I was an immigrant kid who moved to Brampton, lived in a basement with my family and went to school at ND. As most immigrants, my parents went through many financial hardships struggling to find jobs here and setting their life up. Looking back, going to university was probably the biggest decision I took – and I relied purely on the kindness of strangers through grants and scholarships to fund my university education. I started Degrees for our Youth because I firmly believe that when a child from a low income family gets a chance to pursue higher studies, it’s an opportunity to change their life, their families life and sometimes even their community. So let’s make an impact together and help get degrees for OUR youth.

I’m delighted to support Degrees for our Youth as I see every day in my classes how the combination of education and mentorship gives hope and power to students! Degrees for our Youth opens many doors!

I have worked as a high school educator in Brampton for around 15 years now and have seen students from many situations. There’s two major disadvantages students from low income families face – 1. They do not have mentors to work with them and point them to the right resources required for a university education 2. They are intimidated by university expenses and this prevents them from pursuing quality education post high school. A lot of these students are struggling to meet their families day to day expenses and do not think about university till later. I joined Degrees for our Youth to guide the organization to address the needs of the students who need help the most and make an impact in my community.

As a recent graduate of the University of Toronto, I saw first-hand how amazing a mentor would’ve been in my first year of university. Especially when students are navigating a new education experience, possibly in a new city, and trying to balance a job and studies — having someone that can help guide you can be beyond comforting. I was privileged enough to attend one of my top university choices, and I joined Degrees for our Youth to help and make sure students across Ontario also have this opportunity. 

I joined Degrees for Our Youth because I believe that the opportunity to pursue a university education is an integral inflection point in the transition from youth to adulthood, and that every youth deserves the chance to excel. The Degrees for Our Youth model gives every recipient more than just a financial boost – with access to mentorship and community, our students start their academic journey with the tools to become the example that their friends and family can and will follow.