Forty students of the Women’s Centre are now better able to navigate social settings and money matters, courtesy of the Scotiabank Jamaica Foundation. 

The young ladies, who hailed from the Centre’s Westmoreland, St. Ann, and St. James campuses, were special guests at an International Women’s Month luncheon hosted by the Foundation. The event brought participants together for a day of learning, inspiration, and personal development.

The initiative formed part of the Foundation’s continued philanthropic focus on western Jamaica following the impact of Hurricane Melissa and was designed to equip participants with practical tools for both personal and financial growth.

The programme featured an engaging financial literacy session led by Customer Service Officer at Scotiabank, Ashley-Rae Barrett, where participants were guided through budgeting, saving, and making informed financial decisions. This was complemented by a session on social graces and etiquette facilitated by Image Consultant Althea Laing, who also shared empowering and inspirational words with the young women.

Yanique Forbes-Patrick, Regional Director, Caribbean Corporate Affairs at Scotiabank, emphasised the importance of investing in young women: “At Scotiabank, we believe that empowerment begins with access – access to knowledge, opportunities, and the right support systems. Through initiatives like this one, we are not only sharing financial tools but also helping these young women to build confidence, independence, and a vision for their future.”

In addition to the knowledge imparted, each participant received a book voucher valued at $5,000 to support their continued education and self-development.

Rackeisha Dunn, Centre Manager at the Women’s Centre’s St. Ann location, welcomed the initiative, highlighting its meaningful impact: “This session has been truly transformative for our young ladies. Beyond the practical lessons in financial literacy and etiquette, it has given them a renewed sense of confidence and self-worth. Opportunities like this remind them that they are capable of achieving great things, and that there are organizations willing to invest in their future.”

Scotiabank Foundation’s International Women’s Month luncheon was hosted at Hotel Grand A View on March 20, 2026, under the theme Give to Gain.