The 2024 JCA Scholarship Program is now open for applications!
Please review application instructions carefully. Apply for the scholarship of your choice from available scholarships by clicking on the application links provided.
Application opening date: April 1, 2024
Application deadline: July 15, 2024 at 11:59 pm
The 22nd annual JCA Scholarship Awards Ceremony and Dinner will take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 6:00 pm. Save the date and stay tuned for ticket information!
Interested in donating to the Scholarship Program? We’d love your support!
Click here to donate and select “Scholarship Fund” from the Allocation list!
PROGRAM CONTACT
If you have questions about the program, please contact scholarships@jcaontario.org
PROGRAM PURPOSE
The purpose of the Scholarship Program is to recognize excellence and support access to post-secondary education for students of Caribbean and African heritage who are pursuing undergraduate studies at an Ontario college or university.
The Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) is a registered non-profit committed to identifying and responding to the needs of the Caribbean and African communities. This includes cultural programming, advocacy, education support and outreach on a range of issues. In 2002, the Scholarship Program was established to respond to the educational needs of these communities.
The minimum award value of each available scholarship is $1000 CAD.
The minimum value of awards noted as bursaries is $500 CAD.
Thank you to our wonderful donors who make these scholarships possible!
IMPORTANT DETAILS
If you have questions about the program, please contact scholarships@jcaontario.org
- Completed applications must be submitted via the JCA online application portal by 11:59 p.m. on July 15, 2024. Late applications will not be accepted.
- TO APPLY, PLEASE REVIEW THE FULL LIST OF AVAILABLE SCHOLARSHIPS BELOW AND AIM TO PICK ONE SCHOLARSHIP THAT BEST MATCHES YOUR STUDENT PROFILE.
- IF AN APPLICANT SUBMITS MORE THAN ONE APPLICATION/SUBMITS MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS, THEY WILL BE DISQUALIFIED.
- IF YOU ARE NOT SELECTED FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP TO WHICH YOU APPLIED, THE JCA SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE WILL DETERMINE IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION FOR OTHER AVAILABLE SCHOLARSHIPS, BASED ON YOUR APPLICATION/STUDENT PROFILE.
- TO APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP, CLICK THE LINK PROVIDED FOR THAT SCHOLARSHIP. YOU WILL BE TAKEN TO THE JCA ONLINE APPLICATION PORTAL WHERE YOU WILL NEED TO CREATE A USER LOG-IN. ONCE YOUR LOG-IN IS CREATED, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO PROCEED.
- ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION TO SUPPORT YOUR APPLICATION MUST BE UPLOADED INTO OUR APPLICATION PORTAL BEFORE YOU CAN SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION. THE APPLICATION FORM WILL PROVIDE INSTRUCTIONS.
- ONCE YOU SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION, YOU CANNOT GO BACK AND CHANGE IT. READ AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE SUBMITTING.
- Incomplete applications will not be accepted or reviewed. Please read the eligibility criteria and instructions to ensure that all requirements are met.
- Some scholarships have additional requirements – these are noted in their description. Please read scholarship descriptions carefully to ensure any additional requirements are met.
- Most scholarships are geared towards students entering/enrolled in their first year of studies. Some scholarships are also open to upper year students (e.g., second, third, fourth year). This information is noted as such in the scholarship description/application.
- Some scholarships are open to international students. This information is noted in the scholarship description/application. If this is not noted below, the scholarship is available only to domestic students (i.e., Canadian citizens or permanent residents).
- Applications for graduate and professional studies (e.g. master’s degrees, doctoral studies, law and medical school, etc.) are not eligible.
- Applications for study at universities or colleges outside of Ontario are not eligible.
- Previous scholarship recipients are not permitted to apply for scholarships in consecutive years (i.e., no back-to-back awards). A minimum of one academic year must pass before a recipient can apply for another JCA scholarship. Future applications may be regarded favourably if past recipients have volunteered with the JCA or given back to the organization in some way following their first award.
- No student will be permitted to apply for or win more than two scholarships over the course of their program of study.
- Only successful applicants will be notified about their application outcome. Notification will take place in mid-late August.
- If you have questions please contact scholarships@jcaontario.org
- PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR THE LIST OF AVAILABLE SCHOLARSHIPS AND THEIR APPLICATION LINKS.
SELECTION CRITERIA
A recipient will be selected for each scholarship based on the criteria below. Please review the sections on ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA and REQUIRED DOCUMENTS for more information.
- Academic achievement (transcript required; unofficial transcripts/grade summaries are accepted)
- Involvement in school and/or community leadership activities and volunteerism
- Financial need (financial statement required; see Eligibility Criteria section for more information)
- Applicant’s personal essay and any other essay/material that may be required for a particular scholarship
- Significant personal achievements beyond academic ability, which may include personal accomplishments in spite of adversity
- Two references demonstrating the applicant’s accomplishments
- Commitment to career goals and to giving back
The decisions of the JCA Scholarship Selection Committee and the Scholarship Donor are final.
AVAILABLE SCHOLARSHIPS
Dr. Ezra Nesbeth Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships
(Open to domestic students in upper years of study)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Dr. Ezra Nesbeth is a graduate of the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto with varied and extensive experience in community and health programs. He has completed post-doctoral studies in health science and psychopathology in the United States. He has worked as a consultant with UNESCO and the World Health Organization developing community health programs for various jurisdictions domestically and internationally. He was head of clinical training at the Clinical Institute, Addiction Research Foundation in Toronto, consultant at the Clark Institute of Psychiatry and Assistant Professor, Community Health at the University of Toronto. He is a strong advocate of self-help and educational programs within communities and the workplace. Dr. Nesbeth donates generously to the Afro-Canadian community and the JCA.
