McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, has announced Dominican resident Pryla Pamphile as the newest recipient of the esteemed Nicholas and Janice Brathwaite Award. Pamphile has been recognized for her exceptional academic prowess, community leadership, and dedication to societal progress.
Established biennially, the Nicholas and Janice Brathwaite Award, generously funded by the PETNA Foundation, celebrates outstanding scholars from the Caribbean region. It provides them with the opportunity to pursue their undergraduate studies at McMaster University, empowering them to achieve their academic aspirations.
Dr. Nicholas Brathwaite, along with his wife Janice, initiated the PETNA Foundation in homage to his parents. Expressing gratitude to McMaster University for its support, Dr. Brathwaite emphasized the foundation’s mission to facilitate young individuals in leveraging education to transform their lives and make meaningful contributions to society. Since its inception in 2012, the award has facilitated the education of eight Caribbean students at McMaster University.
Pamphile, an incoming member of McMaster’s Class of 2029, harbored ambitions of pursuing a career in STEM from a young age. Motivated by the tragic loss of a friend to an untreated heart condition, she aspires to revolutionize organ transplant procedures. Her vision entails crafting organs tailored to patients, reducing waiting times, and minimizing the risk of rejection.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Pamphile has demonstrated exemplary leadership. She served as president of the Perpetual Help Program at her school, where she provided meals to underprivileged students and honed her problem-solving skills. Additionally, she initiated a Big Sister Program, facilitating the transition of junior students into secondary school. Pamphile’s commitment to empowering young girls in male-dominated fields was evident in her role as co-coordinator of the Girl Power Club, advocating for gender equality and independence.
“This is a monumental opportunity for me to receive a world-class education and propel myself into a successful career. I know my future career goals can be attained through being afforded excellent networking, research, and co-op opportunities,” said St. Luican-born Pamphile who studied at Dominica State College.
Andy Moonsammy, McMaster’s international recruitment representative for the Caribbean region, expressed excitement over Pamphile’s selection from a competitive pool of applicants spanning ten CARICOM-member states. He lauded her dedication to service and community aligning with McMaster University and the PETNA Foundation’s core values, he relayed in a statement, “Pryla’s commitment to innovation, community service, and excellence, exemplifies the values upheld by McMaster University and the PETNA Foundation.”
McMaster University has extended heartfelt congratulations to Pryla Pamphile for her outstanding achievements and a warm welcome to the entering undergraduate cohort of 2024.
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