Shian Wellington‑O’Connor Awarded Second Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship

The Alex Panton Foundation is proud to announce that Caymanian student Shian Wellington‑O’Connor has been awarded the second Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship, established to honour the memory and aspirations of Addison Kelly by supporting the next generation of mental health professionals.

Shian is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University in Canada. His goal is to become a licensed counselling psychologist, focusing on underserved communities — particularly youth, men, and individuals facing trauma, anxiety, and substance use challenges.

“My journey through uncertainty and limited options has shown me how deeply our sense of purpose impacts our mental health,” Shian shared. “I want to help others find direction, confidence, and fulfilment in their careers and lives.”

Rhonda Kelly, Addison’s mother, scholarship founder, and board member of the Alex Panton Foundation, said:

“This is exactly what Addi would have wanted: to see more Caymanians and others like her entering the mental health field. By supporting and inspiring the next generation of mental health professionals, we are keeping her dream alive and creating the change she so genuinely wished to see.”

The Addison Kelly Mental Health Education Fund continues to provide opportunities for Caymanians passionate about mental health, carrying forward Addison’s vision to create a more compassionate, understanding, and supportive community.

For more details about the scholarship and how to apply, please visit the Addison Kelly Mental Health Education Fund section on our website.