Old Harbour student athlete grateful for overseas aid

Natalie Ho, a Jamaican-born US national, made the commitment to assist the talented athlete, after hearing of his challenges.

Walters, a national rugby player and current captain of the school team, will enter his final year minus the psychological financial burden that weighs on his mind in the past.

The upper sixth form student said: “First I thought it was joke gone wrong, but then Natalie spoke to me on the phone and she sounded genuine so, I was very grateful and elated. God really does answers prayers because back to school shopping takes a strain on my parents.”

Ho, a 1993 Old Harbour High School graduate, has embarked on a philanthropic drive along with other friends of like mind, to aid needy children in her hometown in Jamaica.

Through this initiative over $30,000 will go towards Walters’ tuition in addition to other expenses.

Walters, with 10 CSEC subjects to his name, confessed he has thought about quit playing his beloved sport, due to his financial challenges, while trying to balance academics and sport.

He described his performance in lower sixth form as “favourable” but believes “going into a new school year and don’t have to be worrying about my tuition I’m sure my grades will be exceptional on my next report”.

The dual act of balancing academics with sport will continue for Walters who dream of attaining a university degree and playing professional rugby.

It’s the way he hopes to repay the faith and sacrifice his parents made investing in him, and now Ho, who intends to continue supporting the athlete when he begins his tertiary education. 

“I choose the book over the gun because crime is not the best way out of poverty,” he said. “Seeing how hard my parents have to work to send my siblings and I to school and the sacrifices they make for us. I have to ensure I make them proud for all they have done for me.”

As for other students experiencing similar challenges, he urges them to never stop trying. 

“God doesn't give a man what he can't manage. Whenever you have the opportunity to be at school make the best use of it,” he said. “Ensure you find a friend who encourages and motivates you and wants the best for you.

“Giving up is not the answer. Dream big and don't tell yourself you can't. Think more positive things in life and you'll see greatness.”