Global Development Scholars Program
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The Lucas-Kennedy Foundation’s Global Development Scholars Program (GDP) nurtures the next generation of leaders committed to public service, social impact, and international development by supporting talented students at U.S. and international universities. Each year, up to four scholarships are awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a clear commitment to development-focused careers.
In addition to financial support, the program offers mentorship, internships, experiential learning, and opportunities to collaborate with the Foundation’s Strategic Team on research and project design in areas such as health, education, commerce, agriculture, climate resilience, and technology. By combining funding with professional exposure and hands-on experience, the program equips emerging leaders with the skills and networks to drive inclusive and sustainable development across Africa and the global Diaspora.
In addition to financial support, the program offers mentorship, internships, experiential learning, and opportunities to collaborate with the Foundation’s Strategic Team on research and project design in areas such as health, education, commerce, agriculture, climate resilience, and technology. By combining funding with professional exposure and hands-on experience, the program equips emerging leaders with the skills and networks to drive inclusive and sustainable development across Africa and the global Diaspora.
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Live the Dream Abroad: Launching Global Career
The Live the Dream Abroad Internship Program goes beyond the classroom, funding real-world, international experiences that prepare young leaders from the African Diaspora for impactful global careers.
Whether it's travel, housing, or living expenses, the Lucas-Kennedy Foundation removes financial barriers so students can access internships that open doors worldwide. Each awardee is also matched with a dedicated mentor, ensuring guidance, growth, and long-term success.
Recipients are selected based on the strength of their proposed opportunity and financial need, because talent should never be limited by access.
Whether it's travel, housing, or living expenses, the Lucas-Kennedy Foundation removes financial barriers so students can access internships that open doors worldwide. Each awardee is also matched with a dedicated mentor, ensuring guidance, growth, and long-term success.
Recipients are selected based on the strength of their proposed opportunity and financial need, because talent should never be limited by access.
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Jakarah Porter
Lucas-Kennedy Foundation 2020-2021 Intern
Jakarah Porter, the Lucas-Kennedy Foundation 2020-2021 Intern is a graduate of the Charleston School of Law in the U.S. State of South Carolina. Ms. Porter also holds a bachelor degree in business economics and finance from Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana; and, she is a licensed mortgage loan originator. Jakarah seized the opportunity to intern with the Lucas-Kennedy Foundation to gain experience in international affairs with a not for profit organization. During her internship, Ms. Porter researched the federal and state requirements for registering non-profit organizations and completed the registration process for the Foundation. Jakarah also researched graphic arts firms and website designers. Ms. Porter plans to pursue a career in real estate and business law with a focus on financial fraud. Her work with the Foundation provided exposure to the possibility of international opportunities in her chosen field. As Jakara leaves the Foundation, she shares the following as key learnings: viable solutions are always possible if you remain positive and work transparently. Cast a wide net to expose young people to careers in international affairs.