After donating $25,000 to the JCA in 2003 towards the establishment of this scholarship, he formed the Dr. Ezra Nesbeth Scholarship Foundation as a separate entity that would focus specifically on the education of Afro-Caribbean Canadian youth by providing them with one other source of assistance to help offset the increasing cost of post-secondary education. On occasion he personally provides post-graduate support to some students. He has since personally contributed in excess of $530,000 to this cause.
Applicants for the Dr. Ezra Nesbeth Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a college or university student studying Business, Technology, Computer Science or Health Science.
- Must have completed at least one (1) year of college or university in Canada (i.e., must be in second year or above).
- Should have high academic standing (minimum B average).
- Should demonstrate leadership ability.
- Must demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills.
- Should be involved in extracurricular activities within the university, African-Canadian community, or wider Canadian community.
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Should not be in receipt of more than one other award of equal or greater value in the current year.
- Must demonstrate economic need, a key selection criterion.
- Must have a good understanding of the importance of economic self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship to the success of African Canadians in the Greater Toronto Area, and elsewhere in Canada (an essay is required for this).
- May be required to complete an additional application form (if this is required applicants will be notified).
Bailey-Donaldson Nursing Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is sponsored by the late Daphne Bailey, Cynthia Donaldson, and Bernice Bailey, who between them, practiced nursing in Jamaican, England and Canada for many years. As longstanding members of the JCA, Bernice and Daphne have contributed greatly to the organization, particularly as members of the Women’s Committee.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, priority is given to applicants pursuing nursing education.
Black African Museum (BAM) STEM Scholarship
(Open to domestic and international first-year students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Black African Museum (BAM) is an affiliate entity of Visions in Green; a family owned and operated company run by CEO and Curator Angelita Elliott. Visions in Green specializes in providing authentic Cultural Arts, Entertainment and STEM programming through various activities, including exhibitions of African and Diaspora inventors, innovators, scientists, engineers, and trailblazers. The organization also offers the I Love STEM Selfie Center inspiring children, youth, students and the public in their dream career. Ms. Elliott is a business owner, curator, author and community activist who has worked and partnered with various organizations, groups and companies i.e. Toronto District School Board (TDSB), Peel District School Board (PDSB), Toronto Community Housing (TCH), Visions of Science Network for Learning (VoSNL) and others; organized or hosted events like the Toronto Visions in Green’s International Jerk & Jazz Festival 2005 & 2006, VoSNL Annual Science Symposium 1999-2009, Sherehekea Africa Presentations 2005 – 2020. Over its fifteen years, Visions in Green has worked with students, educators and event organizers in providing the best in STEM educational and authentic cultural programming. They have also created and provided jobs and volunteer opportunities for students and young adults in Toronto and the GTHA. Visions in Green is not a non-profit organization, however we make yearly donation to other organizations in the form of discounted or gifted presentations of our various educational, cultural exhibitions and presentations. We have given scholarships to other organizations and are pleased to partner with the JCA to start our own.
This scholarship is open to first year and upper year students, and to domestic and international students. Priority is given to STEM students. In addition to standard eligibility criteria, an additional essay is required which demonstrates a good understanding of the importance of STEM to the long-term success and survival of the African Diaspora, and the importance and impact of their chosen educational and career endeavours.
Buchanan Family Scholarship
(Open to domestic first-year students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Sponsored by Stacy-Ann Buchanan and Kenneth Buchanan, the Buchanan family strongly believe that education is an important factor in the further development of their community.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, this award is given to a student entering their first year of post-secondary education in a liberal arts or fine arts program. Selection criteria include the recipient demonstrating financial need and having an excellent academic record.
Campbell Family Bursary
For SMTP Students Only
Audrey Campbell is a Past President of the Jamaican Canadian Association and has donated this bursary on behalf of her parents, Edgar and Enid, for a student from the JCA Saturday Morning Tutorial Program. Growing up in Canada afforded her the educational opportunities that her parents did not have growing up in Jamaica. Ms. Campbell is a graduate of Ryerson University. She has over 15 years of corporate sales experience and started her career with a major marketing and promotional company. She was also an entrepreneur and owned and operated Island Kitchen, Inc. for four years. Ms. Campbell and partners applied for and received a grant from the government for a start-up food company, marketing and selling pre-marinated jerk chicken to major supermarkets and restaurants in Ontario. She and her family realize that education gives you the foundation and the confidence to seek out the opportunities that life offers.
Carole and John Fowles Scholarship
(Open to domestic and international students in any year of study)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
John and Carole Fowles moved to Canada with their young family just over 50 years ago from Carole’s home country of Jamaica, where both John and Carole were teachers at St. Elizabeth Parish’s Munro College. For many years, Carole was a well-respected medical social worker in Durham Region. Even now, she continues to provide palliative support for members of their retirement community. Carole is a recipient of the June Callwood Award for volunteer service and has been recognized both locally and by the Province of Ontario for service to her community. John was the Ontario Science Centre’s Director of Education when he retired after a 20-year career. He is a recipient of both the June Callwood Award for volunteer service and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee medal. In 1991, John and Carole were part of a team that founded the Durham Region Hospice, an organization committed to providing support to individuals facing critical illness and death. The Carole and John Fowles scholarship award was established by their children in honour of, and as a tribute to, their parents and their lifelong dedication to education and service to their communities.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, priority for this scholarship is given to a female student entering their first year of post-secondary education. This award is open to first year and upper year students, and to domestic and international students.
