation’s workforce. 

Manchester, historically one of the parishes with high motorcycle fatalities, has seen significant progress in reducing such incidents, but Ms Allen reminded the gathering that “one fatality is one too many.” 

She attributed many road crashes to poor decision-making, such as speeding, failing to wear helmets, and neglecting vehicle maintenance. “Road crashes are rarely accidental,” Miss Allen noted. “They result from decisions—conscious or subconscious—that put lives at risk.” 

Ms Allen also detailed the work of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition, stressing the importance of accessible, certified helmets and inclusive training for motorcycle riders. “We have to create an environment that ensures compliance with safety standards, from legislation to infrastructure and education,” she said. 

Dr Kevin Blake, Commissioner of Police, who led the convoy of just over 50 bikers from Ferry, St Catherine to Manchester at a crash hotspot across from the Mandeville Regional Hospital, noted the grim reality of road traffic fatalities despite some progress.

“While we’ve seen a slight 13 per cent reduction in road deaths compared to last year, the numbers are still alarmingly high, with 320 lives lost so far this year,” he said.  Dr Blake emphasised that more than 30 per cent of road fatalities involve motorcycles, with about 90 per cent of those victims not wearing helmets.

Custos of Manchester, Lt Col Garfield Green, echoed the sentiment, urging motorcyclists to prioritise safety. “Every crash is one too many. Helmets save lives, not just for the rider but for families and communities,” he stated.

The event also included the distribution of certified helmets and educational sessions on safe riding practices.

Lt Col  Custos Green said that while Manchester recorded lower motorcycle crash rates since the year started, there have been dangerous trends such as drag racing and stunt driving on its major roads, often resulting in crashes. He called for motorcyclists to avoid these high-risk behaviours and adhere to traffic laws.

The gathering also honoured the memory of those who have died in road crashes, offering support to bereaved families. “Pause to remember those who have gone. Support those who are still here. And act to educate and encourage safety so we can bring fatalities down to zero,” Ms Allen encouraged persons.   

The National Helmet Wearing Coalition is a public-private partnership comprising the JN Foundation, which is coordinating the project, the National Road Safety Council, the Government, as well as the police, transportation associations, advocacy groups, academia, parish development committees and international organisations. The initiative is targeted at raising awareness about motorcycle helmet safety and promoting the use of certified helmets through regulation and behaviour change.

Driven by a passion for aviation and a love for tackling complex processes, JN Scholar, Khalil Mair sees his recent academic success as a launching pad to his dream of one day having a high-flying military career.

The 2024 JN Foundation PEP scholar for St Andrew, said he is looking to become a military pilot, a profession that requires a blend of both intellect and adeptness while on the frontline of defence and national security.

“I’ve been fascinated with planes and flying from I was very young- around age five,” the Dunrobin Primary past-student shared.

Khalil, now a first former at Campion College in St Andrew, said he has started attending meetings of the aeronautics club at his new school, to broaden his knowledge of aviation and connect with others who share a common interest.

“So far we’ve only had one meeting and it was really interesting because I learned things that I never knew before and that information will also help me when I get to third form and start doing subjects like physics,” he said.

The ‘Campionite’ said he enjoys mathematics, the sciences and French. He also enjoys running.

“In primary school during grade five, our coach decided to start a track team because there wasn’t one there and I was really interested, so I joined and trained for a while. It was really challenging and hard, but it was something that I really liked, and I think I can excel in it and be good in it if I practice more. I have already started the track programme at Campion,” he said. 

Khalil was among 37 scholarship recipients who were recognised for their PEP achievements at the JN Foundation PEP Scholarship awards reception held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston on October 6. His outstanding performance in the Primary Exit Profile, known in short as PEP, led to his selection as the JN Scholar for St Andrew, and he was awarded a five-year scholarship.

“I was very excited, and I felt very proud of myself that I was able to get it and also that I was the one who got the highest score out of all the scholars in the room. The scholarship will really help my father and my mother with my educational expenses,” he shared.

Courtney Mair, Khalil’s father, said both he and Khalil’s mother are grateful to the JN Foundation for providing the scholarship, which will also serve as a start for their son’s college fund.

