SCHOLARSHIPS

LANA K. - Wester Technical-Commercial School

We are honoured to recognize Lana K. as the recipient of one of our Mary Aziz Scholarship.

The scholarship is named for an extraordinary woman whose service and generosity continues to inspire us all. A cherished member of the University Women’s Club, Mary—now in her nineties—still occasionally brings her warmth and joyful spirit to our gatherings.

As a nurse, Mary dedicated herself to the care of others. Together with fellow nurse Barbara Goldring, who was also a beloved member of our Club and a steadfast champion of our scholarship program, she helped build the community and values we inherit today. Their leadership and commitment opened doors for generations of women. We stand not only on their shoulders, but in the light of their example.

Lana is a graduating student from Western Technical-Commercial School where she has earned a reputation for turning compassion into action.

Lana’s achievements extend well beyond the classroom, but her academic accomplishments are noteworthy. A dedicated and highly successful student, she has consistently combined intellectual curiosity with a deep commitment to serving others—demonstrating that excellence is measured not only by grades, but by character.

For more than two years, Lana has been an active leader with the Community Aid Initiative, helping organize more than twenty donation drives for families in need. Through this work, she has helped distribute thousands of dollars’ worth of food, clothing, school supplies, and essential items to communities across the Greater Toronto Area.

Lana’s commitment to service is deeply personal. Whether coordinating volunteers, sorting donations, or delivering support directly to families, she approaches every task with kindness and care. When a local family was facing a parent’s cancer diagnosis, Lana helped organize grocery deliveries and support during an especially difficult time. Teachers who know her would say that this is simply who she is.

At school, Lana has contributed to initiatives such as the Terry Fox campaign, Open House events, and Grade 8 transition activities. Teachers and counsellors describe her as thoughtful, resilient, and someone who leads quietly by example.

This fall, Lana plans to study Early Childhood Education. It is easy to imagine the profound impact she will have in that field. The same compassion, patience, and generosity she demonstrates today will one day enrich the lives of countless children and families.

Lana, your kindness, perseverance, and commitment to others remind us that leadership is measured not only by accomplishments, but by the difference we make in the lives of those around us. We are honoured to celebrate your achievements and excited to see all that lies ahead.

MOZHDEH A. - Danforth CI

Mozhdeh A. is an exceptional Grade 12 student at Danforth Collegiate and Technical Institute whose academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to community service have made a lasting impact both within her school and across her community. Accepted into the specialized Math and Science Technology (MaST) program, Mozhdeh has consistently maintained an outstanding academic average of 95% throughout high school while balancing extensive extracurricular and volunteer commitments. 

Mozhdeh has transformed personal challenges into motivation to support others. Since 2023, she has volunteered extensively at a local food bank, helping distribute hundreds of food hampers weekly to families in need. Recognizing gaps in community support, she also initiated outreach efforts to local grocery stores and businesses to secure donations of surplus food and hygiene products. In addition, she contributed to projects such as the Kids’ Clothing Swap and Healthy Food Drive, positively impacting countless individuals and families. In 2025 Mozhdeh assumed the role of Outreach Coordinator at Street Haven and organized the 2025 Walk-a-Thon to advocate for affordable, accessible housing in Toronto. 

Mozhdeh’s leadership extends beyond community service into her school environment. As Club Coordinator on Student Council, she revitalized student engagement by organizing and supporting more than 50 active clubs, helping students build friendships, discover interests, and foster a stronger sense of belonging at school. She has also dedicated over 300 volunteer hours to healthcare organizations, including Providence Healthcare and Scarborough Health Network. Through every aspect of her work, Mozhdeh demonstrates initiative, empathy, and a deep commitment to creating positive change for those around her.

Mozhdeh intends to study Biomedical Sciences at Toronto Metropolitan University with the plan of then attending University of Toronto’s Dental Surgery (DDS) program to achieve her goal of becoming a dentist. Her dedication, resilience, and compassion exemplify the values of the University Women’s Club Foundation Scholarship.

The University Women’s Club of Toronto is delighted to present Mozhdeh with the 2026 D. Barbara Goldring Award.  