CISG Your Personal Purpose Scholarship
For JCA-CISG Group Members Only
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
The JCA Caribbean International Student Group (JCA-CISG), in partnership with the JCA, awards this scholarship to Caribbean international students in any year of study who have demonstrated community involvement/leadership, academic performance, and financial need. This scholarship is open only to students who are members of the JCA-CISG group.
Dr. Gervan Fearon Scholarships
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown College, has a strong professional background in post-secondary education. Prior to being President and Vice-Chancellor at Brock University (2017-2021) and Brandon University (2014-2017), he held numerous progressive roles in post-secondary education, including Dean of the G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education at Ryerson University; Associate Dean at York University’s Atkinson Faculty of Liberal and Professional Studies; Visiting Scholar at the University of Washington; and as an Associate Professor at York University. Dr. Fearon also has a strong teaching and research record.
His career also included serving as the Executive Assistant to the Deputy Minister at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and a Senior Analyst at the Treasury Board, Ontario Ministry of Finance. He has served on numerous community boards, including Ontario Trillium Foundation, Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council, United Way Niagara, Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, and the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto. He was also Co-Chair of the Niagara Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Planning Committee, Chair of the Budget and Audit Committee of Council of Ontario Universities, and President of Tropicana Community Services. Dr. Fearon is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013), The Michaëlle Jean Foundation Influencer Award (2017), The University of the West Indies Vice-Chancellor’s Award (2020) and several other awards of recognition.
Dr. Fearon is passionate about education and the transformative opportunities it holds for individuals and communities.
Dr. Lancelot Brown Dental Scholarships
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Dr. Lancelot A. Brown has been in private practice since 1992, with a particular interest in cosmetic and implant dentistry as well as dentistry for children. Born in Montreal to Jamaican parents, he graduated from McGill University and served in the military in the Canadian Forces Dental Services (1984-1992), where he was appointed the officer-in-charge of the Royal Military College Dental Clinic from 1990-1992. He held the rank of Captain from 1989-1992. Dr. Brown has been a scholarship sponsor with the JCA since 2004. He remains committed to community involvement by organizing food, toy and book drives in his office and participating in 5K and 10K runs. Dr. Brown also sponsors a scholarship through the Association of Black Law Enforcers (ABLE) and supports his alma mater, McGill University, by funding a dental operatory in their Undergraduate Teaching Clinic. Since 2010, Dr. Brown has been involved with the Project for the Advancement of Childhood Education (PACE Canada), sponsoring two basic schools in Westmoreland, Jamaica.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, priority for this scholarship is given to applicants pursuing dental studies (i.e., dentistry, dental hygiene, dental assistant). Preference is also given to students with exceptional aptitude in the health sciences and visual arts.
Dudley Laws Memorial Scholarships
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
These scholarships are sponsored in memory of the late Dudley Laws, a civil rights activist and executive director of the Black Action Defence Committee (BADC). A welder and mechanic by trade, he worked at Standard Engineering Works until he emigrated to the United Kingdom in 1955 and became involved in defending the rights of the West Indian community. He influenced the development and launch of the Somerleyton and Geneva Road Association in Brixton and also joined the Standing Conference of the West Indies and the St. John’s Inter-Racial Club. In 1965, he relocated to Toronto, where he worked as a welder and taxi driver. He joined the Universal African Improvement Association, a Garveyite organization. Laws became prominent in the 1970s and 1980s as a critic of the then Metropolitan Toronto Police Force, due to a number of young black men being shot by police constables, as well as other allegations of racist practices against the police. He was also a prominent advocate for immigrants and refugees, and worked as an immigration consultant in the 1990s. In 1988, he founded BADC following the police shooting of Lester Donaldson.
There are four scholarships in total:
- Dudley Laws Black Action Defence Committee Scholarship, with the generous support of Mr. B. Denham Jolly, which gives preference to studies in social justice or the trades
- Dudley Laws Humber College Scholarship is provided by the Equity Department and is available only to students of Humber College, which gives preference to studies in social justice or the trades
- Dudley Laws Henry’s Records Scholarships, which gives preference to studies related to music
- Dudley Laws Dorothy Graham Scholarship, which gives preference to studies in nursing
For all four scholarships, in addition to standard eligibility criteria, preference is given to applicants enrolled in studies as noted above.
Errol Anthony Grant, Sr. Memorial Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Errol (Beast) Anthony Grant, Sr. was a sports coach, activist and Rastafarian man. He developed his love for sports and the outdoors growing up in St. Mary, Jamaica. He immigrated to Canada where he continued his schooling, graduating from Humber College with a diploma in Electrical Repairs. Throughout his life, Errol was involved in sports and became so well-known for his coaching skills, that he was invited to coach various teams in Toronto. Errol then became involved in his children’s sports team. He understood the importance of using sports to help keep youth off the streets, teach them life skills and demonstrate through his actions the importance of giving back to the community. He was also instrumental in the development of the Malvern Men’s Sunday Soccer League, where he shared his knowledge and techniques as a coach and player.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, preference is given to students who demonstrate Black community involvement/leadership, with a focus on social justice.
