Eight Students Receive Rotary Sunrise Scholarships
Eight students have been awarded scholarships through the Rotary Club of Belize Sunrise and Puma Energy, continuing a seven-year partnership aimed at helping students pursue their education.
About 15 students applied for the scholarships this year. The recipients were recognised during a ceremony where Rotary and Puma representatives encouraged them to stay focused on their education and make the most of the opportunity.
“This scholarship is not only a reward for what you have already accomplished. It is an investment in what we know you are capable of achieving,” said Rotary’s past president, Adelaide Sabido.
The scholarships provide more than financial assistance for school fees and supplies. Rotary President Maynor Larrieu said recipients’ progress is monitored throughout the year, with those who need additional help able to receive tutoring in subjects such as mathematics and English, as well as support for their mental wellness.
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Among this year’s recipients is Ari Salano of Anglican Cathedral College, who said receiving the scholarship would push him to work harder and pursue his goals. He also said the assistance would help ease some of the financial pressure on his family.
Mitchaelyn Fuller, a student of St. Catherine’s Academy who hopes to become a doctor, said the scholarship would help her continue her education while providing relief for her mother, who has to manage school expenses and other bills.
Puma Energy representative Freddie said the company has partnered with Rotary Sunrise on the scholarship programme for seven years, with the collaboration focused on education and preparing students to become future leaders.
“To our returning scholarship recipients and our eight new high school scholarship recipients, congratulations,” Freddie said. “You were chosen because of your talents, drive, and potential.”
Larrieu said the programme has evolved as students’ needs change, particularly as more students benefit from free education. Rotary is therefore looking at other areas where it can complement that assistance, including extracurricular activities and other educational needs.
The scholarship programme also continues to support students who received assistance in previous years, with some who started in primary school now progressing into high school. Larrieu said Rotary continues to adjust its support as students move through their education, to help them succeed and become community leaders.
Sabido encouraged the recipients to make the most of the opportunity and, one day, use their success to help others. “One day, you will be in a position to open a door for someone else. When that day comes, open it wide.”