Created in memory of a former ProZ.com staff member, the Fund exists to support a program that identifies and support exceptional young people in pursuing arts or sciences in which they are particularly talented, in countries other than their own. Award recipients receive grants of up to €10,000 (~$13,500) to be applied toward studying abroad for periods of six months to a year.

The goal is that while advancing in areas in which they already excel -- with the added stimulation of a foreign environment -- sponsored young people will also learn a new language, thereby enhancing their ability to contribute to the world over the course of their lifetimes.

Initially, there are two possibilities for the region of study: the United States and Argentina.

Applications are invited from men and women between the ages of 18 and 26 who:

(1) have special skills in the arts (music, dance, literature, etc.), sciences or other field

(2) are passionate about learning a new language

Although applications are encouraged from children of ProZ.com members (and members who meet the criteria), there is no requirement that applicants be affiliated with ProZ.com. Interest or experience in translation is not required, so if you know an extraordinary person who meets the above criteria, please let them know about this scholarship opportunity!

In the application, interested parties are asked to discuss (and if applicable, demonstrate -- for example in video form) their unique art or skill and also explain, in essay format, what they hope to bring to the world during their lifetimes by way of their chosen art or skill.

In the first round of screening, a committee consisting of ProZ.com members, site staff members and representatives from Justin's family will select finalists. The winner will be selected from among the finalists by a general vote among ProZ.com members.

The scholarship recipient will be required to report back to the community on his or her progress and experiences (linguistic, cultural and artistic).

Applications for the first year of the scholarship must be submitted by November 15, 2010. The period of travel/study will begin in 2011.

http://www.proz.com/application/justin_grant

Justin Chlebus began working at ProZ.com in March of 2005 and served as a developer and systems administrator for two and a half years. Dedicating himself to the service of the ProZ.com community, he made monumental contributions to the site and company, and also helped thousands of people around the world to get the most from it. He died on September 2, 2007, having just celebrated his 22nd birthday.

Justin's extraordinary warmth and enthusiasm could be felt by anyone who came into contact with him. He was brilliant, and was always ready to drop everything to help someone out. Those of us who worked with him every day are blessed to have known such a bright and good spirit.

View Justin's forum thread on ProZ.com

Please submit a support request