JWN scholarship recipient aims to improve child healthcare

Every milestone in Monique Fenton’s journey represents more than academic success. It reflects unwavering faith, resilience, and the support of family, mentors and a community that believed in her potential.

A third-year medical student in the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, Fenton is driven by a passion for paediatric medicine and a commitment to leadership, service and nation-building.

Recently named a recipient of the JWN Foundation Scholarship, she continues to show how determination and compassion can turn adversity into opportunity.

Raised in the rural community of Flagaman, St Elizabeth, Fenton describes her childhood as one rich in love, values and meaningful relationships.

“My characteristics have been mainly shaped by my faith in God. I am a calm and hardworking individual who enjoys track and field, fishing, and simply staying home and relaxing,” she said.

She credits her adoptive mother with shaping the woman she has become.

“I grew up with my adoptive mom in Flagaman and it was amazing. She taught me the values I cherish even now, and is the reason I am studying medicine,” Fenton said.

Her life changed dramatically when she lost her adoptive mother while preparing to begin high school.

“That unfamiliarity, combined with the loss, was a difficult time for me. However, I had good people surrounding me, especially my siblings, church family, and well-wishers. That encouragement motivated me to do what my heart was set out to do,” Fenton said.

The experience strengthened her resilience and deepened her desire to give back.

“I have this sense of responsibility to pour into others because I know first-hand how important encouragement and support can be,” she said.

EMBRACING LEADERSHIP

At Hampton School, Fenton excelled academically while embracing leadership roles. She served as head girl, president of the Bible Quiz Club, president and vice-president of the 4-H Club, and treasurer of the Spanish Club. Her achievements included multiple Grade I passes at CSEC and CAPE, culminating in the Governor General’s Achievement Award in 2024.

“My academic journey was one of dedication, growth, and perseverance. I consistently worked hard while balancing leadership responsibilities and extracurricular activities,” she said.

Among her proudest achievements are serving as head girl, receiving the Governor General’s Achievement Award, earning outstanding examination results, and gaining admission to study medicine at UWI.

The path was not without challenges.

“I faced financial challenges, the loss of my adoptive mother, and family circumstances that sometimes made it difficult to focus on my goals. I overcame these challenges through faith, determination, and the support of my family, church community, teachers, and mentors,” she said.

Her motivation remains deeply personal.

“I want to become a physician and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I am also motivated by the sacrifices others have made to support me. Their belief in me encourages me to work hard and make the most of every opportunity,” Monique shared.

That determination led her to apply for the JWN Foundation Scholarship.

“The financial demands of medical school are significant, and I knew that receiving support would help me continue my studies with less financial stress. The foundation’s commitment to education and youth development also aligns closely with my own values,” she said.

Learning she had been selected was both emotional and affirming.

“I felt extremely grateful, humbled, and excited. It reassured me that my hard work and perseverance had been recognised, and motivated me to continue striving for excellence,” she said.

Beyond the classroom, Fenton has distinguished herself through service. Her volunteer work began in her community through summer camps and back-to-school initiatives at Pedro Plains Primary School. She later served as assistant secretary of the Pedro Plains Community Development Committee, a Sunday school teacher, a volunteer at Bethlehem Moravian College’s library, and a tutor with the Mona Heights After-School Achievement Programme.

At UWI, she has expanded her impact through student leadership. She has served as deputy external affairs chairperson of Rex Nettleford Hall and currently serves as female hall representative and safety officer for the Faculty of Medical Sciences MBBS programme.

Her commitment has brought further recognition, including appointments as an ambassador for the I Believe Initiative and the National Council on Drug Abuse. Most recently, she was crowned Miss Rex 2026, giving her another platform from which to advocate for student welfare, community outreach and social awareness.

Looking ahead, Fenton’s ambitions extend well beyond earning a medical degree.

“My long-term goal is to become a paediatrician and provide high-quality healthcare to children, particularly those from underserved communities. I also hope to participate in research, community outreach initiatives, and advocate for improved child health across Jamaica,” she said.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com