Ava Chow-Blyden Earns OUTBermuda Bursary
OUTBermuda announced that Ava Chow-Blyden has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 OUTBermuda Bursary and she will be awarded a $10,000 bursary to support her pursuit of a degree in Psychology at Clark Atlanta University.
A spokesperson said, “Ava, a passionate advocate for mental health within the Black and LGBTQ+ communities, was chosen based on her exceptional drive, resilience, and dedication to making a positive impact in Bermuda. Despite facing challenges and being advised to lower her expectations, Ava has remained steadfast in her ambitions.”
“The OUTBermuda Bursary was started in 2023 as part of the charity’s education and empowerment mandate and is awarded annually to a deserving member of the LGBTQ+ community in Bermuda, with a focus on financial need and potential to contribute positively to the community.
“The bursary reflects OUTBermuda’s mission to promote the wellbeing, dignity, and security of the LGBTQ community by supporting education and the pursuit of personal and professional goals.
“Ava will also join OUTBermuda’s Board as an official observer for one year, where she will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience and contribute to the organization’s ongoing efforts.”
OUTBermuda Board Director, Jameka Smith commented, “We are incredibly proud to support Ava in her academic journey. Her passion for mental health and commitment to making a difference in Bermuda embodies the values we hold dear at OUTBermuda.”
“This bursary gave me the extra hope I needed to reassure me that I can make and achieve my goals,” Ms Chow-Blyden shared. She also expressed her gratitude to OUTBermuda, saying, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to use this opportunity as a tool to help me get where I want to be.”
For more information, visit www.outbermuda.com.
