The SFP Pocket Rocket Foundation Academic Scholarship Fund

Shelly-Ann started out in humble beginnings, but, due to the kindness of a stranger who saw greatness in her allowed her to attend The Wolmer’s Trust High School For Girls and receive financial assistance towards her high school education. This eased the financial struggles of Shelly-Ann’s mother and provided the steppingstone for her to pursue tertiary education. Shelly-Ann was the first person in her family to earn a college degree. She graduated from the University of Technology with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child and Adolescent Development with honors. Shelly-Ann went on to become one of the most successful Sprinters in the world, as an eight-time Olympic medalist, affectionately known as “the Pocket Rocket”.

Through donations and fundraising endeavors, the Foundation offers financial assistance to high school student-athletes who represent their school in any sporting discipline. Academic scholarships are also given to supplement tuition and books. Annual renewals of scholarships are based on academic performance whilst competing, ensuring a balance between sports and education. This promotes the premise that a solid education must never be compromised by athletic involvement and competition. The Foundation also does an annual Christmas Treat in the Waterhouse Community, the area where Shelly-Ann grew up, and more recently, the community of Ewarton. Hundreds of children are feted with a full day of food and fun in the spirit of Christmas.