TRELAWNY, Jamaica—At just 12 years old, Nickayla Jarrett has already achieved what many students twice her age can only dream of. The talented young scholar from Trelawny has been awarded the prestigious JN Foundation PEP scholarship, marking a pivotal milestone in her academic journey.
For Nickayla, this scholarship represents not just an academic accolade, but a personal triumph. “It feels like a dream come true,” she said with a bright smile. “When I heard the news, my family couldn’t contain their excitement. I’m the first person in my family to receive a scholarship like this, and it’s truly special.”
Her mother, Alecia Morgan-Jarrett, beams with pride as she reflects on her daughter’s achievement. “Nickayla is responsible, reliable, and passionate about everything she sets her mind to,” she said. “Her dedication and hard work have always been evident, so when she received the JN Foundation scholarship, it wasn’t a surprise to me.”
The former student of Hague Primary and Infant School, now a proud freshman at Westwood High School, earned an impressive 374.9 out of 400 in her Primary Exit Profile (PEP) exams, placing her at the top of her class. Nickayla’s focus and determination were key factors in securing this highly competitive scholarship.
While most students her age may still be deciding on future careers, Nickayla already has her sights set on an unconventional but passionate goal: becoming a fashion designer. “I’ve always loved fashion, and I want to learn from the best,” she said. “I dream of studying at the New York School of Design and one day owning my own fashion franchise.”
Her ambition doesn’t stop at the drawing board. Nickayla is also a mathematics enthusiast, always eager to solve problems and face new challenges. “I love math because it lets me figure out how things work,” she explained.
Nickayla’s former sixth-grade teacher, Shannon Anglin, describes her as a rare gem. “She’s a hard worker who tackles challenges head-on,” Anglin said. “She’s not only academically driven but also a well-rounded individual who is always ready to take on new challenges, whether it’s in class or extracurricular activities.”
Despite her heavy academic load, Nickayla has always made time for extracurricular activities, including dance, choir, and Girl Guides. Her current involvement in the News Society and Debate clubs at Westwood High School is a testament to her commitment to both her personal and academic growth.
“I believe in balance,” Nickayla said. “I try to manage my time so that I can focus on my studies, enjoy extracurricular activities, and still spend time with my family and friends.”
Grateful for the JN Foundation scholarship, Nickayla also acknowledges the support she receives from her family. “This scholarship really helps ease the financial burden on my mom, so we can focus on my education and not worry about money,” she shared. “I’m also very thankful for my grandfather, who stays with my brother and me after school while my mom is at work.”
In addition to her immediate family, Nickayla is deeply grateful to her teachers and her church community at Duncan’s New Testament Church of God, who have provided unwavering spiritual and emotional support. “I’m thankful for all the prayers and support from my church family,” she said. “And of course, I thank God for keeping me safe and guiding me every step of the way.”
Nickayla’s story is a shining example of the kind of students the JN Foundation aims to support—those who demonstrate excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a difference. As she embarks on her journey at Westwood High School and beyond, one thing is certain: Nickayla Jarrett’s future is as bright as her dreams.
The JN Foundation PEP scholarship program has been awarding scholarships to students who embody these qualities since 1983, helping countless young people in Jamaica reach their full potential.