Eva Smith Scholarship
This scholarship was named in honor of the late Eva Smith, a tireless community worker who dedicated her life to youth concerns, women’s rights, immigration issues, education and community empowerment.
Sponsored by the Eva Smith Achievement Association, this scholarship was awarded to an African-Canadian student with priority given to single parents and those in the justice system, in addition to standard eligibility criteria.
Fay Conville Memorial Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is donated in memory of the late Fay Conville. Fay was a devoted member and builder of the JCA for more than 40 years. She was a dedicated volunteer, especially with the Scholarship Committee and the Saturday Morning Tutorial Program. Fay Conville is sadly missed by the JCA and wider community.
Friends of JCA Scholarship
(Open to first-year international students from Jamaica)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is sponsored by the Friends of the JCA for an international student from Jamaica.
The mission of the Friends of the JCA is to support programs and projects within the JCA and in Jamaica. The members are Owen Dunbar a former JCA Building Committee Chair, Glenford Gordon a member of various JCA committees, Dr. Sylvanus Thompson, a former JCA Vice-President and Education Committee Chair, and Herrol Mattocks, JCA Building Committee Chair and a longtime member and volunteer.
Grace Kennedy Ltd. Canada Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic and international students of Jamaican descent)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
The GraceKennedy Group is one of the Caribbean’s largest and most dynamic corporate entities with a network of companies located across the Caribbean, North and Central America and the United Kingdom. Grace has been providing authentic Caribbean flavours to Canadian homes for over 30 years.
Grace Foods Canada Inc. believes in giving back and helping to build the communities in which it operates its business. Grace’s contributions provide assistance in a range of areas including hunger alleviation, health, education and community outreach.
In addition to standard eligibility critera, the Grace Foods Canada Inc. Scholarship is awarded to students of Jamaican descent.
Herma Buchanan Memorial Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic and international students of Jamaican descent)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is in memory of Herma Elaine Buchanan. She was an entrepreneur who dedicated her life to the clothing and fashion industry. She worked for a few fashion houses in Jamaica before establishing her own business. She was a volunteer in the community and an ardent Christian who served her church and other organizations well. Sadly, she passed away December 7, 2021 after a short illness with cancer. To honour her memory, preference will be given to students who are studying in the field of fashion designing, education and nursing. Herma’s two grandchildren were recipients of scholarships through the JCA and the family feels it is only fitting for us to establish this scholarship in her memory.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, this scholarship is only open to applicants pursuing studies in the fields of fashion, nursing or education.
Hugh and Ilene Lawson Charitable Organization (HILCO) Scholarships
(Open to first-year domestic and international students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
The Hugh and Ilene Lawson Charitable Organization was established with the stated mission of creating expansive, and inclusive educational opportunities for young men and women, that do not have the financial resources to pursue their higher educational aspirations.
Humber College Scholarships
(Open to first-year domestic Humber College students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
As one of Canada’s leading educational institutions, Humber College supports its students through scholarships and bursaries. Humber, a member of Polytechnics Canada, is committed to student success through excellence in teaching and learning. Humber’s broad range of career-focused programs includes apprenticeships, certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and post graduate certificates. With more than 150 programs to choose from, Humber’s 20,000 full-time students and 55,000 part-time students have the flexibility to customize their educational path. Humber students learn from award-winning faculty in state of the art labs and classrooms that simulate working environments. More than 90% of Humber graduates are employed within six months of completing studies.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, this scholarship is offered to a Humber College first year student who exemplifies community leadership and maintains a high academic standing.
Ivan Dawns Scholarship
(Open to domestic students in any year of study)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Ivan Dawns is the First Black Business Representative in Canada for the International Union of Painters & Allied Trades (IUPAT). Ivan has been a member for over 20 years as a Drywall Finisher/Plasterer. He is currently the Political Director, a member of the Local Apprentice Committee at the Interior Finishing Systems Training Centre (IFSTC) and the Co-chair for the African American Community Organizing for Real Economics (AACORE) Committee, where he is tasked with the job of finding how the union can better serve Black members, recruiting and retaining Black youth and identifying programs in communities that need assistance. In addition to establishing this scholarship, Ivan has been a longtime friend and supporter of the JCA, including supporting improvement and renovation efforts of the Jamaican Canadian Centre.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, this scholarship is geared towards students who are pursuing a career in the trades.
JCA B. Denham Jolly Scholarship
(Open to international students in any year of study)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
The B. Denham Jolly Scholarship recognizes the contributions and achievements of Mr. Jolly, including being the President and CEO of Milestone Communications and the founder of FLOW 93.5 FM, Canada’s first Black-owned broadcasting company and radio station, respectively. In 2019, he made the single largest individual donation ever received by the JCA when he paid off the organization’s mortgage and has donated generously to many causes. Born in Green Island, Jamaica, he studied at the University of Guelph, Dalhousie University and McGill University, from which he graduated with a degree in science. Mr. Jolly was appointed to the Order of Canada in November 2020 for his contributions to the promotion of equity and opportunity for the Black community in the Greater Toronto Area.
