Tourism Scholarship Recipients
C.I. Department of Tourism
Kristen Smith, Sheena Ebanks and Ryan Lloydhave been named this year's Ministry of Tourism scholarship recipients.Established in 1996, this scholarship fund is specifically forstudents who want to pursue an Associate or Bachelor's Degreecourse of study in a tourism or tourism-related discipline.
Sheena is 17 years old, the daughter of William and Sharon Ebanksof Lower Valley and is a graduate of John Gray High School. Shehopes to pursue a degree in Culinary Arts at Johnson & WalesUniversity, North Miami. "It's a pleasant surprise to bechosen. I'm extremely happy and am thankful for this great opportunityto contribute to my society, upon my return home," said Sheena.
Ryan remarked, "I appreciate receiving this scholarship asit will prove useful in helping me achieve my Food & BeverageManagement degree." He is 19 years old and the son of Trevorand Francia Lloyd. Ryan worked for two summers at the Hyatt RegencyGrand Cayman and enjoys working with his hands. He joins Sheenain studying at Johnson & Wales University.
Nineteen-year-old Kristen, daughter of Dr. Gerald and JenniferSmith, is aiming for a degree in International Hospitality &Tourism Management at the University of Surrey, England. The experienceshe gained from working in the hospitality industry during herhigh school years was what "convinced her to pursue a tourismmanagement degree." She further adds, "I'm gratefulto the Ministry of Tourism for this award. I am looking forwardto university life and my involvement with our local tourism industry."
Both Sheena and Ryan receive a full scholarship each of US$23,000per annum, while Kristen receives a partial scholarship of US$5,000.The scholarship maintains that rigid academic standards are heldthroughout the recipients entire tenure abroad.
Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Thomas Jefferson advised the recipientsto "take advantage of the scholarship and make the best ofit." He further added, "the tourism industry in theseIslands is an important contributor to the economy and livelihoodof our people. It is our goal to ensure Caymanians take theirrightful places in maintaining the quality service we provideto visitors, while ensuring their upward mobility within thosebusinesses in the hospitality industry. I am proud to be in aposition to use my influence to assist young people who have demonstratedan interest in the tourism industry."