Rita Marley Foundation Awards 2025-2026 Merline Heholt Scholarship Recipients, Expands Legacy with New Endowment

Donna Leeds (L), daughter of Merline Heholt, presents the scholarship award to this year’s recipient, Sabrina Campbell.

The Rita Marley Foundation proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 Merline Heholt Scholarship, continuing a four-year tradition of empowering young Jamaican women pursuing business studies. This year, two exceptional students from the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) have been selected; Sabrina Campbell, Bachelor of Business Administration and Shamona Johnson, Bachelor of Business Administration.

(From left) Alicia Williams, Manager of the Bob and Rita Marley Foundations and Donna Leeds, daughter of Merline Heholt, share words of encouragement to recipient Sabrina Campbell.

The scholarship, now in its fourth year, recognizes women who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to advancing Jamaica’s business landscape. In addition to awarding this year’s scholarships, the Foundation has also launched the Merline Heholt Endowment, a dedicated fund designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of this initiative. The endowment honors Merline Heholt, a trailblazing Jamaican businesswoman whose entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire future generations.

“This scholarship represents the strength and vision of Jamaican women who dare to lead and innovate. Through the Merline Heholt Endowment, we are not only supporting today’s scholars but also building a lasting resource for generations to come,” said Alicia Williams, Manager of the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation.

Originally established for UTech students, the scholarship has now expanded to benefit women enrolled in accredited business programs across Jamaica. This evolution ensures that ambitious young women, regardless of their institution, have the opportunity to access support and mentorship on their academic and professional journeys.