About FACE
Fund A Child’s Education (FACE), a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of Guyanese children through education. At FACE, we believe every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of their socio-economic background. Our mission is to provide educational support and unlock the potential within less fortunate students by securing funding and mentorship to sponsor their academic needs.
FACE is passionately committed to creating a future where all children thrive and succeed. Every child has a right to education, and we firmly believe that financial barriers should never be a hindrance. Therefore, recognizing the unique challenges faced by students in Guyana and the diaspora, we work tirelessly to connect generous donors and mentors with students in need, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to pursue their educational aspirations.
Our approach is rooted in the belief that education is a potent catalyst for breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering enduring positive transformations within Guyanese families and communities. By providing scholarships, school supplies, and other essential resources, FACE aims to empower students to dream big, achieve their potential, and contribute meaningfully to society.
Join us in our mission to make quality education accessible to all. Your support will significantly impact the lives of less fortunate students in Guyana, opening doors to a brighter and more promising future. Let’s build a world that ensures that each child learns, grows, and succeeds.
Together we can. FACE—Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives.
The Board of Directors
We are a team of nine directors, including— educators, doctors, an accountant, and an attorney— residing in the US, Guyana, and the Caribbean Islands.
For the past two years, we have been meeting virtually for at lease once per month to establish FACE. We believe that no child should be denied an opportunity to pursue their career goals because of financial barriers.
Jassee Nicola Torrington
Founder & Chair and Acting President
Jassee Nicola Torrington, affectionately known as Nikki, is the Founder, Chairperson, and Acting President of Fund A Child’s Education (FACE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping Guyanese youth pursue their academic and career aspirations through scholarships, mentorship, and comprehensive support.
The vision for FACE was conceived in 2012 after years of witnessing talented students unable to pursue their educational goals due to financial barriers and a lack of mentorship. Nikki initially envisioned a model similar to a “big brother, big sister” approach—pairing students with experienced professionals in their desired fields to provide guidance, encouragement, and support.
She first engaged in early discussions with Dr. Dwayne Renville and Dr. Terrence Simon, who contributed to shaping the concept of establishing a nonprofit. As the vision developed, she led the efforts, alongside the support and contributions of the directors and advisors, to establish FACE and create pathways for opportunity and advancement.
Nikki Guided by the belief that no one should be limited by a lack of resources or guidance, she led the efforts—alongside the support and contributions of others—to establish FACE and create pathways for opportunity and advancement.
Nikki is also the Founder of the Torrington Leadership Institute (TTLI), an organization focused on helping individuals discover purpose, develop leadership capacity, and rebuild stability during life and career transitions.
Her professional background spans education, corporate leadership, and public service. She served as a Mathematics teacher in Guyana for over a decade and briefly taught at New Dorp High School in New York. She has also served as an Associate Faculty member in Business at the University of the West Indies and Post University.
In addition, Nikki has held roles at organizations including Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wendy’s, Amazon, and the New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), bringing a diverse and practical leadership perspective to her work.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education (Mathematics) from the University of Guyana, a Trained Teacher Certificate from the Cyril Potter College of Education, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.
Born and raised in Stewartville, West Coast Demerara, Guyana, and now residing in the United States for over 20 years, Nikki remains deeply committed to both countries—expanding access to education and advancing values-based leadership that fosters integrity, accountability, and opportunity for individuals to pursue their dream careers. She believes in Jesus Christ, trusts in God, and is guided by her faith in her service to others. She also values the close relationships she shares with her fiancé, siblings, and her extended family.
Chiveon Bovell-Success
Secretary | Director | Governance
CommitteeChiveon Bovell-Success is an experienced education professional with over 30 years of service in early childhood and primary education. She currently serves as an Education Officer II, with responsibility for monitoring and supervising nursery schools in Region #3, Guyana.
Her career began on October 14, 1994, as an Acting Teacher at Stewartville Nursery School. Driven by a strong commitment to professional growth, she pursued formal training through the Teachers’ Foundation Programme and later attended the Cyril Potter College of Education, where she graduated with honors in 1998 and was awarded Best Graduating Teacher for the Nursery Programme.
She continued her academic advancement at the University of Guyana, earning a Certificate in Education (2001–2003) and a Bachelor of Education (2003–2005). She later completed studies in Education Management and became an Early Childhood Field Officer, further strengthening her expertise in educational leadership and development.
Throughout her career, Chiveon has served in various leadership roles, including Cluster Leader (Uitvlugt Cluster) and Education Officer in Region #9. She also acted in the capacity of Regional Education Officer for Region #1 before her current appointment in Region #3 in August 2023.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, she serves as a part-time lecturer at the Cyril Potter College of Education, Vreed-en-Hoop Branch, contributing to the training and development of future educators.
As the current Secretary of FACE, Chiveon plays a critical role in supporting the organization’s operations and coordination. She has demonstrated a high level of commitment, reliability, and diligence in carrying out her responsibilities, contributing meaningfully to the continued growth and effectiveness of the organization.
