Oliver Samuels Foundation awards its first scholarship

The Oliver Samuels Foundation is set to host the official handover ceremony for its inaugural Oliver Samuels Foundation Scholarship on Wednesday, January 14, at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, Edward Seaga Resource Centre, in Kingston.

Dante Saunders, a student of the college is the recipient of the scholarship. This marks a significant milestone in the foundation’s mission to support emerging Caribbean talent in the creative and cultural industries, a press release stated.

The ceremony will be hosted by veteran Jamaican comedian and actor Owen ‘Blakka’ Ellis and will feature distinguished figures from the creative industries and supporters of the arts, as well as remarks from Oliver Samuels, alongside members of the foundation and invited dignitaries.

Speaking on the significance of the award, Samuels shared, “This Foundation is about creating opportunities for the next generation of Caribbean storytellers, dreamers, and artists. That’s what this scholarship means to me.”

The Oliver Samuels Foundation Scholarship reflects the entity’s commitment to tangible action, moving beyond vision to directly invest in the education and development of young creatives. Through this initiative, the Foundation seeks to reduce barriers to access, foster excellence, and nurture the next generation of cultural leaders.

The Oliver Samuels Foundation was established to provide scholarships, mentorship, and creative development opportunities for students of Caribbean heritage pursuing studies in the arts, media, and related fields. Rooted in a legacy of laughter, excellence, and service, the Foundation leverages Oliver Samuels’ lifelong contribution to Caribbean culture to open doors for emerging talent and support sustainable creative growth across the region.