Emerging Scholars Scholarship & Bursary Program
The Emerging Scholars Scholarship and Bursary Program (ESSB)
About ESSB
The ESSB program was created to empower promising students from underserved backgrounds by providing financial support, mentorship, and opportunities for upward social mobility.
For the 2025-26 academic year, scholarship and bursary awards will vary from $25,000 - $100,000 Jamaican dollars based on merit and financial need. A total of six (6) awards will be disbursed for the 2025-26 academic year.
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Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
Program Eligibility
Residency Requirement
Applicants must reside in Trench Town, Kingston, Jamaica for a MINIMUM of three (3) years
Age Criteria
Eligible individuals are between the ages of 10-35.
Enrollment Requirement
Applicants must be enrolled in a secondary or tertiary institution.
Community Involvement
Participation in school or community-based extracurricular activities is STRONGLY encouraged but not mandatory
Required Documents
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Application form (Click to Download)
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Proof of address (Click to Download)
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Most recent school report (Tertiary applicants: Please upload your most recent transcript or college acceptance letter)
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Proof of Extracurricular/Community Involvement (Click to Download)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I show proof of address?
Complete the address verification form provided under the "required documents" OR upload your government ID card
Can I upload my supporting documents after the application deadline?
All applicants must submit their completed application form and all supporting documents on or before the June 30, 2025 deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
At which institutions are these scholarships/bursaries tenable?
Any accredited secondary or tertiary institution in Jamaica, including vocational and skills training institutions such as HEART
Do I have to be involved in extracurricular/community based activity to be eligible?
Your application will still be considered if you do not currently participate in any extracurricular or community activities, however extracurricular participation is strongly encouraged
How long do I have to live in Trench Town to be eligible?
A minimum of three (3) years
When will awards be announced?
Late August 2025
How will awards be disbursed?
Awards will be paid directly to the institution of the award recipients
What community-based activities are eligible?
You may participate in any of the following: Police youth club, any community outreach youth group or program, sports, church based activities
About ESSB Founder
Born and raised in Trench Town, Kingston, Jamaica, Dr. Tashanna Walker-Valentine’s life and work are a testament to her unwavering love for her community and her deep-seated belief in its potential for transformational change. Her research and advocacy are not just academic pursuits; they are acts of service, inspired by the resilience and spirit of the people of Trench Town. Guided by her passion for justice and equity, she has forged meaningful partnerships with grassroots organizations and global entities to tackle the social and economic disparities that weigh heaviest on marginalized communities. Through her tireless efforts, she continues to light the path toward a brighter, more equitable future for all.