The Desnoes & Geddes (D&G) Foundation has once again demonstrated its support for youth development and academic empowerment by donating $4.5 million to the Jamaica Observer Food Awards Scholarships.

During the signing of the three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the partnership last Friday (June 16), Dianne Ashton Smith, director of the D&G Foundation, emphasised the importance of education in unlocking the limitless capabilities of Jamaicans.

Smith stated, “Education is the spark that ignites potential. Like the Jamaica Observer Food Awards, the D&G Foundation believes in nurturing brilliance and empowering dreams. This scholarship program is a testament to our unwavering commitment to illuminating the path to knowledge and successful careers for a new cadre of talent.”

Now in its 24th year, the Jamaica Observer Food Awards has been offering scholarships to final-year students at the University of Technology enrolled in the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. These scholarships aim to elevate the culinary industry and support students who are diligently training in this field.

Novia McDonald-Whyte, Chair of the Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards Committee, expressed her appreciation for the partnership with the D&G Foundation, she said, “These scholarships are offered to elevate the culinary industry and the students in need who are diligently training; there is a need, and I have seen that first-hand while lecturing at the institution.”

“A partnership with a corporate brand like the Desnoes & Geddes Foundation gives us hope. It gives us legs. It gives us power. It says to the next generation, we are here for you,” she continued.

McDonald-Whyte also highlighted the significance of international recognition and the positive impact it can have on Jamaica. She added, “We’ve taken the brand beyond Jamaica and made our mark within the Caribbean region, so we are always seeking to expand and make an even greater impact. We ought to remember that when our brilliant students graduate from Jamaica and perhaps join the international space, they talk and tell the story.”