Lyford Cay Foundations Opens Applications for 2026 Peter George Goulandris Heritage Scholarship for Traditional Building Training in The UK

(NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – Lyford Cay Foundations is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Peter George Goulandris Heritage Scholarship, offering Bahamians a fully funded opportunity to receive advanced training in traditional building crafts in the United Kingdom.

Delivered in partnership with The King’s Foundation, the five-month programme (July to November 2026) is designed to strengthen national capacity in heritage preservation while equipping participants with specialised, internationally recognised skills.

The scholarship provides comprehensive support, including tuition, housing, round-trip airfare, and a living allowance, and offers hands-on training with master craftspeople at historic sites and training centres across the UK.

“This programme reflects our commitment to investing in people and preserving what defines us as a nation,” said Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle, Executive Director of Lyford Cay Foundations. “Through our partnership with The King’s Foundation, we are creating opportunities for Bahamians to gain world-class training in traditional crafts; skills that are essential to safeguarding our architectural heritage and strengthening our workforce for the future.”

The scholarship focuses on disciplines such as stone masonry, carpentry and joinery, furniture making, and conservation techniques, all critical to maintaining and restoring The Bahamas’ built environment.

The launch of the programme builds on the success of its inaugural year in 2025, when eight Bahamian tradesmen completed the intensive training and returned home with enhanced technical expertise and a deeper appreciation for heritage craftsmanship.

Among them was Bjorn Munroe, who described the experience as transformative:

“This opportunity opened my eyes to the importance of preserving our heritage and gave me the skills and confidence to do that work here at home,” Munroe said. “It’s more than training; it’s exposure, growth, and a chance to bring something valuable back to The Bahamas.”

Applicants must be Bahamian citizens aged 18 and older with experience in building trades such as carpentry, masonry, or related fields, and must be available to commit to the full five-month programme abroad.

As the application period opens, Lyford Cay Foundations is encouraging eligible individuals across the country to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

“We know that talent exists throughout The Bahamas,” Dr. Virgill-Rolle added. “This scholarship is about unlocking that potential by providing access, building skills, and creating pathways for individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities and to national development.”

Applications are now open, with the deadline for submissions set for May 15th, 2026. Interested applicants can learn more and apply online by visiting: www.lyfordcayfoundations.org