Scotiabank Community Program

Scotiabank awarded 20-year-old Saskia Telfort, former student of Clement Howell High School and the British West Indies Collegiate, with the first-ever Scotiabank Turks and Caicos Scholarship in May 2012.

Cecil Arnold, Managing Director of Scotiabank in Turk and Caicos, referred to the educational grant — worth $100,000 CAD — as both historic and exciting not just for Telfort, but for Scotiabank and York University as well.

Telfort is a standout student with a passion for business who has been recognised repeatedly for her academic achievements and volunteer involvement. The scholarship, intended to contribute to the development and retention of academic talent and future leaders in Turks and Caicos, provides $25,000 per year for four years to an exceptional first-year student who intends to embark on a business (or business-related) degree at York University, located in Toronto, Canada. Telfort will also receive additional funding through York's International Merit Scholarship for each year of her studies.

"Obtaining a degree from York University will undoubtedly prepare me for a world of opportunities and give me a competitive edge in the job market," Telfort said. "After completing my degree, I look forward to returning to the Turks and Caicos Islands as a well-rounded citizen and joining the Scotiabank team, where I will use my skills and expertise to contribute to its overall growth and development."

We wish Sakia Telfort much success in her studies at York University and look forward to working with her in the near future.