JCA Founding President’s Scholarship
The JCA Founding President’s Scholarship was provided by Professor Emeritus Roy G. Williams. He is one of the founders of the JCA and served as its first president (1962-1966). Twenty years later, intermingled with his academic career, Professor Williams again served as president of the JCA (1984-1989). This was a period of rebirth and revival for the JCA and culminated in the acquisition of its headquarters building on Dupont Street, Toronto. Professor Williams was appointed as the first Black person to serve on The Toronto Police Services Board. In 2013-2014 he was the JCA’s point person in the formation and incorporation of the Caribbean African Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN). He is the author of The Jamaican Canadian Association (1962-2012).
Professor Williams is the recipient of many awards that include the Harry Jerome Award, the JCA Trailblazer Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Currently he is a member of the Board of the Black Legal Action Clinic.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, this scholarship was awarded to domestic students (i.e. Canadian citizen or permanent resident) enrolled in university in any year of study (i.e. first through fourth year), and who are Jamaican or of Jamaican parentage.
JCA Past Presidents’ Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is donated by JCA Past Presidents Roy Williams, Herman Stewart, Nehemiah Bailey, Kamala-Jean Gopie and Adaoma Patterson.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, this award is intended for domestic students who are relatives of JCA members or for students who have volunteered or participated actively in the JCA.
Judith Spencer Memorial Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Judith Ann Spencer was born in Kingston, Jamaica. She immigrated to Toronto, Canada in 1973. Judith was a graduate of St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College in Kingston, and continued her academic work by completing bachelor’s and master’s degrees at York University. Judith gained employment at St. Roch Catholic School in Toronto. She was the consummate teacher who strived to get the best out of her students. Judith was a student advocate; there was never a student problem that was too small or large that she would not try to solve. She was a community-oriented human being. She volunteered with many community organizations. She devoted a lot of time to the JCA Education Committee, taught in the Saturday Morning Tutorial Program, and served as Secretary of the Scholarship Program Committee for many years.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, preference for this scholarship is given to students pursuing a career in education.
Luann Jones Covenant Funeral Homes Scholarship
Luann Jones is the first Black founder and director of a funeral home in Canada. As the owner of Covenant Funeral Homes in Scarborough, Ontario, Luann believes she was called to serve families and care for their loved ones during times of bereavement, and considers it a privilege to do so. She has worked in the industry for 22 years, graduating from Humber College’s Funeral Services Program in 1997. Luann is also a past JCA scholarship recipient and believes strongly in giving back to her community. She is pleased to be able to pay it forward as a donor in the Scholarship Awards Program.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, this scholarship recognized applicants pursuing studies in funeral services. Preference was also given to applicants who are single parents pursuing post-secondary education.
Marcia Brown Productions Scholarship
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Marcia is the Founder and Artistic Director of one of Canada’s and this province’s most vital theatre companies, Marcia Brown Productions. She is an acclaimed producer, writer, director and performer. As one of the top female actors in the Toronto’s Caribbean community Marcia is definitely no stranger to avid theatre goers. When Marcia decided to audition for the LTM Pantomime in Jamaica about two decades ago, she would never have imagined that what started out as a curiosity would turn out to be her greatest love, the theatre. Through her dedication and zest to learn, Marcia overcame all the odds of not being a drama school graduate to become a well-rounded and versatile thespian, and many would agree that she is now positioned as one of the most sought after actors in our community. Marcia has produced and performed in unforgettable plays such as Common Law, Wipe that Smile, Rosetta, Single Entry, Feminine Justice, Children Children, and Country Duppy. Marcia has worked with some of the very best actors in Jamaica, including the King of Comedy, Oliver Samuels, and her very close friend, mentor and Jamaica’s Queen of Theatre, Leonie Forbes.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, preference is given to applicants pursuing studies in the performing arts, media or a related field.
Mary Anne Chambers O.Ont., M.S.M., Hon LL.D. Scholarships
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Dr. Mary Anne Chambers is currently the Chancellor of the University of Guelph, its 10th since the University was established in 1964. She previously served as a Member of the External Advisory Board for U of G’s Institute of Development Studies.
A former Scotiabank Senior Vice-President and former Ontario Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities and Minister of Children and Youth Services, Mary Anne has served as Chair of the Board of United Way of Canada, Vice-Chair of the Governing Council of the University of Toronto, President of the Canadian Club of Toronto, Governor of the Air Cadet League of Canada, Vice-Chair of the Rouge Valley Health System, President of the Project for Advancement of Early Childhood Education (Canada), Vice-Chair of the Board of Cuso International and Member of the Boards of the University of Guelph, United Way of Toronto, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and YMCA Toronto. Mary Anne has also served as a Governor of Canada’s International Development Research Centre.
Mary Anne is currently a Senior Fellow at York University’s Glendon School of Public and International Affairs, as well as Chair of the Board of Grace Foods Canada Inc. She has also served as Director on the Boards of GraceKennedy Ltd. and the GraceKennedy Financial Group.
Mary Anne was named to the Order of Ontario in 2015 and is a recipient of the Governor General of Canada’s Meritorious Service Medal. She has been awarded the Degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, by the University of Toronto, York University, Lakehead University and the University of Guelph. Among her other awards are the Golden Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee Medals of Queen Elizabeth the Second, and a YWCA Toronto Woman of Distinction award.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, preference is given to applicants who are facing or have overcome significant personal hardship.
Ms. Letna Healing Hope Inc. Bursary
Letna Allen-Rowe was born in Clarendon, Jamaica. She migrated to Canada in 1993 and is an active community mobilizer, advocate and Jamaican Cultural Ambassador.
