A number of students from Surrey and North Delta high schools have been recognized for their academic achievements while facing “life challenges and adversity.” Each has been named a recipient of a scholarship to be applied to their post-secondary education.
The Beedie Luminaries foundation has awarded 21 Grade 12 students in Surrey and North Delta with scholarships of up to $44,000, according to a press release from the organization. The local students were 21 of 116 chosen throughout B.C.
Recipients from the Surrey school district are Hibba Javad from L.A. Matheson; Alicia Wood and Sachneez Jhaj from Queen Elizabeth Secondary; Asma Ghaus from Tamanawis; Thea Cao from Clayton Heights; Yama Mamnoon from Johnston Heights; Najwa El-Hoss, Mohtdah Nouredin and Khang Dang from Kwantlen Park Secondary; Harnoor Garcha, Jiya Binning and Ishita Chowdhury from Panorama Ridge; Basra Maalim, Mohamed Awad, Tamanna Nijjar, Gurleen Thiara, Titi Lado and Maureen Joy Mendania from Princess Margaret.
“Arriving in Canada with nothing, I knew that pursuing my dream career would be hard to reach,” said Thea Cao.
“My teachers, friends and the people from Clayton Heights Art Council really helped me push through obstacles and achieve success.”
Surrey student Elin Estifan was also chosen, from Holy Cross Regional High School.
Delta school district students recognized were Deepika Ramola and Kristian Rod Cabico Jr. from North Delta Secondary; Erin Zheng from Seaquam Secondary and Diane Valencia from Delview Secondary.
“Being a Beedie Luminaries scholarship recipient means that despite my challenging upbringing, I can succeed in life. Other students should consider applying because, for many of us, a barrier risks stopping us from achieving our dreams, but this award can help,” Estifan said.
All students chosen have performed exceptionally well in education, the release adds, but do not have the financial means to afford post-secondary tuition. Along with the money, the students gain access to mentors, student coaches, paid internships and support from the Beedie foundation.
“It has been inspiring to see the success that this talented and determined group of young people has achieved over the past four years. I can’t wait to see what they will accomplish as they move forward to the next chapter of their lives,” said Ryan Beedie, founder of the foundation.
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