After almost 40 years of offering scholarships to middle school scholars, high school students, undergraduate and graduate students, the Guyana Nurses Association of America, Inc. has taken their work and dedication to another milestone in the community.
The association is now engaging and connecting past recipients of its scholarships to undertake the role of mentoring young students, a mentee/mentor relationship. The opportunity is also one for allowing the past recipients to help prepare another generation of brilliant minds by providing them with professional directions and guidance.
The first annual scholarship / mentor event was held recently at the New Life Center of Truth Hall, on Snyder Avenue, in Brooklyn. More than 120 students were on hand to participate in a panel discussion about their future and how significant changes could be made in their lives through mentorship. Dr. Jacqueline Gulstone, chairperson and past president of the Guyana Nurses Association said the former recipients, who are all now established professionals, are also expected to work with the students directly to help them follow their dreams. Dr. Gulstone noted that some students were lacking the knowledge of the concrete requirements for their career choice. “This lack of awareness has caused serious missteps which can affect their lives,” she added.
The 14 varying professionals include practicing careers such as judges, doctors, pharmacist, principals, social worker, business owners and police officers, some of whom benefitted from the annual scholarship awards. “This group of professionals have taken on the responsibilities to help these students in getting the professional help they need,” Dr. Gulstone expressed.
The Guyana Nurses Association of America, Inc. opens its scholarship award program to applicants in August, 2016 and scholarships are designated to recipients at its December gala, 2016.
