A programme has awarded $12,000 in scholarships to six candy stripers.

The Hospitals Auxiliary of Bermuda offered nursing student Mishale Corday $5,000 to complete a clinical laboratory science programme at Howard University in the US.

Pat Cerra, the president of HAB, noted Mishale’s dedication, in particular having worked with HAB for four years and offering 112 hours of community service — most of which was done during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Cerra said: “Her interest in the medical field was piqued when the global shortage of healthcare professionals impacted her as a 12-year-old in Toronto, Canada.

“Mishale says nursing is only the start of her education journey.

“Ultimately, her plans are to be a doctor in the field of neurology.

“She intends to return to Bermuda upon attaining her nursing degree to gain experience in healthcare while applying to medical school.”

Alongside Mishale, the HAB gave $2,500 each to Gabriele Young and Sascha Burchall.

Gabirele will earn a Bachelor of Management at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, while Sascha will study health sciences, kinesiology and health promotion at Sheridan College, in Ontario, Canada.

Sierra DeSousa was given a $2,000 cheque to assist with her studies for a Bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice at the University of Leeds in the UK.

Candy stripers Adasia Trott and Arianna Smith were given special financial awards for their “outstanding commitment to the programme” during the pandemic, according to an HAB spokeswoman.

HAB scholarships are awarded annually to candy stripers enrolled in the programme for a minimum of two years.

The cash can be used in Bermuda or overseas, and can only be applied to the cost of education.

The HAB programme currently has 93 candy stripers and takes in about 40 stripers annually.

Interested applicants can apply in writing and must do so before their 14th birthday.

For more information on volunteering, e-mail jane.wright@bhb.bm.