As The Bahamas continues to navigate an increasingly competitive global economy, initiatives that invest in the nation’s young people remain among the most powerful tools for shaping its future.
Under the theme “Leadership Thrives Through Relationship,” the 11th Munroe-Pinder Leadership Awards held on June 20, 2026, at the University of The Bahamas recognized a new generation of student leaders. More than an academic award, the programme identifies 12th-grade and freshman undergraduate students whose academic achievement, service, and leadership potential distinguish them among their peers.
Named in honour of the late Dr Myles Munroe and Dr Richard Pinder, the programme reflects a belief long championed by both men: a nation’s greatest resource is not found beneath the ground or within its borders, but in the potential of its people.
That impact was evident in remarks shared by former recipient Cordal Ramsey Junior. Ramsey recently completed his sophomore year at Virginia State University and credited the scholarship with easing the financial burden. That support allowed him to take advantage of greater leadership opportunities, ultimately resulting in his election as Vice President of Academic Affairs for the university’s Student Government Association.
This year’s top honours went to Ethan Turner, who received the top scholarship award of $6,000. Nia-Ishia Prince earned second place with an award of $3,500. Justice Clarke secured third place with a $2,500 award, and Kendall Brooks received the Servant Leader Award and a scholarship of $2,000.
Held on Saturday, June 20, at the University of The Bahamas, the evening’s programme included welcome remarks from Dr Richard Adderley, Chairman of the Munroe-Pinder Awards, and a keynote presentation titled “A Word to the Wise,” delivered by Zhivargo Lang, Executive Director and Senior Policy Fellow of the Government and Public Policy Institute at the University of The Bahamas.
Former award recipients Zoe Turner and Danielle Wood also addressed attendees. Both shared reflections on their educational journeys and the role the programme played in helping them pursue their academic goals.
The other 2026 top 10 finalists were Amelia Hepburn; Zion Carey; Avani Sawyer; Cassidy Edgecombe; Rogan Smith; and Devinity Bowe.
As The Bahamas continues to explore new ways to strengthen educational outcomes, expand access to higher learning, and prepare our people for global success, programmes such as the Munroe-Pinder Leadership Awards serve as an important complement to those efforts. By recognizing achievement, rewarding leadership, and helping to remove financial barriers to higher education, the initiative continues to invest in the country’s most valuable resource – its people.
Source: Felicity Darville
The post Munroe-Pinder Awards Invest in Bahamas’ Next Generation of Leaders appeared first on ZNS BAHAMAS.
