Hello, my name is Jhada Mckie. I am an 18-year-old college student pursuing a Bachelor of Education at the Sam Sharpe Teachers' College. My area of specialisation is Secondary Education, Spanish, and French, in which I am a French major. This coming September, I will be entering my third year of college, and as a requirement for completion of my studies, I must spend 3 months in France.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and something I have been dreaming of since my first day of college. However, it has not been easy. While managing tuition and other college expenses like food, transportation, and resources, I've had difficulty setting aside the funds for this trip.

Following Hurricane Melissa in October of last year, I sustained severe damage to my home, and as such, funds had to be used for repairs. In addition, the semester was pushed back because the college, while in need of repair, was also without electricity and water. When we finally returned to school in December, which would usually have been exam time, we were rushing to finish the syllabus before the holidays so we could sit exams in January.

After exams, we officially commenced the new semester in February and tried our best to get back to normal, with very little luck. By the time February was over, we were out on year two peer teaching for two weeks. This engagement though necessary, robbed us of well needed lectures and classes. After two weeks of teaching practice, we were left with only April to do our best to finish this semester for exams in May. During this time, I was encouraged to hold fundraisers, but I simply could not find the time. Before I knew it, it was May and exams had begun. During this time, I started job hunting so I could begin working immediately after exams. However, I was unsuccessful in my search. The plan was to work for three months, June-August, in a job that would enable me to utilise my skills in languages and communication. A specific company that I got interviewed by ended up rejecting me for my faith and was lecturing me about my religious beliefs since I refused to work on the sabbath. The interviewer made several claims that I was making a mistake and that God would not want me to deny myself the opportunity of work because of Him. I left the interview that day feeling defeated and began to question my life and whether I was doing the right thing. I applied at other locations and online, but I didn't get through. As of today, the 6th of July, I am still unemployed and searching, hoping and praying that God has not forsaken me.

My lecturers have confirmed that the total cost of the programme is just under €8,000, covering travel, accommodation, and other required expenses. While I know I may not raise the entire amount, every contribution brings me one step closer to achieving this dream. If you are unable to donate, simply sharing this fundraiser with your friends and family would mean just as much. Thank you for believing in me and for helping me take this life-changing opportunity.