05/13/2026
PRESS RELEASE
Council of Caribbean Associations–Canada Announces New “Loved Ones” Bursary Honouring Educator Mrs. Genevieve Lewis
The Genevieve Lewis Loved Ones Bursary :
The Gratitude of the James–Lewis Family
The Council of Caribbean Associations–Canada (CCAC) is honoured to introduce a new opportunity within its Loved Ones Bursary Program for the 2026 scholarship cycle.
In 2016, Kadesha James was awarded a one-time $1,000 bursary to support her studies at the University of Toronto. On the day of the awards ceremony, Kadesha and her mother shared with CCAC representatives that they would be unable to stay for the full event as Kadesha’s beloved grandmother, Mrs. Genevieve Lewis, had passed away the night before.
Kadesha went on to graduate with an Honours BSc., majoring in Physiology and Psychology, and later a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences. In 2020 she joined the CCAC Scholarship Committee. Since then, she has served as the anchor of the organization’s online presentation ceremonies, giving back to the same community that once supported her academic journey.
For 2026, Kadesha and her family have chosen to name one of the bursaries in honour of her late grandmother, Mrs. Genevieve Lewis, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire and uplift future students. Mrs. Genevieve Lewis was a passionate educator and had a long career in Antigua as a teacher, and eventually, principal. Her dedication to the field of education and her joy and generosity toward helping young people succeed led to her being affectionately known as “Teacher” throughout the community. Kadesha and her family hope that this award will positively impact the learning journey of a student this year.
The Loved Ones Bursary Program, launched in 2020, invites individuals and families to sponsor bursaries in tribute to loved ones, supporting students pursuing post-secondary education in Ontario. The addition of the Genevieve Lewis Loved Ones Bursary reflects the James–Lewis family’s deep appreciation for community support and their commitment to helping the next generation pursue their dreams.
This bursary now makes six (6) bursaries of up to $3,000.00 each, paid over 3 years that CCAC is offering for 2026, along with three (3) scholarships – two at up to $24,000.00 each, and one at up to $8,000.00, paid over up to 4 years.
“CCAC is sincerely grateful to Kadesha James and the James–Lewis family for honouring Mrs. Genevieve Lewis through our Loved Ones Bursary Program,” said Ms. Tornelle Griffith, President of CCAC.
“This bursary is a beautiful reminder that the legacy of our loved ones can continue to inspire, uplift, and open doors for future generations. We hope this initiative encourages others to celebrate the lives and values of those they cherish by investing in the dreams and education of our youth.”
For more information about the CCAC Scholarship and Loved Ones Bursary Programs, please visit our website: caribbeancouncilcanada.org
