Last-ditch effort to help dental student complete studies
The family of Jada Browne, a final-year dental student at The University of the West Indies (Mona), has decided that the time has come to put all pride away and seek the assistance of the public in helping her across the final hurdle.
Browne is due to sit her final exams this week, but her greatest challenge right now is getting financial clearance from the university. Her younger sister, Kyla-Nia Browne, set up a GoFundMe on Sunday, seeking CDN$21,000 (approximately J$2.4 million) to clear all expenses for Browne, who she describes as "one of the kindest souls I know".
"My sister Jada has always been the kind of person who figures things out on her own. She rarely asks for help, even when the weight gets heavy. She's now in the final stretch of dental school, so close to fulfilling the dream she's worked tirelessly for, and I've never known anyone who loves what they do more," Kyla-Nia said.
She added that Browne "has consistently excelled academically" and commended her for pushing through "even after the devastating loss of our father during her time in school". Browne and Kyla-Nia are the daughters of the late Noel Browne, musician and producer extraordinaire, and also former member of the 70's sibling group, The Browne Bunch. He died from a heart attack at his home in the United Kingdom on September 17, 2022. He was 65. His widow, Andrea 'Andi' Green-Browne, told THE STAR that they have exhausted every possible avenue.
"Yes, we were very reluctant to go this route ... but we just have to put pride aside and have faith and trust in God that this will work out. At the start of the course, Jada got a scholarship from Carreras and her father was able to send the other portion of the school fee. We were hoping that Jada would have been able to go on work and travel, but students who do the doctor of dental surgery degree get two weeks holiday in the summer, and they have to use that time to catch up on school work," Green-Browne stated.
She explained that her own credit was insufficient to secure a loan for her daughter from the Students' Loan Bureau, and shared that Browne also received partial funding assistance from various avenues, including the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies. Browne herself is remaining upbeat.
"The day I'm able to give back to students who are fighting for their dreams, just like I am now, will be the beginning of my legacy. Because I know what it feels like to need help and I want to be the reason someone else doesn't give up," she said.
In 2023, Browne entered the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's Festival Queen Competition. Wearing the sash Miss Dream Wedding Services, she was crowned Miss Kingston and St Andrew second runner-up.
"I want to see my sister walk across that stage. I want to see her dream come true. And I'm asking you to help me make that happen. Every contribution, no matter how small, will bring her closer to the finish line. Help me help her become Dr Jada Browne," Kyla-Nia said.
Persons wishing to assist Jada Browne, may donate to the GoFundMe at