Three Students Launch Back-to-School Drive
College students Malay Robinson, Christopher Jackson, and Andreaz Glasgow are organizing a back-to-school drive to provide essential learning materials for Bermuda’s youth.
A spokesperson said, “This initiative, which began with an idea from Andreaz Glasgow, aims to address the growing need for accessible learning materials among Bermuda’s youth.”
“I saw the need,” said Glasgow, who is currently studying at Long Island University. “I wanted to pour back into the village that has poured so munch into me.” Glasgow’s sentiment resonates deeply with the community, where access to essential school supplies can be a significant challenge for many families due to cost.
The spokesperson said, “Each backpack kit provided in this drive includes:
- 17-inch backpack
- 1 pack of 5 crayons
- 1 sharpener with dome cover
- 2 pink erasers
- 1 two-pocket folder
- 1 glue stick
- 1 highlighter
- 70-page spiral notebook
- 1 pack of 3 pencils
- 1 pack of 3 pens [both blue & black]
- 12-inch ruler
- 1 pencil case
Malay Robinson[21], pursuing K-12 English Teacher Education, reflected on her reasons for joining the drive, “Education is the most impactful pillar to evoke change in Bermuda. This drive allows me to give back to the system that gave so much to me and my family. I want to alleviate some of the financial burdens on parents during back-to-school time and highlight the importance of giving back to the institutions that support us.”
Inspired by her late mother, Ms. Lori Kristine Robinson, and her former English teacher, Mrs. Sandra Burrows, Robinson is passionate about sharing her love for literature. “I want my future students to know that I care about them even before they enter my classroom and that they always have someone who believes in them,” she added.
Andreaz Glasgow [20], a student at Long Island University pursuing dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and International Relations and Diplomacy, on a five-year track to earn his MBA, shared this, “I chose these majors because I believe political science and business go hand-in-hand. I’m passionate about policy and being a change agent within my community and any organization I work with. The ever-growing cost of living in Bermuda has created a gap in our community. My friends and I decided to save up this summer and donate backpacks to help bridge that gap.”
Glasgow’s commitment to giving back is driven by a belief in doing good regardless of recognition. “I hope that by helping, whether big or small, I can change a student’s or family’s life in a positive way,” he said. “My ultimate goal is to return to Bermuda after my studies. While I aim to earn my doctorate, right now I’m focused on completing my master’s and deciding on my next steps from there.”
Christopher Jackson[21], a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Mental Health from Eastern Michigan University, is exploring graduate pathways in the United States. Reflecting on his motivation, he said, “I’m doing this because, working with young people, I truly see the need to give back and be that shining star they may not have in their life.
“Little things like having resources such as pens, paper, and a backpack can have a big impact on someone’s educational journey.”
Jackson, who returned to Bermuda to attend the Berkeley Institute and graduated with merit from Bermuda College, aims to pursue a doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Educational Research. “I want to make a positive impact on the young people of Bermuda and contribute to making a better community for all,” he added.
The spokesperson said, “Jackson has demonstrated a strong commitment to his field through his current position with the Department of Child and Family Services and his internship at Solstice, where he co-facilitated online and in-person groups, assisting with various treatments for young people. Belinda Henderson, a senior clinical psychology assistant at Solstice, praised Jackson’s dedication, calling him ‘a self-aware young man who is intrinsically motivated, flexible, cooperative, and dependable.’
“Parents or guardians interested in reserving a backpack can click https://form.jotform.com/242056034822045. Additionally, a limited number of gifts courtesy of Mr. Glasgow will be donated to parents and guardians who come to collect, and there will be a special giveaway for students to receive school shoes, courtesy of Malay Robinson & family.
“The drive, set to distribute around 160 backpacks – 20 of which will be going to Mr. Jacksons clients at the Department of Child and Family Services, is a testament to the power of community and the importance of giving back. It serves as an inspiration for others to contribute to the welfare and education of Bermuda’s youth.
“For more information or to contribute to the back-to-school drive, please contact Bermuda Community Outreach at bermudacommunityoutreach@gmail.com.”
