¤ Devon's College & Family Fund ¤

In this world, there are so many young adults with outstanding skills and abilities — people who are talented, smart, ambitious, dedicated and yet, unsuccessful. Many of these are persons who though capable, aren't afforded the opportunity to make something of themselves because they lack formal tertiary education and certification. Even more unfortunate…they lack the financial resources required to seek it. My name is Devon, and I am one of those unfortunate souls.

I was born and raised in the beautiful tropics on the island of Jamaica - known for its white, sandy beaches, delicious cuisine, awesome attractions and friendly people. In spite of this I endured a difficult upbringing as the cost of living in this Third  World country is high and many can only afford the basic necessities. Regardless, my mother and sister saw my desire to further my education beyond the secondary level and tried their best to put me through college. However, due to financial constraints, I was only able to complete little over a year at one of the local Universities majoring in a combination of business and information technology.


At one point, an uncle of mine agreed to be my benefactor so that I might continue school. In an effort to seek better opportunities I applied to Centennial College in Canada and was accepted; this thrilled me beyond words. Unfortunately, when it came time for me to submit the required documentation my Uncle disclosed that he was no longer able to assist.  Needless to say, I was heartbroken, having to abandon another dream. Right then and there, despite my disappointment, I resolved to become more independent. I had been taught a life-lesson it would seem, and I embraced it.

Continuing my search for opportunities, I decided to tread into the hospitality industry as a Chef, in order to save my tuition. I attended a vocational training school and recently achieved the certification required to work in this industry. I am now employed to one of the hotels on the North Coast of Jamaica. However, with the cost of living and the wages paid locally in this industry, it feels like my quota will never be met. But I'll continue with my endeavor, nonetheless — tenacity has always been one of my strongest qualities, after all.

As the days pass me by I feel as though I'm leagues away from attaining my true goals. So, whenever I get free time, I try to read up as much as I can on computer programming and practice. I also try to pursue some of the courses on courser that teach programming. I'm also interested in becoming a fictional writer, so I do a lot of reading and I write fanfictions to hone my skills in hopes of publishing my first novel. I don't feel content unless I'm doing something productive with my life; I like to feel a sense of accomplishment, so I feed my mind with general knowledge to become a more rounded individual in all aspects of life.

I've been a Christian for over four years now - but since I'm from a Christian background, it feels much longer than that.
Like any other person, I've had my share of adversities but I can't help but be positive and cheerful - and with the help of God I've continued to be faithful.
I really believe completing my tertiary education and earning my degree is an avenue for a better life - one where I can be in a better position to help my family – especially my mom and sister who despite their own struggles have continued to love and support me in whatever way they can.

 
Every day, my heart burns with the passion to continue my studies and pursue a career in my preferred field. I believe people should work in an environment that they enjoy and feel comfortable — that pure energy will lead to higher productivity.  As they say, happy cows produce the best milk.

I feel as though there is a greater meaning behind my existence; I want to be able to significantly contribute to, not only the shaping and building of today's society, but the future's, as well. I want to get to a place where I am able to help others like me; because I know the unbearable frustration of not being able to receive proper schooling and achieving one's goals.

So, I ask you to reach out and touch those people out there with an ardent passion to grow and, in turn, become the building blocks of a better tomorrow for both you and your family. I am certain you will receive blessings in return for your kindness.

"Treat thy neighbor in a manner which you would like to be treated."

Thank you.