The Antigua and Barbuda UK High Commission has announced that four outstanding Antiguan and Barbudan students have been selected to participate in the July 2025 Leadership and Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme (LEAP), hosted by the Jersey College Foundation (JCG Foundation) on the island of Jersey in the Channel Islands.
The initiative, now in its second year, is made possible through the continued partnership between the JCG Foundation, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs and Education, Sports and the Creative Industries. This fully funded scholarship opportunity supports the development of young female leaders from Antigua and Barbuda by immersing them in a globally recognized summer programme focused on leadership, social enterprise, and entrepreneurship.
This year’s scholarship recipients are 18 years old Miya Joseph, a graduate of the Antigua State College, 14 years old Gabrielle Tuckett, a student at the Antigua Girls’ High School, 16 years old Janica Adams, a recent graduate of the Antigua Girls’ High School and 14 years old Alleah Alfred of the St. Anthony’s Secondary School. They are accompanied by Dr. E. Jonah Greene, Deputy Director of Education who will also serve as a LEAP mentor during the programme.
The LEAP Programme, designed for young women aged 14–18, brings together student delegates from around the world to design and pitch social enterprise projects to a panel of investors. Participants receive intensive mentorship in business development, leadership, and social innovation from global industry experts, all while forming international networks and lifelong friendships.
Janica Adams shared, “I am ecstatic to experience the LEAP programme. I believe this is a great opportunity to represent the nation and show the best of what Antigua and Barbuda has to offer. I also hope we will learn and enjoy ourselves.”
Last year’s scholarship recipient, Jo-Anna Gasper, described her experience as life-changing, “Attending the LEAP Programme in Jersey was a transformative experience that expanded my perspective on business and personal growth. I was able to enhance my leadership skills, which I have since applied to my business… My time in Jersey gave me the confidence to push forward with my goals, knowing that success is built on knowledge, resilience, and community.”
Alison Morgan, CEO of the JCG Foundation, added: “At the Jersey College for Girls Foundation, we believe in the power of young women to shape a better future. Our LEAP programme isn’t just about business; it’s about building confident, resilient leaders who can tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. We very much look forward to welcoming Dr. Greene to Jersey and are honoured to have High Commissioner Karen-Mae Hill return as our keynote speaker.”
HC Karen-Mae Hill remarked: “Investing in our girls is investing in the future of our nation. The LEAP programme unlocks their leadership potential, expands their worldview, and equips them with the skills to lead and innovate. I am immensely proud of this year’s cohort and excited to see the impact they will make locally and globally.”
The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission extends its heartfelt congratulations to the 2025 scholarship recipients and thanks all stakeholders who continue to support this impactful collaboration.
