LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS Is “FOCUSing On The Whole Bahamas”

50 For 50 Initiative to Create Unique Opportunity for Family Island Students

(NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – In celebration of The Bahamas’ 50th anniversary, Lyford Cay Foundations is launching 50 FOR 50, a unique week-long opportunity for students from selected Family Island schools to experience FOCUS, the Foundations’ renowned academic enrichment programme, this summer. Interested Family Island schools and students are encouraged to register quickly so that they do not miss this exciting week of enrichment.

With the theme of “FOCUSing On The Whole Bahamas,” Lyford Cay Foundations is offering a chance for 50 rising 11th grade students from across The Bahamas to participate in FOCUS On Course To College (OCTC) from July 15th – 19th in New Providence. This marks the first time that OCTC has been available for students from across The Bahamas.

This event will be free for participating students through the generosity of the Foundations’ donors. Transportation, activities, meals, and through a corporate partnership with Breezes Resort Bahamas, shared accommodations will all be covered.

Students chosen from each selected Family Island schools will be flown to New Providence where they will connect with other like-minded students and participate in activities designed to prepare them for college. Under FOCUS staff’s supervision, the students will be provided SAT preparation and academic and career counselling. Students will also learn about college options and college admission strategies, have an opportunity to tour the University of The Bahamas and learn more about the admissions process. Additionally, students will learn about technical and vocational education options. Participants will also be exposed to sports, the arts and a symposium on “The Bahamas for My Generation.”

FOCUS is a an out-of-school-time enrichment programme which runs in New Providence for six weeks in the summer and 15 Saturdays throughout the school year. The programme provides support to motivated students who aspire to be the first in their families to attend college or who aspire toward upward mobility through education. Over 70% of FOCUS graduates have gone on to post-secondary education with the remaining graduates pursuing meaningful employment.

“Lyford Cay Foundations is proud to have been a part of the country’s progress over the past 50 years. We believe the biggest gift that we can give to The Bahamas is access to educational opportunities that lead to bright futures. For that reason, we are overjoyed to make FOCUS’ On Course To College available broadly to Family Island students for the first time,” said Executive Director, Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle.

Family Island students and schools who are interested in participating should visit our application portal on the website or contact Lyford Cay Foundations at (242) 362-4910.