Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to announce the opening of the 2025 Carleton Williams Scholarship. This year the scholarship is open to all sixth-grade students attending public schools with a 3.0 GPA or above in Grand Bahama primary schools only.
The scholarship rotates annually between primary students at Garvin Tynes Primary in New Providence and all sixth graders attending public schools in Grand Bahama. The winning scholar is awarded a scholarship to a local private school for the full six years of high school, subject to a minimum GPA requirement.
This year’s scholarship application will close on Sunday, May 11th, 2025. Their applications will be reviewed by a panel, followed by an interview with the finalists.
The award which launched in 2016 was created to honor Carleton Williams CBE on his retirement as Chairman of the Board for Caribbean Bottling Company. Since then, this scholarship has impacted the lives of 10 students and their families.
The 2025 recipient will join CBC’s vibrant scholarship community, consisting of: Selena Cartwright, 2024; Timothy Kemp, 2023; Leonardo Sands, 2022; Maliyah Edgecombe, 2021; Angela Sands, 2020; Gabriel Hall, 2019; Kennedi Knowles and Anajah Culmer, 2018; Kailena Pinder, 2017 and 2016 inaugural scholarship winners, D’Ron & T’Ron Strapp on their academic journey.
Maliyah Edgecombe a tenth-grade student at Bishop Michael Eldon Highschool and the 2021 recipient shared how this scholarship affected her life.
“This scholarship has made a great impact on my life. It has not only given me financial support but motivation to pursue in my academic and career goals.”
With CBC’s support, Edgecombe can explore her talents and passions. She is a member of various clubs and organizations such as: Key Club, The Governor General Youth Award (GGYA), Student Christian Movement (SCM), tennis, Georgia School of Dance (ballet, jazz and drama) and she plays clarinet in her church’s band.
Edgecombe recalled the moment her dreams became reality when she was informed that she had been chosen as the 2021 Carleton Williams Scholarship recipient.
“When I was informed that I was chosen for this scholarship, I experienced a roller coaster of emotions; gratitude, excitement and relief! I was elated to know that I was chosen from a myriad of students.” she expressed.
Upon the opening of this year’s scholarship, Edgecombe shared her support to the hundreds of students who will be applying or considering it.
“I would like to encourage those who are applying for the scholarship that no matter the outcome, the effort you put into applying for this scholarship is already a step toward your future. Keep pushing forward, remember that hard work pays off and never stop believing in yourself!”
Application closes May 11th. For all those interested in applying or know someone who would benefit from this award visit www.cbcbahamas.com for complete details and to access the application.