Seaside Rotary Scholarships
Every year, the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our community by providing scholarships to local students who aspire to further their education. These scholarships are more than just financial aid—they are a lifeline for students who dream of completing high school (preparatoria) and even pursuing a university degree, but who might not have the means to do so without support.
Through a valuable alliance with The KKiS Project (Keeping Kids in School), we have been able to offer scholarships to dozens of deserving students who would otherwise face significant barriers to continuing their education.
The KKiS Project, founded by Gayle Collins, a Charter Member of Seaside Rotary, works tirelessly to identify students who are motivated, capable, and committed to maintaining the high academic standards required for scholarship eligibility.
Our Seaside Scholars often excel beyond high school, with many being accepted into universities to study in fields they are passionate about. Recognizing their potential and determination, we extend our support beyond high school, continuing to provide tuition assistance as these students navigate the challenges of higher education. Our goal is to see them graduate and step confidently into their chosen careers, contributing positively to their families and communities. To date, the club has contributed over $53,000 USD in scholarship money and school supplies. But we can do more with your help.
How Can You Help?
Supporting a Seaside Scholar is an investment in the future of Playa del Carmen. Whether you wish to sponsor a student directly or contribute to our scholarship fund, your support can make a world of difference. By helping a student overcome financial barriers, you’re not just assisting in their education—you’re empowering them to achieve their dreams and become a beacon of hope in their community.
If you’re interested in making a difference, please reach out to Seaside Rotary to learn more about how you can get involved. Contact us at info@playaseasiderotary.org for more details.
Seaside Rotary Impact: A Message From One of Our Graduates
She shared this story with KKIS about her life as a university graduate.
“I want to share how all the sacrifices I made during my studies – the sleepless nights, the canceled plans with friends, and even the challenge of studying online during the pandemic – were truly worth it. Throughout my chareer and especially during these past two years working in IT, I’ve realized how much I’ve grown. University gave me a foundation, but the real world has pushed me to expand my knowledge, improve my skills and strengthen my ability to solve problems.
In my job, I work mostly with databases, which I really enjoy, and I’ve learned to explore, configure servers, clean and maintain networks far beyond what I learned in school. These experiences have shaped me in ways I never expected.
Today, I find myself living something I never imagined: traveling abroad for work. I’m currently in the Dominican Republic on my second international IT assignment, and soon — depending on how the project continues — I may even visit Jamaica. This still feels unreal to me. Two years ago, right after graduating, I would have never thought I’d be working outside of Mexico.
Learning English has also opened many doors for me. Even though people say “English opens opportunities” over and over, I’ve learned firsthand that it is absolutely true.
Most importantly, I feel deep gratitude toward The KKIS Project. Without their support, I don’t think I would have reached university, let alone be where I am today. I truly believe people cross our paths for a purpose, and KKIS has fulfilled that purpose in my life — helping me grow, study, and achieve things I never imagined. I know there are many other scholarship students like me who are also reaching goals they once thought impossible.
I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
