IGNITE is thrilled to announce our new annual Black Excellence Scholarship to recognize outstanding students and upcoming leaders! Five scholarships of $1,000 will be awarded to students who demonstrate strong involvement in their community and are in need of financial aid, with applications opening in January 2021.

We’re just as excited to announce the first-ever scholarship recipient, Shay Hamilton, who is recognized for her dedication to students through starting the first Black Excellence Conference here at Humber and UofGH.

We spoke with Shay about her award – take a look:

After starting the Black Excellence Conference last year, how does it feel to see new initiatives being put forward in celebration and support of the Black community?

“It’s an amazing feeling. When I took on the role of Vice President of IGNITE, I knew I wanted to make big changes. I didn’t want to just be successful, I wanted to fulfil the highest promise to myself which is service, significance and excellence. To see my hard work move forward makes me feel honoured.”

What was your reaction to being named the first scholarship recipient?

“I was overwhelmed with gratitude which resulted in an ugly cry.”

What kind of impact do you think this scholarship will make within the Humber community?

“It’s sad to say, but when I look at the Black community, I see inequality. I see it in our quality of education, our career opportunities, career progression, and even our safety. We, as the Black community, don’t get a lot of tools, but one of the most powerful tools you can ever give someone is education. So, when you ask me what impact I think this scholarship will make within the Humber & UofGH community…well, you’re telling students that they cannot afford to give up, even in the face of racial disparity, and inequality.”

How have you been continuing your leadership within your community?

“Currently, I am volunteering with TechServeTO, which is an organization that provides digital literacy and technology training to seniors in the GTA for free.”

We are so happy to have been able to present Shay with this award for her hard work, dedication and advocacy efforts during her term as IGNITE’s Vice President. We know she is going to do great things in this world.

Information regarding how to apply and eligibility requirements will be available on the IGNITE website in Winter 2021. For any questions regarding the application process, please email Kristine Galvan at [email protected].

Applications open in January 2021. Stay tuned for more info!

You might just be the next one celebrating!

Help support the Black community and become an ally by educating yourself on anti-Black racism and learning how to address it when it arises in your community.  

Follow IGNITE on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for all things student life.