Cayman-based finance guru gives back to primary school in Manchester

Principal Sharon Anderson of New Forest Primary and Infant School in Manchester is emphasising that educating the nation’s children can be significantly enhanced through partnerships and collaborations.

Anderson’s comments come on the heels of a recent $300,000 donation from alumnus Odale Mulgrave.

Anderson, who has been at the helm of the institution since 2015, said the donation would benefit 497 students at the institution.

“Odale asked me if there was anything the school needed, and I said a school sign, and the cost is $700,000. I made a deposit of $300,000, and he said he would match that amount, and he handed over his cheque of $300,000 to the school,” said a grateful Anderson.

Mulgrave, citing a sense of responsibility to show gratitude to the institution that helped shape his life, told The Gleaner: “This institution provided me with more than just academic knowledge. It instilled in me critical thinking, discipline, and a sense of purpose.”

He added that the school provided him with foundational education, mentorship, and friendships that were instrumental in his growth.

Mulgrave, a finance guru serving as head of enforcement for the beneficial ownership transparency of legal persons in the Ministry of Financial Service in The Cayman Islands, said his philanthropic efforts are driven by a deep belief in the power of formal and informal education, equity, and community, positing that he believes in the ripple effect of giving, where one gift can inspire others and create lasting change.

“I hope my gift serves as an inspiration for the current and future students to do well and pay it forward when they are in a position to do so. I also want them to know that others are rooting for their success,” he told The Gleaner.

Additionally, Mulgrave committed to awarding the top and most improved students at the 2025 graduation ceremony, a move he posits shows his commitment to the school’s legacy.

When quizzed on his advice to other alumni about joining similar efforts, Mulgrave gave a charge to reflect on the role their alma mater played in their journey and consider how they can contribute to its legacy.

“Supporting our alma mater is not just about giving back. It’s about investing in the future and ensuring that others have access to the same transformative experiences we had,” he said.

Anderson, while acknowledging the significance of Mulgrave’s contribution, highlighted the school’s ongoing needs.

The school’s next major project, she said, is the renovation of the playfield, aimed at nurturing students’ interest in sports.

“That is a project that is well needed. Two years ago, there was an estimate done, and it was over $2 million. It’s a 200-metre track, and there’s also a cricket pitch, and a section for track and field and football,” the principal explained.

According to the principal, several of the students are beneficiaries under the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH), and occasionally, said students require donations to support them with essential items such as books, uniforms, and other necessities.

“Additionally, we need assistance with maintenance and upkeep of our facilities, including painting the buildings and providing adequate garbage receptacles. We appreciate any support our past students can offer as their contributions play a vital role in creating a more conducive learning environment, ensuring our students’ safety and providing them with the necessary resources to thrive,” Anderson told The Gleaner.

She proudly highlighted the school’s academic achievements, noting that the students consistently performed well. She also shared a notable success story, revealing that one of her students had been awarded a prestigious seven-year scholarship from a renowned banking institution.

According to Anderson, with the right support, New Forest Primary and Infant School is empowered to nurture and shape the country’s future leaders and citizens.

olivia.brown@gleanerjm.com