Letna received her high school diploma at Clarendon College in 1977 and was educated in Drama and Educational Theatre Arts at the Edna Manley College for the Performing Arts in Jamaica. She also attended the National Institute of Broadcasting, at York University and the Travel Training College of Canada. She is a thespian and a connoisseur of the arts in all forms, whether it’s dancing, singing, miming, poetry, acting, or Master of Ceremonies. She offers cultural workshops in schools that are interested in teaching children about their Caribbean folk heritage and culture.
In addition to her contributions to the arts, for nearly a decade, Letna has supported the cancer care program at Scarborough Health Network’s Centenary Hospital through the Ms. Letna Healing Hope Fundraising brunch and other initiatives.
Letna was pleased to be able to extend her philanthropy to the JCA Scholarship Program through the Ms. Letna Healing Hope Inc. Bursary, which was awarded to a student of the JCA’s Saturday Morning Tutorial Program.
Nadine Williams Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Nadine Williams is an award-winning poet, author and arts educator. She has published three collections of poetry, two children’s books and over twelve volumes of literature for Black History Month. These creations are a staple in the curricula of several schools in Canada in celebration of Black History. She is a regular presenter at schools across Canada, including local universities and was the distinguished guest speaker to the prestigious African Writers Club at the University of Vienna for Global African Month in May 2019.
She is the recipient of the York Regional Police Deeds Speak Award and has received parliamentary mention for significant contribution to Black History in Canada. A resident poet for the Caribbean Consular Corps, she is vested in mentoring the next generation of authors, writers and scholars. She is a Presidential Poet, having opened for Mrs. Michelle Obama, Canada’s Governor General as well as Prime Ministers of both Canada and Jamaica. She is also the sole proponent in the recognition and dedication of two recent significant events of the journey of Black Peoples in Canada: “The Enslavement of Africans in Canada” and “The West Indian Domestic Scheme”. These occurrences are now catalogued by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada and Parks Canada as historically significant Canadian events. This distinguished poet’s current project is to bring awareness to The UN’s International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD) through her Art installation project, “The Fabric of Our Being”. This body of work is the fusion of art and poetry.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, preference is given to applicants pursuing studies in the performing arts.
Nicolle Williams Financial Literacy Scholarship
(Open to domestic and international students in any year of study)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Nicolle Williams uses her personal experiences to coach and mentor today’s youth on how to live their best financial lives. Nicolle Williams has worked in the financial industry since 2003 and is proud of helping to assist many families and investors achieve their real estate goals.
As an advocate for financial literacy and the economic improvement of the Caribbean Canadian community both domestically and abroad, Nicolle has always believed in the importance of investment in the next generation through education.
Nicolle’s give back began in 2016 with her inaugural backpack drive that supported St. Benedict’s Primary School and Harbourview Primary both located in the Bull Bay Harbourview area. Through her backpack drive Nicolle, her family and volunteers distributed over 200 backpacks and supplies annually and it is in this spirit that Nicolle builds her new scholarship.
Nicolle believes in investment in youth and the Nicolle Williams Financial Literacy Scholarship looks to recognize some of the brightest minds of our society.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, preference for this scholarship is given to these areas of interest/study: finance, real estate, real estate investing, planning, mortgage financing, financial advisory or any other interests that have a root in finance.
Professor Erma Collins Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Professor Erma Collins, B.A., M.Ed., retired from George Brown College in 1998. Of her 32 years of service, 27 were as a Professor of English and five as Chairperson of the English and Liberal Studies Department at the St. James Campus, the first African Canadian to hold such a position. While at George Brown, Professor Collins also wrote Brush up Your English, a textbook for use by students in the Remedial English Lab.
Since retirement, Professor Collins has done stints on Ontario’s College and Education Relations Commission and on the Council for the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. A lifelong volunteer with various organizations, she has 16 community recognitions, including a Harry Jerome Award and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal. She has held many positions in the JCA, including that of Vice-President.
A firm believer in the power of education, she became a sponsor at the inauguration of these JCA scholarships in 2002. Starting in the 1990s, Professor Collins also sponsored scholarships through the Black Business and Professional Association and, later, through the Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association. In addition, through the Project for the Advancement of Childhood Education (PACE Canada), she supports Norwood Basic School in Jamaica.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, priority for this scholarship is given to applicants attending an Ontario college.
Raphaelita Walker Memorial Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is sponsored by longstanding JCA member Gifford Walker, in memory of the late Raphaelita Walker, who died in 2016. Raphaelita, affectionately known as “Aunt Raph” at the JCA, was also a longstanding member who worked as an RNA and practiced her expertise in caring full time for the elderly, while at the same time carrying out volunteer work as a Social Worker to those in need. Her humanitarian commitment and public relations endeavours were excellent, starting in Jamaica, England and then in Canada, mostly at the JCA, where she served on almost all volunteer committees.
Gifford is a graduate of the Mechanical Engineering Program of Kingston Technical High School. He also attended the City and Guilds of London Institute, where he obtained a first class in Metalwork. Gifford worked as a pipe fitter and welder with the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices for several years prior to his retirement in 1998. Both Raphaelita and Gifford have played active roles in various events at the JCA, including being Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus at the Annual Children’s Christmas Party.
