Students at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport are now reaping the benefits of scholarships provided by Olympian Brendon Rodney through his Rodney’s Life Beyond Sports Foundation.

In a grand launch event held on Tuesday (May 30) at the residence of the High Commissioner of Canada in St Andrew, three deserving students were awarded scholarships, marking the beginning of a promising partnership between the College and the Foundation.

Shantel Munroe, Selvin Stewart, and Toni-Ann Lindsay were the first recipients of the scholarships, which are open to second, third, and fourth-year students aged between 17 and 25.

To qualify, students must demonstrate a strong sports orientation, maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, and exhibit financial need. With a value of $250,000, these scholarships present a significant opportunity for full-time students at the institution from all programs.

Speaking at the launch, Denzil Wilks, general manager of the Sports Development Foundation, delivered a speech on behalf of Minister of Sport Olivia Grange emphasising the transformative power of the collaboration between the college and the foundation, stating, “This partnership is an example of how sport and education can transform lives.”

The speech also congratulated the scholarship recipients, recognising their unique skills, abilities, and passion for using sport to unify, empower, and transform lives. She expressed her anticipation of witnessing the students’ future impact on Jamaica and the world through their endeavors in sports and education.

Addressing the audience, Olympian Brendon Rodney shared the goal of the foundation, stating, “Our aim is to facilitate life beyond sport and giving back.” His Canadian background, coupled with his Jamaican heritage, has fueled his dedication to supporting students in their pursuit of using sport as a catalyst for personal and societal transformation.

Emina Tudakovic, Canadian High Commissioner to Jamaica, described the partnership as a “great example of Canada’s unwavering commitment to fostering excellence in sports and education.” The joint efforts of the foundation and the High Commission will provide valuable support to the students at GC Foster College.