MIA T. - York Memorial CI

We are delighted to recognize Mia T. as the other recipient of the University Women’s Club of Toronto’s Mary Aziz Scholarship.

Mia is graduating from York Memorial Collegiate Institute, where she stands out for her academic achievement, leadership, and service to her community. Her teachers describe her as thoughtful, hardworking, and quietly determined.

As one teacher wrote: “She has never allowed hardship to define or limit her ambitions. Instead, she has used these experiences as motivation to work harder and stay focused on her goals.” 

Mia is especially passionate about creating opportunities for young people in STEM. Through a research initiative funded by Ontario Tech University, she helped explore barriers facing Black students in science and health-related fields, leading to a mentorship initiative connecting Black high school students with university students and professionals. 

She has contributed to Black History Month events, the Black Brilliance Conference, dance programs, and many other activities that foster inclusion and community—all while balancing academics, two jobs, and significant personal responsibilities.

This fall, Mia will begin studies in Health Sciences, with the goal of creating more inclusive spaces in healthcare while continuing to mentor young people and expand opportunities for others.

Mia, your resilience, leadership, and commitment to equity are the values this scholarship was created to support. We are proud to support you as you begin this next chapter and look forward to the impact you will make in the years ahead.

SAIMA H. - Jarvis CI

Saima is an exceptional student graduating from Jarvis CI, whose academic excellence, resilience, and commitment to service distinguish her as a leader both within and beyond her school community. As a Deaf and Hard of Hearing student, Saima has navigated educational and social barriers with remarkable determination, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, advocacy, and achievement.

Throughout high school, Saima has consistently demonstrated outstanding academic ability. Her transcript reflects an exceptional record, including a final grade of 100% in Macroeconomics, 99% in Social Justice and 97% in Advance Functions. Saima maintained an overall average of approximately 96% across grades 10 and 11.  

Whether studying advanced mathematics, science, technology, or the humanities, she approaches learning with intellectual curiosity, discipline, and a genuine desire to understand the world around her. Her academic accomplishments reflect both natural ability and an unwavering work ethic.

Beyond academics, Saima is deeply committed to creating opportunities for others. As Student CEO of Rock the Street, Wall Street, she helped promote financial literacy and empowerment for young women and non-binary students, connecting participants with mentors and pathways to future success. She also founded and led her school’s Craft N’ Chill Club, fostering an inclusive environment where students could build confidence, creativity, and meaningful connections.

Saima models empathy, perseverance, and commitment to equity. Her experiences have inspired her to pursue engineering while remaining dedicated to improving accessibility and representation for others facing barriers. Supported by strong character, exceptional academic achievement, and a proven record of leadership and service, Saima is a young person of extraordinary promise whose impact is already being felt throughout her community.

The University Women’s Club of Toronto is proud to present Saima with the 2026 Margaret McGiverin Award.  

SHIVANI S. - Humberside CI

It is a pleasure to introduce and honour Shivani S. as the recipient of the University Women’s Club of Toronto’s scholarship. Her participation in school programs beyond the classroom as well as her exceptional academic achievement is exemplary.

Shivani will be graduating from Humberside Collegiate Institute this year. Her initiatives within her school have been extraordinary. She founded and led a STEM Outreach Program initiative in her school. She trained and mentored her school group so that they could train three other high school groups to design and then deliver their own one hour workshops to Grade 6 elementary school students. Humberside now has four active STEM Outreach groups.

As a dedicated student, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership abilities. She has balanced outstanding academic achievement with extensive extracurricular leadership and volunteer commitments. Shivani has involved herself not only in the STEM Outreach Program but the DECA team, the Robotics Team executive, and the Junior Achievement Student Company Program.

This Fall, Shivani will be studying Mathematics at the University of Waterloo where she hopes to continue creating meaningful learning experiences within her new community. 

The University Women’s Club is proud to recognise Shivani and wish her every success.  Her generosity of spirit and dedication to her initiatives will enable her to share her enthusiasm with others in the future.

