Amariah Brathwaite is the Central Bank of Barbados’ 2024 SPISE Scholar

Amariah Brathwaite, a 17-year-old Harrison College student, is the Central Bank of Barbados’ 2024 SPISE (Students Programme for Innovation in Science and Engineering) scholarship awardee. 

This summer, she will take part in a five-week programme for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) students. During this programme the students will learn university-level calculus, biochemistry and physics. They will also undertake several projects involving computer programming, robotics, electronics, and renewable energy, while learning from experienced industry professionals.

Amariah, who is currently studying Chemistry, Biology, and Physics for CAPE, is leaning towards a career in biomedical engineering influenced by the loss of her father to cancer. She wants to make a lasting impact by helping persons who suffer from diseases that are not easily treatable through contributing to the future of the technology behind genetic and stem cell treatment. 

Remarkably, Amariah has been involved in STEM since the age of six, taking part in various STEM-related camps, competitions, and initiatives throughout her educational journey and receiving numerous awards and achievements along the way.

However, earning the scholarship to attend SPISE felt special.

“When I got the news, I literally screamed. The fact that I got into the programme really opened my eyes as to how much I am really capable of accomplishing academically.”

Despite her obvious passion for science, this multi-talented student is not solely focused on academic achievement. She believes that “school is not only in the classroom. There are so many ways to learn.” She is a member of the Harrison College Steel Orchestra, a patrol leader in the Girl Guides, Governor of the Caribbean Atlantic District for Key Club International, and has received her bronze and silver Duke of Edinburgh awards.

“I find a lot of joy in taking part in extracurricular activities, both at school and within my communities,” she explains. 

Amariah’s drive comes from her faith in God and her desire to eventually take care of her family, who have selflessly invested in and supported her over the years.

As she prepares to start the programme, Amariah is expressing her excitement and gratitude to the Central Bank and to the Caribbean Science Foundation, the organisers of SPISE. She commends them for their ongoing support of the youth, and hopes that they continue to provide these invaluable initiatives. “SPISE is a great opportunity to connect and network with other students across the region,” she said. “I’m also looking forward to learning from all the experts in all of the different fields.”

Amariah encourages students to chase their dreams. “Believe in yourself, believe in your abilities. Confidence is key,” she said, “And to the public; continue to push, encourage, and support young people in anything that they set out to achieve.”

SPISE takes place at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill. After the programme, the Foundation helps its participants to obtain internship opportunities with regional and international STEM companies and guides them in creating university applications. Many of the past participants have gone on to attend prestigious universities, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, Yale, Cornell, and Columbia.