Women to Women Awards 8 New University Scholarships
Tara A. Spears
There are only winners even if some applicants don’t receive awards. The range of talent and variety of goals is impressive-the future holds such promise for the women of Jaltemba Bay. Although the annual Woman to Woman fundraiser generated unprecedented income, the large number of requests exceed the available funds.
Some were shy, some were verbose yet all the young women wanted to make a good impression during the interview in hopes of scoring a university scholarship. Each eager applicant is dreaming big plus has worked hard for years to earn above average grades to qualify. Most of the applicants are the first in her family to complete high school and attempt university. All of the girls have imagined a career; all have worked for a better life for herself and her family through education. This weekend, each of these exceptional students and her family will be celebrating. The sponsors and supporters and the committee of Women to Women feel pride and joy for her achievement. While the journey to adulthood is not an easy or quick process, each of these motivated women is willing to sacrifice to attain her goal.
It is very impressive that teens growing up in a rural, small town have such a cosmopolitan attitude (all are studying multiple languages,) and that they have a passion for environmental issues. Some examples of the ideas these bright young women want to achieve: “I plan to use my training as to open daycare in town because there isn’t one. ” Another applicant said, “I want to use my ability analyze and think (psychology) to help people who face tough situations in their family, their work, their environment and help them have a better quality of life..” The dental student aspires “to create a place where people that do not have resources can get dental care for free.” While tourism (hospitality and hotel management) dominates the community as an employer, most of the applicants were globally aware, “I will participate in sustainable community projects, not just as a visitor attraction but for the inhabitants of this community to benefit.” Every young lady selected had such mature goals-not just to begin university in August, but to be looking beyond completing their studies towards making a difference by using their training.
W2W applauds the families for nurturing the dreams and providing encouragement to their daughter. It is also a tribute to the teachers at the two feeder school, Conalep and La Penita Preppa (high schools) for motivating and providing the knowledge that enables these students to succeed.
This weekend 8 families in Jaltemba Bay area are celebrating their daughter’s achievement and her bright future. We on the Women to Women Committee, celebrate with the students and thank all of our loyal guests, sponsors, and local businesses that donate auction items; it is the support of many people that enables the annual Fashion Show to provide this financial funding to the community. It is a huge effort that has huge results: more than 99 Jaltemba Bay young women (in addition to the new 8) have gone to university since 2002.
It is important to know that every applicant is judged by the same criteria and to be selected she has exceeded the eligibility criteria: “To be eligible: Students must be a resident of Jaltemba Bay area, have outstanding grades 8.5 or higher, show leadership qualities; demonstrate financial need; and she must be either currently enrolled or accepted into a recognized post-secondary institution for the upcoming academic year.” Unfortunately, we are not able to fund every student that applies no matter how motivated and deserving.
In 2024, all of the applicants are deserving and motivated; since the selection is competitive, the scholarship awards went to applicants with the highest cumulative average. Sadly, we had to turn away those with a 9.2 average due to lack of funds. W2W has provided the opportunity and the students have responded. It’s such a joy to have so many graduates each year- that’s the proof of success.
As many of our supporters are preparing to return home, they can feel proud that their contribution and fun time at the Woman to Woman Fashion Show continues working. Plan to attend the 2025 event. The Women to Women Committee has some exciting ideas guaranteed to make the next Show memorable.
Congratulations to all the students that applied and those that receive an award.Visit our website, www.mujeresamujeres.com for update
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