Prime Minister’s Awardee hopes to be a motivator

One out of the two top students who received the Prime Ministers Award and National Scholarships on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the National Schools’ Independence Rally is taking a one-year study break before heading off to university.

Nineteen-year-old Gianna Stapleton who resides in Twenty Hill, South Leeward is taking the year to gain some work experience as an employee at the General Employees Corporate Credit Union (GECCU).

“As of right now I am taking a gap year but next year, I am going to pursue an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering,” Gianna told SEARCHLIGHT. She is not yet sure which university she would be attending, as she is still exploring several options, including at The University of the West Indies as well as some in North America.

The outstanding student expressed pleasure at receiving the Prime Minister’s Award.

“I felt satisfied because I feel like I worked very hard for the past two years, and I was elated to be recognized for my hard work,”said the 19-year-old who received as her award, $20,000 as well as a certificate.
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