Young persons between the ages of 10 to 20 years are encouraged to submit applications for the 2017 Virgin Islands Emerging Fellow Awards.

The award is a grant administered by the Ministry of Education and Culture on an annual basis to young people who show exceptional promise in sports, the arts and/or academics.

Two young persons from each category will be exposed to top rated institutions in the world to sharpen their skills and will be given financial support up to but not exceeding eight thousand dollars ($8,000) to attend and participate in substantive training and enrichment experiences during the summer vacation.

Minister for Education and Culture, Honourable Myron V. Walwyn said the Emerging Fellow Award is an opportunity for young people to hone their skills and gain valuable experience as they get ready to take their places in society and help in the development of the Virgin Islands.

Minister Walwyn added, “This programme aims to help prepare young Virgin Islanders for success through opportunities to enhance their skills and their craft through training, exposure, and mentorship.”

March 24, 2017 is the deadline for submission of applications to the attention of Assistant Secretary and Desk Officer, Ms. Lorna Stevens at the Ministry of Education and Culture with the reference, “Emerging Fellow Awards.”

Applicants must also submit a short statement inclusive of a brief biography, two letters of recommendation, an overview of the proposed programme or activity, and proof of research and fees associated with said programme or activity.         

The application criteria will differ according to the area for which persons are applying. The areas are categorised under four broad headings including evidence of achievement, quality of proposed activity or programme, contribution to the community, along with the quality and breadth of recommendations.

The award committee will review submissions and announce the recipients by April 7.

For more information, or to obtain an electronic copy of the application, contact Ms. Lorna Stevens at the Ministry of Education and Culture via telephone 468-3358 or 468-3190, or via email at llstevens@gov.vg. Alternatively, persons can contact or email Education Officer, Mr. Arthur Selwood via email at ArthurSelwood@gov.vg.

Poster Design Credit: Alvin Bertie/GIS