RBC pleased with first scholarship programme Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, Wednesday, March 27, 2014: Just over four years ago, RBC made a three-year commitment of $1.3 million to the Daren Ganga Foundation. The funding was in support of its pilot programme, designed to help children in rural communities access opportunities to aid their development in sports and the arts while supporting their progress in school. The Daren Ganga Foundation views its inaugural three-year scholarship programme as a huge success in many areas. Thirteen of the 15 students who entered the programme emerged, not only with a certificate after graduating in January, but with confidence and the life skills that will set them on a path where their ambitions can meet opportunity head on. They gained financial support to assist them academically and in extracurricular activities such as sport and culture, as well as mentorship and guidance throughout their journey, which started in 2011. RBC representatives attended the graduation ceremony and were thrilled at the growth of the students and some of their breath-taking performances at the event. RBC’s Area Vice President – Personal Banking Simone Edwards, said the bank gave its support because it believed in the Foundation’s efforts to help children from rural areas in their holistic development. The programme is also in keeping with RBC’s goal of investing in future generations, as it has done over the years with its Young Leaders programme. “It gives so much hope for the future to see young children develop into mature individuals that will be our leaders of tomorrow,” Edwards said. Daren Ganga, the former Trinidad and Tobago cricket captain and West Indies batsman, was very delighted with the impact in the first running of the scholarship programme. “We have touched over 500 kids outside of our scholarship programme,” said Ganga, “and we have been able to show real and meaningful support for the young children who are talented and may not have the resources to develop from an academic and extra-curricular standpoint.” He added: “When you have left an indelible mark on a young person who can reach even further and achieve great things, there is no greater feeling in the world of knowing you have made a difference in the life of this person.” Hugh Henderson, the Foundation’s non-executive chairman, also lauded RBC’s contribution. Said Henderson, “RBC’s decision to fund the three years has paid off in spades and you should be very proud of your vision and interest in young people in rural areas.” - END- Photo Caption: Simone Edwards, Area Vice President – Personal Banking, RBC Royal Bank, presents a certificate to one of the graduates while Daren Ganga, Chairman of the DGF Foundation looks on.. Media Contact: Nicole Duke-Westfield Regional Manager, External Communications Corporate Communications & Caribbean Banking, RBC Tel: 868-625-7288 ext. 80305 [email protected] 2 .