The BVI Bar Association announced the creation of the Dame Janice Pereira Bar Association Scholarship on Thursday, October 24, 2024, during a cocktail reception in her honour at the Brandywine Restaurant. Photo: JTV Channel 55

Dame Janice M Pereira is in the Virgin Islands for a weeklong national celebration in her honour. Dame Pereira retired as Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and was recently appointed to the Privy Council. Photo: JTV Channel 55

According to Mrs Tamara Maduro, First Vice President of the BVI Bar Association, the scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance and encouragement to BVIslander and Belonger students wanting to access the profession and pursue their legal studies overseas.

Dame Janice M. Pereira, MBE is in the Virgin Islands (VI) for a weeklong national celebration in her honour. Dame Pereira retired as Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and was recently appointed to the Privy Council.

The announcement was made during a cocktail reception in her honour at the Brandywine Restaurant on Thursday, October 24, 2024. 

Surprise announcement

Dame Pereira was not aware that a scholarship in her name was going to be one of the highlights of the week of activities to celebrate the Virgin Islands' jurist.

“Although we have not discussed this with Dame Pereira before now, we could think of no one more suited to be honoured in this way. It is with immense pride and heartfelt respect that we, on behalf of the BVI Bar Association, announce the establishment of a scholarship in honour of Dame Janice Pereira, MBE,” Mrs Maduro said.

She added that the scholarship stands as a testament to Dame Pereira’s unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and profound impact on the legal landscape of our region.

Mrs Maduro called Dame Pereira someone who has been a “beacon of justice, guiding us with her wisdom, integrity, and visionary approach. Her contributions have not only shaped our judiciary but have also inspired countless individuals to pursue the noble path of law”.

Scholarship aims to continue Dame Pereira’s legacy

This scholarship aims to continue Dame Pereira’s legacy by supporting and nurturing the next generation of legal minds; providing aspiring law students with the opportunity to achieve their dreams and contribute to the legal profession with the same excellence and commitment exemplified by our guest of honour.

“We are confident that this scholarship will not only pay heed to her remarkable career but also create a lasting impact on the legal community, fostering a future filled with promise and potential.

"Dame Pereira, we thank you for your invaluable service and dedication. Through this scholarship, among many other marks you have left on our Virgin Islands, your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us for years to come,” Mrs Maduro stated.