Thelise Dyer has received the Dr Kathy-Ann Louise White Scholarship from The Phoenix Stores Ltd.

Named after the first Bermudian pharmacist with a doctorate, the scholarship provides up to $10,000 per year for a maximum of five years of study at an approved college or university.

Ms Dyer’s said pharmacy is her dream career because of an affinity for science and an interest in helping those in her community.

She said: “I am grateful for this scholarship and the opportunities it will afford me, and I will also have the chance to gain quality work experience in a pharmacy during school breaks.

“Throughout my life, I have noticed a large majority of Bermudians either do not have comprehensive health insurance plans or do not have access to insurance at all. One long term goal I have is to create a fund or programme to aid persons who do not have the proper access to their medications, with the financial support they require.

“Although, I would need to research if there was any possible way to subsidise these costs, at least partially. I am confident that gaining a degree will give me the knowledge to affect change.”

George Grundmuller, president and chief executive officer of The Phoenix Stores Ltd, said the company is committed to supporting the local community and investing in its future.

He said: “The Phoenix Stores constantly supports at least two talented individuals seeking to excel and reflect the excellent dedication of Dr White, who studied at Central School, The Berkeley Institute, Bermuda College, Massachusetts College and Mercer Southern School.

“Dr White worked at the King Edward Memorial Hospital for more than ten years before moving to The Phoenix Stores, where she held the chief pharmacist position. We are pleased to carry on her legacy through ambitious young Bermudians.”

Ms Dyer completed her high school education at Bermuda High School with a GPA of 3.79 and an IB Diploma with 32 credits in 2019.

She plans to continue her studies in pharmaceutical chemistry at Ontario Tech University in the autumn, where she currently sits on the Dean’s List and is expected to graduate in 2024.

The 19-year-old admits a few obstacles in pursuing her career goals include growing up in a single-parent household, juggling two jobs to assist with school fees and a significant decrease in work hours due to the Covid-19 pandemic.