GKF Scholars Design Networking Experience to Connect Students with Senior Leaders

On March 12, the University of the West Indies Mona Campus served as the backdrop for the annual GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF) Scholars’ Mingle. This year’s event brought together approximately 110 participants, including current GK scholarship recipients (GK scholars), former GK scholars, and GraceKennedy team members. Driven by a student-led vision, the Mingle was designed to create a dedicated space for direct, career-shaping engagement with senior leadership.  

Each year, GKF provides millions in scholarships to tertiary students across Jamaica, representing a significant investment in the nation’s future leaders. The Scholars’ Mingle forms part of the Foundation’s broader commitment to the holistic development of its scholars.  Beyond financial support, the GKF scholarship programme provides opportunities for mentorship, volunteerism, professional exposure, and engagement with the wider GraceKennedy network. 

Within this year’s atmosphere of mentorship and engagement, at the Scholars’ Mingle Frank James, Group CEO of GraceKennedy Limited, addressed the cohort, emphasizing the vital role of relationship-building and the extensive support network available through the GraceKennedy Group.  

“In this room there are people who have walked these paths before and are here to guide you,” James said. “Whatever you set your mind to, you can achieve it, and we are here to support you. The journey will have its twists and turns, but those challenges will strengthen you, build character and push you further than you imagined,” he added. 

James also shared his own career journey within GraceKennedy, from his early roles in GK Money Services and GK Insurance, to his current position as Group CEO, underscoring the value of perseverance and continuous growth. 

University of the West Indies students and GKF scholars Demaria Walker and Ashley Allison played a central role in curating the experience. Walker, GKF’s Campus Connect Coordinator and 2024 GK/Jamaica Scholar, and Allison, GKF’s Ace with Grace Coordinator and Rafael Diaz Merit Scholar, intentionally designed the event to move beyond traditional networking to foster genuine and impactful conversations. 

“Our goal was to create a unique environment where scholars could engage meaningfully with senior leaders, not just to exchange contacts, but to have real conversations about their journeys, challenges, and opportunities.” said Walker. “Opportunities like that, where students can sit across from business leaders in these spaces, don’t come around every day. What stood out most to me was how engaged everyone was. The conversations were so meaningful, many didn’t want them to end,” she said. 

The event featured themed tables hosted by GraceKennedy team members and past GK scholars across several disciplines, including law, medicine, engineering, business, computing, and the creative industries. The format allowed scholars to intentionally navigate the room, engaging with professionals aligned to their interests while also exploring new fields and perspectives. The result was a dynamic and interactive environment where meaningful dialogue took centre stage. 

“Creating spaces like this is intentional,” said Caroline Mahfood, CEO of the GraceKennedy Foundation. “It’s about helping our scholars recognize their potential, to see what’s possible for themselves and feel confident stepping into spaces where they can grow, lead and belong.”