Young persons between the ages of ten and 20 are encouraged to begin submitting applications for the 2016 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.

Minister for Education and Culture, Honourable Myron V. Walwyn said, “The Ministry recognises the extraordinary promise among the young people of the Virgin Islands. This programme aims to help prepare our young Virgin Islanders for success through opportunities to enhance their skills and their craft through training, exposure, and mentorship.”

Two young persons from each category will be given financial support up to but not exceeding eight thousand dollars ($8,000.00) to attend and participate in substantive training and enrichment experiences during the summer vacation.

Applications will be accepted until March 25 and must be submitted to the Ministry of Education and Culture with the reference “Emerging Fellow Awards”, addressed to the attention of Assistant Secretary and Desk Officer, Ms. Lorna Stevens.

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 from March 30, and announce the recipients by April 8.

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 468-3701 extension 3358 or email llstevens@gov.vg or email Education Officer Mr. Arthur Selwood at ArthurSelwood@gov.vg.