Chiveon is deeply passionate about nurturing young minds and supporting teachers to create effective learning environments. Her work reflects a lifelong dedication to education and to the development of children and communities across Guyana.
She is a devoted wife and mother of three and remains committed to making a meaningful impact both within her family and in the wider community.
Ms. Delphine Marcia Bakker
Director | External Affairs Committee
Marcia Bakker is a seasoned post-secondary educator and administrator with a strong passion for children’s holistic development and education. Her career spans many years, marked by a deep commitment to nurturing potential and promoting equal opportunities for all.
With a background in human resource management, Marcia brings a unique combination of organizational expertise and an understanding of human development to her work. She is committed to lifelong learning and has earned numerous certificates from both local and international institutions, reflecting her dedication to continuous growth and professional excellence.
Marcia was among the early individuals who expressed strong support for the vision of FACE and has remained committed to its mission since its formative stages. As a member of the External Affairs Committee, she contributes to strengthening relationships, outreach, and engagement in support of the organization’s goals.
Guided by her personal philosophy—“Aim high; work hard; if you can believe it, you can achieve it”—Marcia approaches both her professional and personal life with determination and purpose.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, she is actively involved in ministry and community-focused initiatives, particularly in supporting youth and advancing women. Her work reflects a strong commitment to service, empowerment, and the development of individuals and communities.
She is a devoted mother of two and remains passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people and the wider community.
Mrs. Olva McKenzie-Agard
Director | Governance Committee
Mrs. Olva McKenzie-Agard is an Attorney-at-Law specializing in law reform, criminal justice reform, and human rights. She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Legislative Studies and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Human Rights, and has also completed specialized training in Restorative Justice at Vermont Law School in the United States.
She currently serves as the Security and Justice Policy Advisor within the Office of the Deputy Governor of the Virgin Islands. Her previous roles include Project Manager for the Inter-American Development Bank-funded Support for the Criminal Justice System Programme in Guyana, and Juvenile Justice Reform Specialist under the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded Community, Family and Youth Resilience Programme. She has also contributed to the work of the Law Reform Commission of the Government of the Virgin Islands.
Olva has been engaged in discussions from the early stages of the initiative that would later become FACE and has remained committed to supporting its mission. As a member of the Governance Committee, she contributes her legal expertise and policy experience to help guide the organization’s structure, accountability, and long-term development.
In addition to her work with FACE, Olva is a devoted wife and mother of two sons. She is actively involved in initiatives focused on justice reform and community development, reflecting her broader commitment to advancing equity and opportunity.
Monty James Jr.
ChFC, CFE, CFCS, CICA, CPFA
Director FACE
Born and raised in Guyana, South America, Monty James Jr. developed an early interest in business and finance. He brings over 22 years of combined experience as an accountant, financial controller, and business executive, having worked with several organizations across Guyana, Barbados, and currently the Cayman Islands. His areas of expertise include business management, finance, and human resources, with a strong focus on improving operational efficiency, executing strategic initiatives, and achieving organizational goals.
Monty holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Financial Management from the University of Sunderland in the United Kingdom. He is also a Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Financial Crime Specialist (CFCS), Certified Internal Control Auditor (CICA), and Certified Public Finance Accountant (CPFA).
Monty’s faith in Christ and his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices guide his decisions and leadership. As a former Youth President of Light of the World Christian Fellowship in the Cayman Islands, he was actively involved in youth empowerment and mentorship, inspiring young men and women to pursue excellence.
His involvement with FACE reflects his belief that education, determination, and proper preparation create meaningful opportunities. He is passionate about the transformative impact FACE can have on young people and remains committed to supporting its mission. Outside of his professional and ministry commitments, Monty enjoys spending quality time with his wife and two daughters.
Mrs. Rovitia Junor-Stewart
Director | External Affairs Committee
Mrs. Rovitia Junor-Stewart serves as a Director of the External Affairs Committee of FACE in Guyana. She is an educator, businesswoman, and dedicated community-oriented leader with a strong commitment to service and youth development.
Born and raised in Stewartville, West Coast Demerara, Rovitia currently serves at Stewartville Secondary School as the Graduate Head of the Department of Computer Science. She is also a part-time lecturer at the Cyril Potter College of Education and a reservist attached to the Guyana National Cadet Corps. In addition, she is currently pursuing a Master’s degree at the University of Guyana, further strengthening her capacity to contribute to education and leadership.
Rovitia was among the earliest individuals engaged in discussions surrounding the vision that would later become FACE, having been part of those conversations from its formative stages before the organization was formally established. She demonstrated a strong willingness to support the initiative from its inception and continues to play a key role in advancing its mission in Guyana.
Known for her compassionate and service-driven nature, Rovitia is deeply committed to supporting others—whether through her professional work or her personal outreach to family and community members. Her dedication reflects the values of care, responsibility, and service that align closely with the mission of FACE.
She is a devoted wife and mother of three and remains passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people and the wider community.