FATIMA A. - Riverdale CI

It is an honour to introduce and celebrate Fatima A. as the recipient of the University Women’s Club of Toronto Scholarship. Fatima has achieved exceptional academic performance, demonstrated compassionate volunteerism and strong leadership skills throughout her secondary school career.

As Fatima graduates from Riverdale Collegiate Institute, she is recognised as a thoughtful and caring student who willingly shared her knowledge with other students.  She regularly tutored younger students in Mathematics, Sciences, and French. 

As a student with strong academic standing, she is also an accomplished violinist who mentors students in the Repertoire course. She founded the Amine Club to provide an environment for students to express their creativity.   

Her volunteerism encompasses many areas. Fatima has volunteered in the school library since Grade 9. This year she co-created a Library Council which initiated Low-Sensory Wednesdays.  Apart from her tutoring and mentorship in school, she volunteers at her local food bank. She is also a volunteer at Toronto General Hospital. 

It was at her local food bank during an interaction with an elderly woman, that Fatima realized the importance of empathy, connection, and concern for others in all aspects of life. This reinforced her wish to choose Nursing as a career.

The University Women’s Club of Toronto is proud to support Fatima as she continues to attain her goal of building a safe and respected community for all people.

DELARAM D. - Central Toronto Academy

It is my pleasure to recognize Delaram D., a graduate of Central Toronto Academy. Delaram has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship from the University Women’s Club of Toronto. 

Delaram made Canada her new home after her family decided to leave war torn Iran. Despite ongoing difficulties, Delaram embraced her situation, and in her words “it has become a part of who I am to  give back to the country that welcomed my family and gave us solace.”

Delaram is an impressive scholar. In Grade 12, she decided, with her school’s support, to enroll in a course at the University of Toronto. She worked in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences as a co-op student, creating programs to integrate students into university life. Despite her heavy workload, Delaram maintained stellar marks, and received a Final A grade in her U of T course. 

Delaram has immersed herself in school life. She volunteered at school events, helped design the Yearbook, and as part of the Multicultural Club, she promoted inclusion among her peers. She overcame her initial fears about speaking English, took on increasing responsibilities as a leader, and quickly grew in confidence. This young woman is also deeply creative, and her designs promoting female empowerment were spotlighted in her school’s fashion show. How does she do it? 

Delaram also made the time to volunteer outside of school. She is a dedicated volunteer with a Pediatric Occupational Therapy Clinic that provides programming for children who are on the spectrum. She immersed her kids in a world of  music, art, and games. And after more than a thousand community service hours, Delaram was offered a part time job  which has allowed her to contribute financially to her family.

It is obvious to all those who know Delaram that she is not only brilliant, but patient and kind. We agree with her teacher that this young woman will one day, be a phenomenal caregiver and medical practitioner.

This fall, Delaram will start her studies in Kinesiology with the support of the University Women’s Club. Please help us congratulate Delaram Dehnavi.

FATIMA O. - Parkdale CI

It is our pleasure to recognize Fatima O., a graduate of Parkdale Collegiate Institute. Fatima has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship from the  University Women’s Club of Toronto. 

Fatima’s reference described her as “one of the loveliest, most caring, diligent, and inspirational young women “ that she had the privilege of working with.

Our Scholarship committee agrees.

Fatima exceeded the goals of her intense International Baccalaureate program with marks in the high 90s. But of course she isn’t just academically gifted.

Despite her youth, and perhaps because of her own personal struggles along the way, Fatima has developed a passion for good mental health. At Parkdale, she knew that other students were often facing personal struggles. So Fatima decided to help de-stigmatize mental health by co- founding a Wellness fair, personally reaching out and connecting her high school peers to 14 local mental health and community organizations. 

In addition to her mental health advocacy, Fatima personally mentored Grade 9 students. She advocated for restorative justice and fairness among students. And it was her courage and commitment to her school that ensured her selection two years in a row to attend a leadership camp in Muskoka

Fatima has left quite a  legacy with Parkdale Collegiate - She has earned the respect of her teachers. She has also showed others how to advocate for a space free of racism, how to mentor black youth, and how to ask for help when you are feeling overwhelmed. She is more than a scholar, to us she is a leader for tomorrow. 

