GoodHeart |Aspiring dentist hopes to pay it forward

For 22-year-old Jade Cohall-Cunningham, the journey to becoming a dental surgeon has been demanding yet full of hope and opportunity, thanks in large part to the Howard Ward Foundation, organisers of the MoBay Night Run. Though the annual run officially started in 2024, its scholarships have been impacting lives since 2023, and Cohall-Cunningham was one of the first recipients to benefit from this support.

Growing up in Montego Bay, St James under the guidance of her grandmother, a retired principal, Cohall-Cunningham learned the value of education, discipline, and giving back from a very early age. “My grandmother has been a tremendous source of support and inspiration in my life,” she explained.

Her educational journey took her from Catherine Hall Infant and Primary School to the Montego Bay High School for Girls, where she held leadership positions including form captain, prefect, senior prefect, and head girl. She was actively involved in clubs and community initiatives, experiences that shaped her confidence and strengthened her desire to make a difference.

Now a third-year student in the Doctor of Medical Dentistry programme at the University of Technology, Cohall-Cunningham balances the rigours of coursework, laboratory sessions, and clinical training.

“The journey has been challenging and costly but incredibly rewarding. Every stage of the programme brings new knowledge and skills, and seeing how dentistry can transform lives motivates me to keep going,” she shared.

Cohall-Cunningham recalled the moment she learned she had been selected for the scholarship: “I was extremely grateful and humbled. It reminded me that there are organisations and individuals who genuinely believe in supporting students and helping them achieve their goals.”

The scholarship has eased some of the financial burdens associated with pursuing a demanding dentistry degree.

“Dentistry requires not only tuition but also investment in specialised tools, equipment, and materials. This scholarship has allowed me to focus more on my studies and clinical development rather than constantly worrying about finances,” she explained.

PROUD MOMENT

One of her proudest moments came when she began performing advanced practical procedures on her colleagues. Wearing her scrubs and applying the knowledge she had gained reminded her how far she had come and reinforced her commitment to becoming a dentist. Beyond the technical skills, Cohall-Cunningham has learned the importance of perseverance, discipline, and compassion.

She added, “Dentistry is not only about technical skill; it is also about understanding patients, educating them, and building trust. Continuous learning is also essential in a field that is constantly evolving.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to give back through education and preventive care initiatives, particularly in underserved communities. She wants to improve access to oral healthcare through school programmes, health fairs, and community outreach, helping people learn proper oral hygiene and prevent dental problems before they start.

For young Jamaicans considering a career in dentistry, Cohall-Cunningham encourages them not to be discouraged by financial challenges or self-doubt. Scholarships like the Howard Ward Foundation through the MoBay Night Run exist to support passionate students and, with hard work and determination, their dreams are achievable. She concluded by thanking the organisers and supporters of the MoBay Night Run.

“Your support goes far beyond a single event. It creates opportunities that truly transform the lives of students like me, allowing us to continue pursuing our education and preparing to contribute positively to our communities,” Cohall-Cunningham said of the foundation.

One hundred percent of proceeds will support the foundation’s education initiatives, including scholarships for secondary and tertiary students. The foundation is also contributing to the recovery efforts at Anchovy High following Hurricane Melissa, providing sustained, long-term educational support.

The Mobay Night Run is scheduled for April 4 at Harmony Hall.

goodheart@gleanerjm.com