The Mothers of Letisha and Charlene wrote the following words to express their thoughts on the importance of the Education Award Scheme.

Marcia Shakespeare

I Marcia Shakespeare, mother of Letisha, feel it significant to keep the memory of Letisha and Charlene alive. Although the girls lost their lives in a very disturbing way something constructive should come out of it. During the time of their killings they were both undergraduates at Josiah Mason College; the girls were stopped in their tracks of achieving their goals. I feel positives should come out of this negatives surroundings. The way forward is to help students. This project of funding students in demanding times seems very fitting to carry on their memories.

Beverley Thomas

I Beverley Thomas, mother of Charlene Ellis, feel that the Letisha and Charlene Education Awards scheme is very important. I knew that I wanted to do something in memory of the two girls, so when I heard the proposal for this education award I felt it was a brilliant idea, as the two girls were aspiring students. For many young people wanting to further their academic achievements and personal progression, financial aid can be pivotal, and so this award could be most beneficial to them. I feel it is important to encourage students and to help overcome barriers to learning, and therefore feel that the award will definitely be a positive contribution to the community.