This fall, Fatima will start her studies in health sciences with the support of the University Women’s Club. Please help us congratulate  Fatima Omar.

CINDY H. - Central Toronto Academy

We are delighted to announce Cindy H. as the recipient of the D. Barbara Goldring Scholarship. Cindy was the unanimous choice of our committee, as she truly embodies the values that Barbara held dear — a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, a deep commitment to community service driven by passion rather than obligation, and a genuine desire to create inclusive and supportive communities.

As the daughter of immigrant parents, Cindy has a keen understanding of the challenges many new Canadians face, and she has quietly, yet resolutely, overcome any obstacles in her path.

She has contributed over 300 hours to school and community service and is deeply involved in every aspect of school life.Outside the classroom, Cindy serves on Student Council, leads the student newspaper she founded, presents at Model UN conferences, and plays a foundational role in the Women in STEM Club and the Asian Students Association — both of which she also founded. Her volunteer efforts extend into the broader community, from supporting events at the Toronto History and Railroad Museums to coaching tennis for children and leading her school’s badminton and Ultimate Frisbee teams to success.Academically, Cindy excels in all subjects. Whether in the sciences or the arts within the demanding AP program, her marks consistently remain in the high 90s.

In the spirit of Barbara, who studied nursing alongside our own Mary Aziz, Cindy plans to enter the field of medicine with a focus on pharmacology and cancer research. She has accepted an offer from McGill University — the very city where Barbara once studied.

In the words of one of her referees: “Cindy is humble, talented, generous, and driven to lift others up while pushing herself to excel. Her humility conceals someone truly extraordinary who delivers with consistency and grace.”

We believe Barbara would have cherished the opportunity to meet Cindy. We are honoured to support such a remarkable young woman as she begins the next chapter of her journey.

SARAH J. - Bloor Collegiate Institute

We are delighted to announce Sarah J. as the recipient of the Mary Aziz Scholarship. Sarah is a first generation Canadian growing up in a neighbourhood of immigrants and refugees. She saw firsthand the barriers that limited opportunities for these families. These experiences have inspired her to commit to two causes- fighting poverty and addressing health care inequity.

Academically Sarah shines. She operates at a rigorous pace in the AP TOPs program which requires industriousness and higher order thinking to be successful. She stands out as she not only excels in the math and science courses but also in business, French, music and English classes.

Her high school transcript shows no mark below 94% and 18 courses with a mark of 100%. Last semester Sarah achieved 100% as the final grade in all her courses.

Sarah’s over 1000 volunteer hours in the community and at school are incontestable. They include tutoring young children, volunteerism at Michael Garron Hospital, youth leader for the Crescent Town Tenants Union, leading food drives that provide food for over 1000 members of the community yearly, at the Ontario Science Center as a science camp leader, involved in the U of Ts Hackathon and their Adventure in Science program.

But the activity, that as one teacher puts it, lights up her face is her time volunteering at Michael Garron Hospital in the emergency, MRI and pediatrics departments. Her favourite is the information desk where she speaks Urdu to families without English, addressing their health concerns and their fears.

At school Sarah mentors grade nine students through the Bloor Leadership Team and has helped organize the lunchtime nutrition program. Sarah often dedicates her lunchtimes to helping junior students with math and science.

Sarah will attend U of T in their Life Sciences Program to reach her goal of becoming a polylingual physician/ scientist. She will be someone who bridges language gaps in healthcare, creates new therapies and advocates for a Toronto free from poverty. As she says- if my parents can build a new life from one suitcase- I will keep going until I wake up to a more equitable Toronto.

MARIISHA D. - York Memorial CI

Mariisha is a first-generation Canadian who has faced and overcome numerous challenges in pursuit of her lifelong goal of becoming a pediatric nurse. These experiences have inspired her to excel academically and to dedicate herself to meaningful volunteer work in her community, as well as to leadership and advocacy within her school.

