At the Kayifi Foundation, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. This spring, we are proud to celebrate three outstanding students who have shown resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference. Their journeys inspire us, and we are honored to support them as they pursue their dreams.
Introducing the Winners of the Spring 2025 Kayifi Awards
Taniel Gunter: Recipient of the Spring 2025 Kayifi Academic Excellence Award Scholarship
Award Amount: US $5,000
Taniel’s story is one of resilience, passion, and purpose. Growing up in Jamaica, she saw firsthand the ups and downs of business through her family’s farming enterprise.
When financial hardship hit, she didn’t just accept it—she turned it into fuel for change. Now, she’s on a mission to help small businesses thrive by combining smart business strategies with technology.
Currently pursuing her Master’s in Information Systems with a focus on Business Cybersecurity at Florida International University, Taniel is determined to make an impact. She wants to equip Jamaican entrepreneurs with the digital tools and cybersecurity knowledge they need to protect and grow their businesses.
But her passion doesn’t stop there—she’s been giving back for years. From leading literacy programs to helping students get school supplies, she’s always been about lifting others up. And with big dreams of starting her own consultancy, she’s just getting started!
While being successful is important to Taniel, remaining grounded in faith is an important contributor to her life and career path. She credits all her successes and future successes to her faith in God.
We couldn’t be prouder to support Taniel on this journey. Congratulations! The future is bright, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things she’ll accomplish.
Celebrating Jean Fritz St Preux – Recipient of the Spring 2025 Kayifi Financial Hardship Award!
Award Amount: $2,500 USD
For Jean Fritz, the land is more than soil—it’s Haiti’s future. Growing up on his father’s farm, he saw firsthand the struggles of rural communities, from deforestation to economic hardship. But instead of turning away, he chose to take action.
Now pursuing a PhD in Forestry Economics abroad, Jean Fritz is determined to change how Haiti values and protects its natural resources.
His vision includes establishing Haiti’s first forestry program, empowering local communities through sustainable practices, and advocating for policies that balance conservation with economic growth. He’s not just studying solutions—he’s working to create them.
This scholarship is more than support—it’s an investment in a brilliant mind who’s ready to make a difference. Congratulations, Jean Fritz!
The Kayifi Foundation is honored to be part of his journey. Haiti needs changemakers like him, and we can’t wait to see how he will help the country thrive.
Meet Reahana Thompson – Our Spring 2025 Kayifi Supplemental Financial Hardship Award Winner!
Award Amount: $500
Reahana is a powerhouse of determination and passion. Growing up in Jamaica, she excelled in track and football, but her dreams stretched far beyond the field. When she saw how women in sports and physical therapy were often overlooked, she made it her mission to change that.
Now on her path to becoming a physical therapist, Reahana is determined to make healthcare more accessible in Jamaica while also creating opportunities for young athletes—especially girls—to succeed in both sports and education.
Her vision? A nonprofit that provides resources, mentorship, and funding for students to thrive on and off the field.
The Kayifi Foundation is proud to support Reahana’s journey. This scholarship fuels her potential to create a lasting impact. Congratulations, Reahana! Keep breaking barriers!
Empowering Dreams, Inspiring Change
These three inspiring individuals remind us that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, anything is possible. The Kayifi Foundation is honored to help them along their journey, and we look forward to seeing the change they bring to their communities and beyond.
Congratulations again to our Spring 2025 scholarship recipients!
