Skip to main content

Except where noted, affiliations are Ontario Tech University. From left: Yasmin Abdulla, Manager, Community and Cultural Relations, Office of Student Life; Dr. Mary Bluechardt, Deputy Provost; Anita Anuyah, Senior Manager, Smart Automation, Scotiabank; Sophia Doulaghsingh, Director, Community Partnerships, Scotiabank; Breanne McAlpin, fourth-year Life Sciences specialization student, Faculty of Science; Tasnim Shariff, Senior Manager, Community Partnerships, Scotiabank; Yvonne Stefanin, Director, Philanthropy. (February 2025)
Except where noted, affiliations are Ontario Tech University. From left: Yasmin Abdulla, Manager, Community and Cultural Relations, Office of Student Life; Dr. Mary Bluechardt, Deputy Provost; Anita Anuyah, Senior Manager, Smart Automation, Scotiabank; Sophia Doulaghsingh, Director, Community Partnerships, Scotiabank; Breanne McAlpin, fourth-year Life Sciences specialization student, Faculty of Science; Tasnim Shariff, Senior Manager, Community Partnerships, Scotiabank; Yvonne Stefanin, Director, Philanthropy. (February 2025)

Ontario Tech University is proud to announce a $500,000 investment from Scotiabank through ScotiaRISE, the Bank’s $500 million commitment and community investment initiative. This contribution supports the university’s Tech with a Conscience fundraising campaign, which emphasizes ethical leadership and the human impact of technological research and innovation. This investment represents a significant step in creating meaningful engagement opportunities for the Black student community at Ontario Tech in Canada, and expanding inclusive leadership opportunities.

The Black Youth Visionary Program, established in Canada through the ScotiaRISE investment, is designed to raise awareness of post-secondary opportunities and provide essential support to help Canadian university students thrive academically, build connections with peers and mentors, and gain the experience needed to secure jobs in their chosen fields. The program will produce successful university graduates who inspire others and ultimately become role models for future generations.

Students enrolled in the Black Youth Visionary program will gain access to:

  • Student awards and financial aid resources.
  • Experiential learning and career development opportunities.
  • Mentorship, networking and leadership experiences.
  • Tailored support in navigating academic and wrap-around services.

Breanne McAlpin, a fourth-year Biological Science, Life Sciences specialization student in Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Science, says initiatives like the Black Youth Visionary Program have meaningful impact.

“This program is a bridge to opportunity and community for Black students. It creates an avenue for mentorship, fostering relationships among peers and alumni who can guide us in excelling academically, professionally and personally,” says McAlpin. “It sends a powerful message to students like me that we belong, we are seen, and we are valued.”

Since the program officially launched in January 2025, its enrolment has steadily increased, demonstrating that the initiative is meeting students’ needs by providing meaningful pathways and resources. It empowers Black youth in Canada in their post-secondary education, career success and personal growth.

“ScotiaRISE recognizes the important role of financial aid, mentorship and career development opportunities in empowering more students to achieve success through post-secondary education and beyond,” says Jason Charlebois, Regional Senior Vice-President, Scotiabank. “Our ScotiaRISE collaboration with Ontario Tech University helps ensure students have access to the opportunities that will help them reach their full potential.”

The partnership underscores Ontario Tech’s commitment to championing diversity and equity in education, and preparing the next generation of leaders to make a positive impact on the world.