KINGSTON, Jamaica — The First Heritage Co-operative Credit Union Limited (FHC) and its foundation have once again demonstrated their commitment to empowering individuals through education and entrepreneurship. On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the FHC Credit Union 2025 Scholarship and Awards Ceremony took place at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel under the theme, “Play to Win: Strength in Strategy, Power in Performance.” The event celebrated the achievements of students and entrepreneurs who received scholarships and grants to further their aspirations. Among the beneficiaries were Gayon Stewart and Renae McEachron, whose stories highlight the transformative impact of this support. Gayon Stewart, a dedicated educator pursuing a primary teacher education degree at St. Joseph Teachers’ College, was awarded the Renald Mason Scholarship for her outstanding academic performance, achieving a 3.7 GPA. Specializing in science and mathematics, Stewart’s journey has been marked by resilience and determination. A mother of three, she had to delay her educational ambitions to support her family. Now, with her children grown, she is seizing the opportunity to fulfill her lifelong passion for teaching. The scholarship provides her with financial stability, allowing her to focus on her studies without the burden of financial stress. Renae McEachron, an ambitious entrepreneur, was one of three recipients of the entrepreneurship grant. Her agro-business, Breezy Castle Farm, located in St. Mary, will benefit from the $500,000 grant to modernize operations and implement irrigation systems. This innovation will enable year-round planting, overcoming the challenges posed by seasonal droughts. McEachron’s journey has been fraught with setbacks, including praedial larceny that forced her to abandon farming for a time. Now, with a secure location and renewed determination, she is expanding her farm to include animal rearing and storage facilities. The ceremony also recognized other outstanding individuals. In the tertiary category, $1.7 million was distributed among recipients of the Renald Mason, Oswald Thorbourne, and sports education scholarships. Additionally, ten high school students received over $600,000 in academic awards and grants for their exceptional performances in the 2025 Primary Exit Profile. The FHC Credit Union’s initiatives underscore the importance of strategic investment in education and entrepreneurship as catalysts for community development and economic growth.