The Ministry of Health has presented a dozen young Bermudians with scholarships aimed at helping them excel in the world of healthcare.

The 2024 Dr Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarships, named after the barrier-breaking medical practitioner, are awarded to Bermudians pursuing careers in public health.

A ministry spokeswoman said: “The scholarship is awarded to Bermudian students who demonstrate academic excellence while pursuing careers or professional development in public health.

“Candidates were assessed on academic achievement, financial need, public health need and the quality of their application.

“14 shortlisted candidates were interviewed and, after a difficult selection process, 12 candidates were awarded between $6,000 and $9,000 each.”

This year’s recipients included:

• Asha Hoyte, studying child and educational psychology at the University of East London, UK

• Nia Dailey, studying medicine at Queen Mary University of London Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, UK

• Tylasha Desilva, studying social work at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

• Elisha Bailey-Lewis, studying medicine at St George’s University, Grenada

• Jordan Bascome, studying medicine at the American University of Antigua College of Medicine

• Joshua Correia, studying medicine at St George’s University, Grenada

• Dy-Juan DeRoza, studying public health at the University of Toronto, Canada

• Storm Gibbons, studying medicine at St George’s University, Grenada

• Ronnelle James, studying nursing at Glasgow Caledonian University, UK

• Harlee Purvey, studying health sciences at Western University, Canada

• Veronica Swan-DeGraff, studying medicine at St George’s, University, Grenada

• Tiontae Thomas Clarke, studying nursing at Virginia Commonwealth University, USA

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said the Government was proud to be able to support the young Bermudians while paying tribute to Dr Ball, the first Bermudian woman to practice medicine on the island.

She said: “These outstanding individuals have demonstrated a commitment to public health and academic excellence.

“We are confident that they will make significant contributions to the health and wellbeing of our community.

“The Dr Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship is a testament to Dr Ball’s legacy of service and dedication to the people of Bermuda.

“The Ministry of Health is committed to continuing this legacy by supporting the next generation of public health leaders.”