Ancella Evans

Lyford Cay Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship (1994)

While attending College of The Bahamas, now University of The Bahamas, Ancella Evans was encouraged to apply for a Lyford Cay Foundations scholarship. With her award, Ancella was able to attend Union College in New York and graduate cum laude with a BSc in International Studies.

During her time at Union College, Ancella spent a semester abroad in Sao Paulo, Brazil where she conducted research on street youth as a part of her studies. Finding her time there rewarding, Ancella says, “The Lyford Cay Foundations Scholarship has equipped thousands of Bahamians like me to pursue higher education at some of the best colleges and universities around the world. I would encourage new Scholars to embrace fully the opportunity that they have been given.”

“I encourage them to travel and learn another language,” she continues, “Stay focused, practice budgeting and avoid distractions.” Ancella suggests that scholars take into consideration their individual gifts and passions as these are indicators for future career paths. “I would [also] encourage them to be grateful always.”

Ancella Evans

Upon completing her studies in the United States, Ancella embarked upon becoming a lawyer. She attended The University of the West Indies and Eugene Dupuch Law School and for the past 16 years she has served as Assistant Chief Magistrate and Deputy Coroner in Abaco. “The Foundations Scholarship impacted my life in a very positive way. I thoroughly enjoy what I do. I have always enjoyed public service and so this was a natural transition,” she says.

Even though she found success in her chosen field, Ancella’s interest in motivating and educating young people remained; a journey that began during her undergraduate years. In 2022, Ancella co-founded GORGEOUS Mentoring Program, an acronym for Godly, Outstanding, Respectful, Genuine, Excellent, Outspoken, Unique, Smart, along with Mrs. Hadassah Marche. GORGEOUS is a programme that seeks to instil self-esteem in girls between the ages of 10 and 18.

She credits her late parents, Mr. Livingstone Evans and Mrs. Edith Seymour, and other family members for igniting her desire to give back. “I am a firm believer [in the saying] ‘to whom much is given, much is required.’ Throughout my life I have been blessed to have wonderful parents and a supportive village of grandparents and aunts and uncles,” she stated.