ROSEAU, DOMINICA – The Kertist A. Augustus Foundation held its annual scholarship award ceremony on Friday, August 29, honoring both academic excellence and community leadership. The event, held at the Waterfront Allied Workers Union (WAWU) Headquarters, marked a special tribute to the late Evelina Baptiste, former Dominica Chapter President of the foundation.
Nadjae Shillingford, a dedicated student pursuing Paralegal Studies at Dominica State College (DSC), was selected as this year’s scholarship recipient. Her academic achievements and commitment to legal studies exemplify the qualities that the foundation seeks to recognize and support.
“We are proud to continue Ms. Baptiste’s legacy through supporting talented students like Nadjae who demonstrate exceptional promise in their field,” Frederica Riley, current Dominica Chapter President, said.
During the ceremony, Riley also presented the Kertist A. Augustus Foundation’s Certificate of Achievement to Ms. Shillingford, while Celia Nicholas presented the scholarship award check.
“As I stand here today, presenting this scholarship in memory of Evelina Baptiste, I am reminded that her greatest legacy wasn’t just her leadership, but her unwavering belief in empowering the next generation. Nadjae, you embody the very spirit of excellence and dedication that Ms. Baptiste worked tirelessly to foster in our community. May this recognition inspire you to reach even greater heights in your pursuit of justice through legal studies,” Nicholas stated.
This touching gesture connects past leadership with future promise, highlighting the foundation’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence in Dominica.
This year’s recipient expressed deep appreciation for the award, noting, “This scholarship is more than just financial support. It is a symbol of encouragement, perseverance, and excellence. I am humbled to be recognized in this way and intend to carry forward the values of hard work, leadership, and service to the community this award represents,” Nadjae Shillingford stated.
The Kertist A. Augustus Foundation was established in 2022 to honor and acknowledge the lifelong work and dedication of Kertist Augustus, who devoted his life to the Waterfront and Allied Workers Union for over fifty years. His involvement in the trade Union movement in Dominica and the Caribbean region has been inspiring and significant. Hence, the foundation was established as a means to continue his work in helping the most vulnerable while inspiring the next generation of leaders in Dominica and the Caribbean.
Thus far, the foundation has awarded three current Secondary School scholars, with Ms. Shillingford being the first college awardee, and will continue its tradition of supporting outstanding students while honoring the memory of dedicated community leaders who have shaped the organization’s mission and impact.