Sandals Foundation has partnered with the Caribbean Academy of Cosmetology and Trichology (CACT) to award its first scholarship in the beauty and wellness sector.

This scholarship initiative is part of the Foundation’s Women Helping Others Achieve (WHOA) programme, and is one of 40 sustainable projects being implemented throughout the region as part of Sandals Resorts’ 40^th-anniversary celebrations, in which tourism is being used to drive positive change.

This is the third year that Sandals has been awarding scholarships under its program,

The foundation says out of dozens of applications a 19-year-old name Jenique Pascal was selected as the recipient

Public Relations Officer at Sandals Foundation Natasha Burnett says at the Sandals Foundation, they believe that an empowered individual can shape their destiny.

“As a result, across the Caribbean, we are engaging community members in capacity-building exercises and training to ensure that they have the skills and tools needed to create and plan for secure and sustainable futures,” Burnett said.

Through this scholarship, the awardee will receive the requisite training and certification that will strengthen her position to gain employment in the field—curating an element of the special day for guests who choose to take their martial vows on this beautiful island

Kafi Samuels, Spa Manager at Sandals Grande Antigua, agreed, emphasizing the importance of formal training in the field to advance talent and diversify one’s portfolio.

“Because resorts cater to people with different hair textures, knowing how to treat, care for, and style those hair types, especially for their wedding day, will allow you to expand your services and be more employable,” Samuel said.

Now, with the finances of her academic studies covered, Pascal, will this month begin a one-year intensive training certification curriculum from the globally recognized educational organization, Pivot Point, through the CACT.

She expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity.

“I am ecstatic to have been chosen as the recipient of this scholarship. I’ve been interested in hairstyling since I was a child, and as a self-taught hairstylist, I’ll finally have the opportunity to hone my skills and broaden my knowledge, adding to the joy and memorable occasion for my clients on their wedding day,” she said.

Through the Sandals Foundation’s Women Helping Others Achieve (WHOA) programme, women and girls across the Caribbean have received educational opportunities, including skills training in agriculture and information communication technology.

They also benefit from counseling, and mentorship enabling them to transition out of difficult, dependent, and sometimes abusive situations to become independent and confidently live wholesome lives.