Rosemarie Dolly Memorial Scholarship
(Open to domestic and international students in any year of study)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Rosemarie Dolly was a Jamaican educator and a trained Guidance Counsellor. She taught elementary education for over 20 years and was a school principal when she passed. Rosemarie was benevolent and always open to helping others learn and grow. She founded an evening institute to help adults complete high school level certifications and volunteered in various child and youth organizations. She passed away in January of 2014 and, to honour her memory, preference will be given to students in the field of education.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria and the preference for studies in education, this scholarship is open to both first year and upper year students.
Royal Senchi Design Award
(Open to first-year, second-year, domestic and international students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is sponsored by kydiaz design. In Akan, senchi means “to return”. As part of the Diaspora, one can draw much inspiration when returning to the continent based on its rich culture, ethnic diversity, complex history and beautiful landscapes. The Royal Senchi Resort in Ghana is impressive in its use of traditionally inspired architecture, design and art, which reflects our African history of building places and spaces to live.
In Ontario, many cities are undergoing major physical transformations. What will these cities look like in 5, 10 or 30 years? Where will you live? Where will your parents live? What will the buildings and public places around you look like? Who will design this? You!
This scholarship is open to applicants who are first or second year college/university students and who currently participate in the design of the space around them. Preference is given to students of architecture (building, interior or landscape). However, candidates from other design related fields such as web, graphic or fashion design will be considered. High school students may also be considered.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, applicants must:
- Submit a 200-400 word personal statement that outlines your interest in design and answers why design is important to you and why it is important to society.
- Submit a single creative piece: a hand drafted or digital drawing (or hybrid), a photograph, or a photograph of artwork or craftwork that strongly represents your design sensibility. It may include a 50 word description and should be in PDF or JPG format with a maximum size of 1 MB (1024 KB).
Rudolph Gibbs Memorial Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic and international students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Rudolph Gibbs, or Gibbo as he was affectionately known, was a longstanding member and volunteer at the JCA and supporter of many community causes. In addition to funding a JCA Scholarship for international students through the Friends of JCA, Rudolph supported the JCA as Building Committee Chair among many other efforts. This scholarship has been established in Rudolph’s memory by his spouse, Edith Brown, who has worked in the fields of cosmetology and healthcare. Edith has also volunteered at the JCA on numerous occasions. She has created this scholarship to help others strive for better.
This scholarship is open to first year students. In addition to standard eligibility criteria, priority is given to those in the healthcare field, but applicants from all programs of study are welcome to apply.
Safety Diva Canada Award
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Lee-Anne Lyon-Bartley is a first generation Canadian and child of Jamaican parents, Grace Carter-Henry Lyons and Leithland Lyon. Her mother is the leader and founder of the Heritage Singers Canada, established in 1977. She always took Lee-Anne and her brother (sometimes kicking and screaming) to many community functions and events, where she recalls seeing and interacting with so many examples of Black and Caribbean excellence. All of these positive influences helped Lee-Anne get where she is today. Through this award, Lee-Anne wants to continue serving the community that has given so much to her. She dedicates this award to her mother, The Heritage Singers Canada and her father, for his years of service in the Toronto Police Service.
Lee-Anne established this award to pay it forward to a student interested in pursuing a career in the safety profession. Lee-Anne has achieved one of the highest positions one could have as a safety professional and might be the very first Black safety professional in Canada to hold an Executive Vice President title for a large employer. She is currently Executive Vice President, Health, Safety, Environment and Quality at Horizon North Logistics (TSE: HNL), a leading integrated facilities management, workforce accommodations, forestry and modular building service provider. She holds a BASc from Ryerson in Occupational and Public Health, is a (Certified Registered Safety Professional (CRSP), a Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS), and is NEBOSH and IEMA certified. She prides herself in being passionate about safety and sharing her passion with others, including being a regular guest on Season 2 of the nationally televised Steven and Chris show on CBC highlighting simple safety tips at home. She was featured in the Institute for Work and Health’s 2016 annual report and volunteers with Workplace Safety Prevention Services on their Commercial Industrial Services Advisory Committee, with My Safe Work and Threads of Life, which are charities dedicated to health and safety awareness and empowerment. In addition to this, she currently teaches health and safety at Seneca College, previously taught at Humber and Keyano Colleges, and is a director at large for the Women in Occupational Health and Safety Society (WOHSS). In 2019, Dexterra was awarded Canada’s Safest Employer gold award for young worker safety and Lee-Anne was awarded the Women in EHS award from eCompliance. Connect with her on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/lee-anne-lyon-bartley-a9104247
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, priority is given to applicants pursuing studies in occupational health and safety, public health, the arts or science.
Sunbelle Realty Ltd. Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic and international students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Sunbelle Realty is a boutique real estate brokerage in Brampton owned by David and Prudence Betty who came to Canada in 2000 and are actively involved in the JCA.
Sunbelle Realty provides real estate services to individuals and companies looking to buy, sell or lease residential and commercial properties. We are staffed with experienced realtors who deliver superb service, second to none! When you choose Sunbelle you choose professionals who go the extra mile to empower you to make the right decision every time. Sunbelle’s principal owner and Broker of Record, David Betty, is a trained Economist, Accountant and Anti-money Laundering specialist with a wealth of exposure in Banking and Real Estate Foreclosures. David goes the distance in assisting his agents and clients to understand and arrive at tailored solutions. Sunbelle works with Appraisers, Home Inspectors, Bankers, Mortgage Brokers and Lawyers to achieve satisfactory results and hassle free closings. At Sunbelle our relationship goes beyond closing.
