The Supreme Ventures Foundation (SVF) continues to champion the cause of youth empowerment through its partnership with the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) with its ‘Ready for the Road’ initiative.

The collaboration supports a cohort of 20 tertiary-level scholars who are now former wards of the State. They were awarded full scholarships in 2021 as part of SVF’s 20th anniversary celebrations.

Chloleen Daley Muschett, corporate communications and PR manager at Supreme Ventures Limited, expressed the foundation’s commitment to a worthwhile initiative.

“The SVF is always seeking ways to enrich and empower our scholarship recipients beyond the financial support we provide. We know that young people are generally eager to start driving and we wanted to provide that experience. Additionally, we wanted to ensure that they acquire this skill in a safe and nurturing environment. This initiative reinforces what we have always instilled in them—that they should never limit themselves and their capabilities and remember that in everything they do, they are Supreme!” she exclaimed.

Born out of a desire to make a positive impact in the lives of children in State care, ‘Ready for the Road’ is designed to equip them with essential driving skills. Recipients under the SVF’s scholarship programme receive free driving lessons, comprehensive guidance on obtaining their learner’s permits, and support in securing their driver’s licences.

Sharing her thoughts on the programme’s impact, Jacqueline Anderson-Robinson, transitional living coordinator at the CPFSA, stated, “The programme has been incredibly beneficial for our youths. The support from SVF has provided opportunities for our youngsters who otherwise might not have had access to these lessons. As these youngsters navigate their way through life, it’s essential to guide, encourage, and mentor them so that they are able to attain and exceed all their goals.”

Several recipients have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to not only learn to drive but also to complete goals they had set for themselves.

Former ward of the State and SVF scholarship recipient, Joshua Gazader, recounted his ‘Ready For The Road’ experience: “I was very excited and grateful for this opportunity as I had one lesson before in 2021 but wasn’t able to do any other lessons”.

“Since then, I have anticipated continuing the process, so I am truly appreciative that the Supreme Ventures Foundation gave me the opportunity to not only start but secure my licence,” he added.