Announcing the Recipients for the inaugural I.D.E.A.L Scholarship™
BioTalent Canada is proud to announce Obiajulu Udemgba and Carter Yott as the recipients of the inaugural I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™.
Carter Yott and Obiajulu Udemgba were selected for their impressive determination, ambition, and unwavering commitment to the IDEAL principles and their personal academic and professional goals. Both individuals have overcome significant challenges and demonstrated a strong dedication to promoting these values in their future academic and professional endeavours.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship. This support not only helps me pursue my passion for engineering but also strengthens my resolve to advocate for inclusion and equity in my field,” says Carter Yott.
“Receiving this scholarship is a testament to the hard work and perseverance I’ve put into my studies and community involvement. I look forward to contributing to the field of architecture with a focus on accessibility and diverse perspectives,” says Obiajulu Udemgba.
The I.D.E.A.L ScholarshipTM is designed to propel individuals from equity-deserving groups and foster diversity within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. With a clear focus on promoting inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility, the I.D.E.A.L Scholarship aims to drive enrollment in STEM programs across Canada while cultivating a vibrant and innovative bio-economy.
In its inaugural year, special consideration was given to Indigenous applicants and those with disabilities, aligning with BioTalent Canada’s commitment to addressing industry disparities and providing opportunities to those historically underrepresented in STEM fields.
Criteria and Eligibility
To qualify for the I.D.E.A.L Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident of Canada
- Provide documentation confirming they will be entering their first year of study in a STEM related program in an accredited college, university or CEGEP in Canada.
- Express financial need
- Proof of academic achievement (e.g. latest academic transcript)
- For 2024-2025, applicants must identify as a member of one of the following equity-deserving groups:
- Indigenous Peoples (An Indigenous person is a North American Indian or a member of a First Nation, Métis or Inuit. North American Indians or members of a First Nation include treaty, status or registered Indians, as well as non-status and non-registered Indians)
- Persons with a Disability (Defined by: Qualifying for the Canadian Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Students can not be directly related to BioTalent Canada team members or board members.
How much will I receive?
This year, BioTalent Canada awarded two $10,000 scholarships to students entering their first year of study in a STEM-related accredited program. One went to a student who identifies as Indigenous, and one to a student who identifies as a person with a disability.
Please note, the scholarship amount for CEGEP programs (Collège d’enseignement général et professionnel), will be $5,000.
Why Apply?
The I.D.E.A.L Scholarship offers more than just financial support. By applying, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Shape the future: Contribute to a more inclusive and diverse bio-economy by pursuing STEM education and breaking down barriers for underrepresented groups.
- Empowerment: By being part of the I.D.E.A.L Scholarship program, you’re not only investing in your education but also in the future of the bio-economy, where diverse perspectives drive innovation and progress.
How to Apply
Please note that BioTalent Canada has now completed accepting applications for the inaugural I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™. Stay tuned for more information on how to apply for next year!
If you have any questions, please contact Soufiane at [email protected].
