Republic Bank Initiative helps student in need

Thanks to Republic Bank’s Back to School Promotion, university student Uriah Smith is getting some much-needed assistance.

The online initiative encouraged people to nominate someone they felt was deserving of a new Samsung Galaxy Tablet to assist with their education. Ke-anne Evans’ name was randomly drawn and, thanks to her nomination, Smith won the device.

Smith’s story made headlines several months ago when he shared his experience with homelessness and other challenges. Despite his difficulties, he still attained a 3.2 GPA and is a stellar student. His story of perseverance and academic success in the face of adversity prompted Evans to nominate him.

Noting that he was a former classmate at Combermere, she said, “I saw this competition and immediately thought of him.” Evans said she thought the tablet would be “a thoughtful gift to encourage him to keep up with his studies despite the challenges he is facing.”

“I was quite surprised when I found out I won the tablet,” Smith recounted, “because I wasn’t aware of the giveaway. However, an old school friend who knew I was having some difficulties contacted me and told me she entered my name for a tablet, and I won.

It was very unexpected and heartwarming for me.”
A grateful Smith offered a sincere thank you to both Evans and Republic Bank for the device. (PR)