Zajae Lee is thankful for the support of the 2026 Brown Family Scholarship as she begins her studies at Howard University College of Dentistry.
Years of sacrifice, community service and a strong work ethic have also been key factors in Ms Lee’s story so far.
“My journey to dental school has been defined by grit, perseverance and determination,” said Ms Lee, 25.
She has worked tirelessly to realise her ambition of becoming a dental surgeon, balancing several jobs while navigating the costly process of preparing for dental school.
“I have had to overcome countless obstacles, not only to finance dental school itself, but also the costs associated with getting here, including entrance exams, applications and interviews,” she said. “Throughout that journey, I worked two jobs while remaining committed to my dream.”
Winning the Brown Family Scholarship has made that dream feel even closer.
“It is more than financial support – it is an investment in my future and a reminder that others believe in my potential,” Ms Lee asserted.
“As I work toward becoming the first doctor in my family, I carry with me the hopes and sacrifices of those who came before me, many of whom could only dream of opportunities like this.”
While academic success has brought her to Howard University, Lee believes her commitment to serving others has been just as important.
During her time at Xavier University of Louisiana, she volunteered to provide meals to people experiencing homelessness, mentored incoming students and tutored both children and fellow university students. She also advocated at the Louisiana State Capitol for increased financial assistance programmes to help students facing food insecurity.
“Throughout my time at Xavier University of Louisiana, I made community service a priority,” she said. “I wanted to help ensure college students did not have to choose between pursuing their education and having enough to eat.”
Her passion for service began much earlier, growing up in Bermuda. As youth co-chair for Gina Spence Productions and a participant in the Future Leaders programme, she learned the value of leadership and community engagement.
“These experiences taught me the importance of leadership, giving back and using my voice to create opportunities for others”
Those values continue to shape her vision for the future. In five years, Ms Lee hopes to have graduated from Howard University College of Dentistry and returned home to practise in Bermuda.
“I see myself as a proud graduate of Howard University College of Dentistry, serving the people of Bermuda in one of the island’s dental clinics, while providing compassionate, high-quality oral healthcare,” she said.
She is equally passionate about giving back to the island that has supported her journey.
“My community has invested so much in me through scholarships, mentorship, encouragement and unwavering support,” she said. “I look forward to returning home to serve the people who helped shape me, while promoting oral health, reducing healthcare disparities and inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in healthcare.”
Ms Lee hopes her own story will encourage young Bermudians to dream big, regardless of where they come from.
“Growing up in the North East Hamilton community, there was very little representation of people pursuing careers like mine,” she attests. “I hope my journey serves as proof that where you come from does not define where you can go.”
For students applying for scholarships, her advice is to embrace their own experiences with confidence.
“Believe in your story and have the confidence to share it,” she impresses. “No one can tell your story better than you, and your experiences matter.”
“Beyond academics,” she counsels further, “stay involved in your community, because service speaks volumes about your character.”
Reflecting on her own journey, Ms Lee credits scholarships with opening doors throughout her education, from middle school through undergraduate studies, and now into dental school.
“I would like to sincerely thank the Brown Family Foundation for believing in me and investing in my future,” she said. “I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed to my journey toward becoming Dr Zajae Lee.”
With Howard University now within reach, Lee is determined to honour that investment by returning home to serve Bermuda and, in doing so, inspire others to believe that anything is possible.
