In a small town in Trelawny, a young girl is already making a mark with her unwavering ambition and exceptional academic performance. Twelve-year-old Nickayla Jarrett has recently been named the 2024 JN Foundation PEP Scholar for her parish, and her journey is one of perseverance, gratitude, and big dreams.
For Nickayla, this award isn’t just a recognition of her academic prowess; it’s a symbol of her family’s hard work and sacrifices. “I couldn’t believe it when I found out,” she said. “To be the first in my family to receive a scholarship like this is an incredible honor. It’s a dream come true.”
Her mother, Alecia Morgan-Jarrett, couldn’t be prouder of her daughter. “Nickayla is not just a high achiever in school; she’s reliable, determined, and driven by passion. She’s always set her goals high, and I have no doubt she’ll continue to surpass them,” Alecia shared, her voice full of pride.
Nickayla, who graduated from Hague Primary and Infant School with a remarkable score of 374.9 out of 400 in her Primary Exit Profile (PEP), is now attending Westwood High School. Her academic success is just one piece of the puzzle, as she has set her sights on a bold future in the world of fashion.
“I’ve always been fascinated by design. I want to study fashion at a top school like the New York School of Design, and one day, I plan to open my own fashion franchise,” Nickayla said, her eyes sparkling with ambition. While most children her age may be still figuring out what they want to do, Nickayla is already planning her global career.
Her love for fashion is complemented by an unexpected passion for problem-solving. “I enjoy math a lot,” she explained. “It’s like solving a puzzle, and I love the challenge.” This talent for tackling complex problems has not gone unnoticed. Shannon Anglin, Nickayla’s sixth-grade teacher, describes her as a standout student. “Nickayla is a rare student—focused, thoughtful, and always eager to learn,” Anglin said. “She’s not afraid of hard work and has a remarkable drive to succeed.”
Throughout her primary school years, Nickayla balanced her academic excellence with a wide range of extracurricular activities, from dance and choir to membership in the 4-H Club and the Mathematics Club. At Westwood High, she has continued to explore her interests, joining the News Society and the Debate Club.
“I think it’s important to have a well-rounded life,” Nickayla said. “It’s not just about doing well in school; it’s about growing as a person, being involved in your community, and pursuing your passions.”
With her mother’s support and the scholarship easing some of the financial burdens, Nickayla is able to fully focus on her academics and extracurriculars. “This scholarship means everything to us,” she said. “It allows me to concentrate on my goals and reduces the pressure on my family.”
Nickayla is also deeply grateful for the emotional support she receives from her extended family and her church community. “I want to thank my grandfather for being there for us, picking up where my mom leaves off, and also my teachers and church family for all their prayers and encouragement,” she said.
The JN Foundation’s PEP scholarship is awarded to students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership, dedication, and a desire to make a positive impact. Nickayla embodies all these qualities and more. As she embarks on her journey at Westwood High and sets her sights on becoming a global force in fashion, her story is one of ambition, resilience, and an unwavering belief in herself.
The JN Foundation has been supporting Jamaica’s brightest students for over four decades, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Nickayla Jarrett is just one of many who will go on to do incredible things.
