These are the 2025 IGNITE Black Excellence Scholarship recipients

The time has come to announce the recipients of the Black Excellence Scholarship!

Every year, IGNITE’s Black Excellence Scholarship awards exemplary Black-identifying students from Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber who have showcased good academic standing, exceptional leadership and meaningful community involvement.

In partnership with the Humber Black Student Support and Engagement department, this scholarship supports the Black, African and Caribbean communities by providing $1,000 in financial support to each recipient. This year, IGNITE is proud to award 12 students for their outstanding academic commitment.

So, without further ado, these are the winners of the 2025 scholarship:

Almarie Morgan-Gopaulsingh
Cierra Beckford-Lofters
Dara Washington
Davia Knight
Dezerae Francis
Emmanuel Inebode
Idayat Sanni
Ignatius Chika Ijezie
Issac Ofori Atenka
Jamal Ahmed
Jahnyah Learmond
Onome Obada

Almarie Morgan-Gopaulsingh

Inspirational stories like Almarie Morgan-Gopaulsingh represent the greatness within students. As a single parent, she has overcome the difficulties of balancing work, family, studies and financial responsibilities.

Morgan-Gopaulsingh said this scholarship gives her the freedom to focus more on her studies and pursue extracurricular activities that are vital for her personal and professional growth. She added that the scholarship is not only personally rewarding but also a demonstration to her teenagers of the importance of dedication and hard work.

Morgan-Gopaulsingh encourages others to stay committed and contribute to their communities. She said that participating in leadership roles within cultural and academic organizations has strengthened her sense of identity and belonging.

Dara Washington

Picture by IGNITE

“Our success paves the way for future generations.” These are some of the words Dara Washington said when expressing how impactful this scholarship is for her and all the recipients.

Reflecting on the importance of the scholarship, she said that it helps build a future where everyone, regardless of their background, has the chance to thrive.

As a community advocate, Washington motivates others to celebrate their heritage, uplift those around them and continue to break barriers.

Davia Knight

Recipient Davia Knight said that this award is her very first scholarship. She said that it has motivated her to push forward and has allowed her to fully focus on her studies and career by easing some financial stress.

“[Awards like the Black Excellence Scholarship] promote a more inclusive and equitable learning environment where everyone has a chance to succeed,” Knight said.

Her advice for fellow Black students?

“Stay focused on your goals and build a strong network.” She suggests asking for guidance, making use of available resources and remembering that excellence is not only about personal growth but lifting others as you grow.

Dezerae Francis

Dezerae Francis finds the scholarship incredibly encouraging — especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds.

As an international student from Jamaica, she has faced stereotypes and challenges, including finding herself in spaces where she’s one of the few Black students.

She said that this experience has helped her step out of her comfort zone, connect with her roots and adapt to new environments.

“My identity and background are sources of strength,” Francis said.

Emmanuel Inebode

Emmanuel Inebode said this scholarship validates his resilience, purpose and commitment to breaking barriers.

Coming from Nigeria, Inebode said that he has faced racism, financial struggles and pressure to succeed. However, knowing that there are people who see his potential and ability to make a difference empowers him to keep advocating for marginalized communities and create safe spaces where Black students are heard.

“I want to be known for working hard, breaking stereotypes and uplifting others.”
Emmanuel Inebode

Inebode said that scholarships like this “provide more than financial relief — they offer hope, recognition and opportunity.” He sees his triumph as a symbol of staying true to himself, striving for inclusivity and “choosing to rise above.”

Idayat Sanni

Idayat Sanni believes this scholarship matters because it truly makes a difference in someone’s life.

She said that despite the struggles to find her place and overcoming an invisible disability, she has pushed forward and is incredibly proud of what she has accomplished.

When faced with a challenge, Sanni always remembers to believe in herself.

“In times of struggle, doubt or setbacks — whether it’s a low grade, rejection or moments of stress —remember that you believed in yourself,” Sanni said.

Ignatius Chika Ijezie

Receiving the Black Excellence Scholarship has been a pivotal moment for Chika Ijezie. He sees this award as an acknowledgment of his dedication and said he feels deeply humbled and grateful for the recognition.

Ijezie’s goal is to empower Black students’ academic excellence and community involvement. He encourages others to build meaningful relationships with mentors and peers to set themselves up for success.

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” A phrase by Nelson Mandela that he lives by.

Issac Ofori Atenka

Supply chain management student Issac Ofori Atenka inspires others to be determined. Even though he has to balance between three jobs, school and volunteer hours, Atenka said he always remains committed to his goals.

He believes that excelling academically is as important as giving back to the community. Atenka said that after his mother passed away, he found ways to turn his grief into something positive through volunteering, mentoring and promoting kindness.

“This scholarship makes me think of my late mother, who always encouraged me to strive for excellence. Her strength continues to inspire me, and I hope to make her proud.”
Issac Ofori Atenka

Jamal Ahmed

Picture provided by Jamal Ahmed.

Jamal Ahmed, a Black student from an Eritrean Background and a refugee in Canada, said being recognized “means a lot.” He finds this scholarship a representation of validation, hope and a chance to “dream bigger without being held back by financial constraints.”

“To be selected among so many inspiring individuals is a great achievement that I don’t take lightly.”
Jamal Ahmed

Ahmed said the scholarship will allow him to focus on his studies and his placement at the FCJ Refugee Centre. He also said it enables him to continue learning and being a voice for equity. His goal is to contribute to the community through meaningful change, justice and education.

Onome Obada

When asked how this scholarship will impact her career aspirations, Onome Obada said it is an investment in her future. She said it allows her to focus on her studies and businesses without worrying about financial constraints.

As an entrepreneur, she runs Kids Dream Haven Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports children’s education and welfare, as well as Naija.in.the.6ix, an authentic Nigerian food company.

Thanks to the Black Excellence Scholarship, Obada said she will be able to continue contributing to the community by “making a tangible impact.”

“For many, including myself, scholarships serve as a stepping stone toward achieving long-term success.”
Onome Obada

Excited Cheering GIF by Aminé — *Via GIPHY*

These are some of the words of our recipients!

Once again, congratulations to these 12 inspirational students on receiving the Black Excellence Scholarship!

Additional opportunities like the IGNITE Pride Scholarship support students from marginalized communities through financial assistance and community involvement.

At IGNITE, we’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. We advocate for all — no matter their background!

Feature image courtesy of IGNITE.

Curious about the previous winners? Take a look at the 2024 Black Excellence Scholarship recipients!