Mr Mair, who is an entrepreneur and Kingston College old boy, said his son, the youngest of his three children, has always been doing well, earning the top boy spot in every grade at Dunrobin Primary. He also has two daughters who he said adores their little brother.

“He just keeps on excelling and when I saw he passed for Campion, I cried because I know what it takes to go to Campion. I’ve heard stories, so I knew he did exceptionally well,” Mr Mair said adding that “he loves school and even when it rains or he’s sick, he wants to go and I don’t think it’s to play.”

He said going forward he will be encouraging his son to read more and give less attention to his phone. As for Khalil’s career goal to be a fighter pilot, Mr Mair said he supports it.

“I really encourage him to go after what he wants and if he changes his mind, so be it because we know things can change after a while. But that’s what he wants and whatever support we can provide him, we will do whatever it takes to get it to him,” he said.

Expressing a similar sentiment, Khalil’s mother, Tracey-Ann Hendricks, an Assistant Teacher at Rainbow Land Nursery School in Kingston, said she’s also proud of her son’s accomplishments and is looking forward to him building on his academic successes and going after his interests.

“Campion was his first choice and when he passed, I said ‘Yay!’ because I had actually written it down that I wanted him to pass for Campion. When I got the call that he was also selected for a JN Foundation scholarship, I was shocked but excited and proud at the same time, and I said this is a really big thing for him because it will help him out so much with school,” she said.

“He’s a very smart, fun loving and kind person. Khalil loves to do his work and does not like anyone interfering in his work. He will definitely work hard for what he wants,” she added.

Financial education consultant at the JN Foundation, Rose Miller, says managing personal finances has become more crucial than ever given the existing financial environment. According to recent media reports quoting a report by the Bank of Jamaica, more Jamaicans are falling behind on their regular monthly payments on loans.

The reports noted that past-due loans, which are loans on which the borrower has made no payment between 30 and 89 days, rose 32.1 per cent at deposit-taking institutions as at the end of fiscal year ending March 2024, over the previous year ending March 2023.

Pointing to the various common forms of debt people carry, including credit card debt, student loans, consumer loans and mortgages, Mrs Miller advises that persons overwhelmed by debt should follow these five steps to help them regain control of their financial health.

1. Assess Your Current Debts – Before you can tackle debt, you need a clear picture of what you owe. Start by listing all debts, credit cards, personal and student loans, and any other loans, including any ad hoc or informal loans. It’s important to note the balance on each, interest rates, if applicable and minimum monthly payments for each debt.  The purpose is to get a good understanding of how much you owe.
2. Create a Repayment Plan – Understanding your debt landscape will enable you to take the next step, which is to develop a repayment plan. This involves deciding how much you can realistically pay toward your debt each month; the best way to achieve this figure is to create a budget. One popular debt management strategy is to allocate extra funds toward clearing the debt with the highest interest rate first (the “debt avalanche” method), or putting these extra funds towards clearing the smallest debt first (the “debt snowball” method). Both methods have their benefits: the avalanche method saves more on interest, while the snowball method can provide psychological wins by eliminating smaller debts quickly.
3. Negotiate with Creditors – If you’re struggling to keep up with payments, it’s worth reaching out to your creditors to negotiate better terms. Many lenders are open to offering reduced interest rates, extended repayment periods, or even settling for a lower amount than the original debt. This can make monthly payments more manageable and prevent accounts from going into default, a situation that would adversely affect your creditworthiness.
4. Consider Consolidating Your Loans – Consolidating your debts by rolling them into a single loan will simplify repayment and enable the debtor to gradually regain control of their finances and improve their financial well-being. Almost all deposit-taking institutions offer a consolidated loan. Shop around to identify the one that will provide you with the best terms and conditions.
5. Build an Emergency Fund – Be intentional about not getting into further debt.  Establishing an emergency fund can assist in this regard.  This will enable you to take care of some emergencies without the need for additional loans. 

Effectively managing debt takes discipline and grit but the benefits, such as preserving your creditworthiness, enjoying peace-of-mind, physical and psychological wellbeing, plus the prospect of financial security, make the sacrifice worthwhile.