Dr. Shauna Alishea Torrington-Griffith
Director | Governance Committee
Dr. Shauna Alishea Torrington-Griffith is an educator with a strong academic background and a deep passion for teaching and student development. Born in Georgetown, Guyana, she is a trained Secondary School English Teacher and has built her career around fostering learning, growth, and meaningful engagement with students.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of Guyana, as well as two Master of Arts degrees in Latin American Studies and Linguistics from Ohio University. She also earned a Ph.D. in Teacher Education, with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction, from Ohio University.
Dr. Torrington-Griffith is deeply committed to student success and currently works closely with student leaders who support first-year students as they transition from high school to college. She values collaboration and is dedicated to contributing positively to every environment in which she serves.
Dr. Torrington-Griffith was approached during the early development of FACE and expressed her willingness to support the initiative, choosing to formally join after completing her doctoral studies. Since then, she has honored that commitment and continues to make meaningful contributions to the work of the organization. As a member of the Governance Committee, she contributes to strengthening the organization’s structure and strategic direction.
A teacher at heart, she finds her greatest fulfillment in the classroom, engaging with students and supporting their development. She is also a devoted wife and mother of two and remains committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Karyon Jacobs
Director | Internal Affairs Committee
Karyon Jacobs is a veteran educator with over 38 years of experience, dedicated to the academic and social development of young people. Her teaching career began in 1972 at Greenwich Park Primary School and includes service at institutions such as St. Stanislaus College, Old Boys Secondary School in London, England, and various summer programmes at the University of Guyana, as well as contributions to CXC English on Television.
She later served as Head of the Language Department at St. Stanislaus College before continuing her teaching career in both public and private schools in New York. Throughout her career, Karyon has remained committed to fostering growth, discipline, and excellence in her students.
Grounded in her Christian faith and a deep desire to support and uplift young people, she has also pursued studies in Christian Counseling, equipping herself to provide guidance and support beyond the classroom.
Karyon expressed immediate support for the vision of FACE and has remained willing to contribute her time and expertise to the organization. Her longstanding commitment to education and her passion for youth development align strongly with the mission of FACE.
Originally from Stewartville, Guyana, and now residing in the United States, Karyon continues to maintain strong ties to her community. She is the proud mother of one daughter and a loving grandmother, and values the close-knit relationship she shares with her daughter and extended family. She remains dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
FACE Advisors
Dr. Dwayne Renville
Advisor | Founding Secretary
Dr. Dwayne Renville is a passionate advocate for educational equity and inclusive development, with a diverse background in youth leadership, education, and community service. His journey began as a youth leader within the church, where he developed a deep appreciation for the transformative power of education in shaping lives and strengthening communities.
He went on to serve as a secondary school teacher before transitioning into administrative roles, where he worked to create supportive and inclusive learning environments for students from diverse backgrounds.
Dr. Renville is a father of two children. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Mathematics, providing a strong foundation in analytical thinking and problem-solving. He later earned a Ph.D. in Innovation in Global Development, with a focus on inclusive development. His research centers on addressing complex development challenges, with particular emphasis on ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind.
As a founding member of FACE and its first Secretary, Dr. Renville played a key role in the organization’s early development. Now serving as an Advisor, he continues to bring a unique blend of academic expertise, practical experience, and a deep commitment to service.
Dr. Terrence Simon
Advisor | Founding Treasurer
Dr. Terrence Simon is a tenured Associate Professor of Business and Finance at Livingstone College, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Salisbury, North Carolina. He previously served as Department Chair of Business Administration at Post University in Waterbury, Connecticut, and has also held academic roles at Goodwin University and the University of the Southern Caribbean, teaching courses in economics, finance, accounting, and taxation.
In addition to his academic career, Dr. Simon brings over 29 years of industry experience in management and administration. His professional background includes roles as a Management Accountant at Guyana Airways 2000 and CLICO Insurance, Terminal Superintendent at the Guyana Oil Company, District Manager at H&R Block, and Wireless Implementation Manager at Sprint and Voicestream. Since 2006, he has served as a management and tax consultant to small businesses and nonprofit organizations in the United States.
As a founding member of FACE and its first Treasurer, Dr. Simon played a key role in the early development and financial structuring of the organization. Now serving as an Advisor, he continues to contribute his expertise.
Dr. Simon’s combined academic and industry experience enables him to bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping students and organizations with practical, results-driven strategies. He is deeply committed to community service and currently serves on several nonprofit boards.
He is a husband, father, grandfather, the author of several articles and the book A Guide to Ethical Practices in the United States Tax Industry, and co-authored two other books. Dr. Simon holds a Ph.D. in Business Management from Capella University, a Master of Science in Education from Walden University, and a Bachelor of Science in Management from the University of Guyana.
Our approach
Our Mission
The mission of Fund A Child’s Education Inc. is to provide educational support to Guyanese students with potential who face financial challenges by connecting them with mentors, donors, and essential resources.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a globally recognized nonprofit organization, known for excellence in connecting donors, expertise, and resources to expand educational opportunities and improve lives.
Our Partners