Our mission is to foster a culture of life-long partnerships, by providing services tailored to our customers’ needs. We inspire trust through dedication to honest, integrity and transparency.
In addition to standard eligibility requirements, priority will be given to applicants pursuing studies in Economics.
Tiffany Harris Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Tiffany Harris is a Chartered Professional Accountant who received a JCA scholarship in 2003 that helped to jump start her educational journey of excellence. Tiffany graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.
She currently holds the position of Senior Controller, Research Financial Operations for the Hospital for Sick Children. Prior to that, Tiffany worked as the Manager of Risk and Compliance for Sears Canada and as a Senior Accountant for Ernst and Young.
Aside from supporting education, Tiffany is passionate about health equity and currently serves as a Director for Flemingdon Health Centre. Previously, Tiffany was a Director and Treasurer for Jamaica 50 Celebration Inc. and The People Bridge Charitable Foundation.
Yolande Davidson Scholarship
(Open to domestic and international students in any year of study)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Yolande is a public policy leader who, over the course of her career, has worked in various Ontario government ministries (currently, Treasury Board Secretariat) and the City of Toronto. She is a former member of the JCA Board of Directors and has volunteered in youth-serving initiatives for over fifteen years. In addition to her volunteerism at the JCA, Yolande was an inaugural member of the Queen’s University Council on Anti-Racism and Equity and a volunteer in Associated Youth Services of Peel’s Youth Justice Program. She has been recognized with awards including the Peel Youth Justice Committee Volunteer of the Year, the JCA Women’s Committee’s Volunteer Award, and the JCA President’s Award. A believer in lifelong learning, Yolande is a graduate of Queen’s University and York University.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, this scholarship is open to both first year and upper year students.
York Regional Police Scholarship
(Open to first-year domestic students)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
This scholarship is donated by York Regional Police, in keeping with their motto, Deeds Speak. The force has been a longtime supporter of the JCA Scholarship Program, as one of the first donors that came on board in the early years.
In addition to standard eligibility criteria, preference for this award is given to applicants pursuing studies in policing, the justice sector, or a related field.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Successful candidates will be awarded only one scholarship of those available and MUST be able to participate in the Scholarship Awards Recognition Event held each September (see below).
All applicants for scholarships/bursaries:
- Must participate in the JCA’s Scholarships Awards Recognition Event to receive your award, if selected as a recipient. This is an in-person event. If public health protocols place restrictions on in-person gatherings, it is delivered online.
- Must provide proof of status in Canada.
- Domestic students of Caribbean/African background must provide proof of either Canadian citizenship or permanent residency (e.g. copy of birth certificate, passport, PR card).
- International students of Caribbean/African background must provide proof of student status in Canada (e.g. copy of study permit/visa).
- Must be enrolled as a full-time student at an Ontario university, college or other post-secondary institution. Proof of enrolment is required (e.g. acceptance letter; current course confirmation document).
- Must demonstrate your academic performance by providing a copy of your most recent transcript.
- If you are a graduating high school student, you must provide a copy of your most recent report card for the current semester or your final high school report card.
- If you are already enrolled in college or university, a copy of your most recent college or university transcript is required. Unofficial transcripts/grade summaries will be accepted – your name, the name of your school and the year of study must be visible. The Scholarship Committee reserves the right to ask for official verification later.
- Must demonstrate financial need by providing an Income and Expenses Statement for the upcoming school year. In addition, applicants can also provide details of their lived experiences in their essay if they choose. Download the Income and Expenses Statement Template here.
- Must demonstrate involvement and leadership in school and/or community activities.
- Must include a minimum two-page double-spaced essay that describes why you are applying for this scholarship, your academic goals, your career goals, any life experiences that you feel are relevant to your application and how you plan to pay it forward if you are selected for a scholarship. Please also provide information about your volunteer roles and/or leadership activities, whether at school or in your community. This should include how your volunteerism and leadership activities will help you achieve your goals.
- If you have experienced any hardships that have impacted your academic performance and/or life circumstances, you can provide these details in your essay.
- Must provide two reference letters that speak to your character, performance, potential as a student, leader, employee or volunteer. Letters of recommendation can be attached by applicants as part of their application package. See below for instructions.
- Must provide a digital photograph (JPEG or PNG format).
- Please note that these photographs become the property of the JCA and may be used for purposes related to the Scholarship Program specifically (e.g. announcing scholarship winners).
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AND REFERENCES
All mandatory documents are to be uploaded into the JCA application portal before you submit your application. Once you submit your application, you cannot go back and change it.
Mandatory documents that must be uploaded to your application package are:
- Proof of status in Canada
- Proof of enrolment in an Ontario post-secondary institution (e.g., current acceptance letter, copy of current enrolment document)
- Your two-page essay
- Students completing their final year of high school: a copy of the most recent high school report card or transcript
- Students already in university or college: a copy of your most recent transcript. Unofficial transcripts/grade summaries are accepted – your name and the name/logo of your school must be visible
- Income and expenses statement (download Income and Expenses Template here)
- Applicant photograph and applicant summary (instructions are provided in application form)
- Any required documents that may be specific to the scholarship you are applying for
Reference Letters:
Two reference letters are required (employment, school, or volunteer-related). Reference letters must contain contact information for your reference. The individuals giving you a reference can provide their reference letter to you directly so that you can upload the letter to your application form.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR APPLICATION!
JCA SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS 2015
