Addison Kelly Mental Health Education Fund (AKMHEF)

Addison Kelly Mental Health Education Fund (AKMHEF) is available to eligible students interested in pursuing a post-graduate degree in the field of mental health from an accredited overseas institution.

Addi’s Story

Addison Kelly was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression at age 15. These mental illnesses were directly caused by trauma she experienced between the ages of 8 to 10 years old when she was sexually abused. The pain she suffered took her on a difficult journey and she struggled with self-harm and other mental health disorders. She was then diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Even as she fought daily for her mental health, she maintained the most positive attitude and kept a smile on her face.

When Addi was in treatment, she spoke often about wanting to study to become a therapist and/or psychiatrist when she got older so she could help others who were experiencing similar challenges, especially in Cayman, her beloved home. She had researched colleges which offered programmes in these fields, and in her more hopeful moments was looking forward to making a difference in her world. However, on Tuesday, 8 February 2022, Addi succumbed to her illnesses, taking her life at just 16-years old.

This scholarship was created by the Kelly family to enable persons in Cayman who have a desire to help people struggling with mental illnesses do so. Addi had a team of incredible therapists and doctors who helped her through many challenging times, but we know that there is an urgent need in Cayman for more trained specialists in this field.

The Scholarship

The Addison Kelly Mental Health Education Fund (AKMHEF) is awarded to individuals seeking a post-graduate degree in the field of mental health from an accredited overseas institution, with annual renewal subject to academic performance. It is administered through the Alex Panton Foundation (APF) with support from Addi’s family and offers CI$25,000 per annum for up to four years for Caymanians to pursue post-graduate studies in the fields of psychology, psychiatry or psychotherapy. It is awarded every two years (biennially) and recipients must return to work in Cayman for the number of years for which the scholarship was given. The opportunity also includes a mentorship with a doctor level psychologist/mental health provider to support the navigation of this journey.

For more information, please contact assistance@alexpantonfoundation.ky.

• Strong communicator with good interpersonal skills, work ethic and character
• In strong academic standing with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Possess an undergraduate degree in a related field
• Accepted to a competitively ranked and accredited institution to pursue studies in a programme in psychology/psychotherapy

• Caymanian
• Aged 20 – 35
• Resident in the Cayman Islands for four years prior to applying
• Ready to commence studies in August/September 2025