15 New Students Receive Financial Support, Bringing the Total to 35 Future Leaders in the 2024 Cohort
In a heartwarming ceremony held on Tuesday, September 3rd, the Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation proudly revealed the recipients of their 2024 Future Leaders through Education Scholarship. This year, 15 new students were awarded scholarships, bringing the total number of supported students for 2024 to 35. Despite the financial struggles caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, this remarkable achievement demonstrates the foundation's enduring commitment to advancing education and providing opportunities for underserved youth in South Florida.
Empowering the next generation
A total of $150,000 in scholarships was distributed among these bright young scholars, each recognized for their academic potential and dedication to their communities. Each scholarship was named in honor of respected community leaders, emphasizing the deep-rooted tradition of giving back to future generations. Some notable recipients included Daniel Miranda, in honor of Juan Estevez, and Sofia Gonzalez, awarded by Coca-Cola Beverages Florida. This blend of legacy and generosity not only highlights the values of the foundation but also brings hope to the families of these students.
The Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation, founded in 1987, has consistently worked toward enriching the lives of underserved youth through educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities. Over the years, their efforts have paved the way for students, particularly from Hispanic backgrounds, to overcome barriers to higher education. With over 500 graduates to date, the foundation has successfully helped students launch careers in fields like law, business administration, engineering, nursing, and teaching.
Currently, 35 students are actively participating in the Future Leaders through Education program, which offers not only financial assistance but also mentoring and guidance to help them navigate the challenges of college life. Joe Fernandez, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation, spoke during the 2024 Kiwanis Foundation Scholarship Award Ceremony, expressing the joy of being part of an event that honors young people with educational opportunities. He emphasized how the scholarship recipients bring hope for a brighter future, despite the often negative portrayal of youth.
The importance of community support
The scholarships are made possible through the generous contributions of corporate partners and local organizations. This year, donors such as the South Florida BMW Center, Amerant Bank, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, and the Miami Heat Charitable Fund have been instrumental in funding the program.
Pablo Lau, a prominent speaker at the event, emphasized that the scholarships are not merely financial assistance but a crucial investment in the future of the community. Each scholarship recipient embodies a beacon of hope, representing the potential for positive change and growth within the community.
Students who qualify for the scholarship must be permanent Florida residents, high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate financial need, and be accepted into a Florida-based university or college. Through this program, the Foundation continues its mission of empowering Miami’s Hispanic community, creating pathways for future success.
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