Her passion for healthcare is evident through her involvement in the school’s Health and Wellness Specialist Program and her participation in the University of Toronto’s summer mentoring program, where she explored various healthcare fields and conducted research on opioids and the social determinants of health. She also gained valuable clinical exposure by shadowing nurses in the NICU and ICU at St. Michael’s Hospital.

Mariisha is actively engaged in MemoWeConnect, an initiative focused on raising awareness about mental health issues. As a committed member of the Key Club, she helped organize a food pantry that supports 20 families per month, distributing over $50,000 worth of nonperishable food over two years. Additionally, she led a five-week program for youth at the Keele Community Hub, focusing on healthy coping strategies, emotional development, and self-esteem.

Her school advisor describes Mariisha as someone who truly embodies the spirit of the UWC award—resilient, service-minded, and determined to overcome adversity in the pursuit of a better future.

RAAFAH F. - Riverdale Collegiate Institute

To say that Raafah excels academically would be an understatement. In addition to consistently achieving outstanding results in science and mathematics, she successfully completed all the extended French courses offered throughout high school. Raafah will also be the first woman in her family to attend university—a milestone she embraces with a deep sense of responsibility and pride.

In support of her academic and career aspirations, Raafah has worked as a pharmacy assistant since the age of 15. Her dedication and competence have not gone unnoticed; she is regularly entrusted with the training of co-op and university students.

Equally committed to giving back to her community, Raafah volunteers her time in numerous meaningful ways. She tutors students through the Academic Pathway Tutor Program and is a passionate advocate through her involvement in the Black Student Alliance and the Muslim Student Association. She is also an active member of the Swim Club, Math Club, Health Research Club, and the Digital Audio Association.

Beyond school, Raafah contributes to literacy initiatives with the Leacock Foundation and plays a vital role at the Harari Heritage Centre, where she supports cultural preservation and community engagement.

As Raafah herself has said, these are not just extracurricular activities—they reflect her deep and genuine commitment to equity.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes as she pursues studies in life sciences, with the goal of earning a medical degree.

Raafah’s future is undoubtedly bright.

SOPHIA K. - Central Technical School

We are proud to celebrate Sophia’s graduation from the LAWS (Law in Action Within Schools) Program, a prestigious initiative in partnership with the University of Toronto Faculty of Law and Osgoode Hall Law School. During her time in the program, Sophia has distinguished herself by earning two academic excellence awards.

In addition to her outstanding academic achievement—maintaining a 95% average—Sophia has been an active and valued member of the Specific Arts Program. Her dedication extends beyond academics: she is passionately engaged in issues of race, gender, and class, and she approaches all her work with a strong sense of purpose and integrity.

As a proud Muslim woman, Sophia identified the need for greater community support and took the initiative to co-found the Girls Muslim Association.

Through this group, she enhanced the school’s prayer space and fostered an environment of cultural awareness and inclusiveness.

Sophia is also a committed leader, serving as the head of the School Arts Council, where she supports both students and local artists, and as the co-founder and president of the Graduation Committee.

MONAÉ M. - Danforth Technical and Collegiate Institute

Monaé is a recent Canadian, having arrived from Jamaica with her mother and siblings just three years ago. Her scholarship application stood out clearly for its deep commitment to social justice, aligning powerfully with the values we uphold.

In her own words, Monaé shares that it is here in Canada where she has found both safety and a renewed determination to advocate for justice—justice that is inclusive and protective of all, regardless of status or circumstance.

Currently serving as Vice President of External Affairs on the student council, Monaé is a passionate advocate for student voice, particularly through her involvement with Voices in Black Excellence. She also founded the Intersectional Feminist Group, where she champions women's voices and prepares young women to step into leadership roles. Her leadership extends beyond advocacy; she played a key role in organizing school-wide fundraisers, directing all proceeds to support women’s shelters.

In addition, Monaé represents the student body on the Parent Council and contributes meaningfully to the Caring and Safe Schools Program. Her dedication to community is matched by her excellence on the rugby field—her personal arena for growth—where she leads with both grit and discipline.

As one of her teachers expressed, “What truly sets Monaé apart is her ability to lead with compassion, turning ideas into action while uplifting those around her. She is a testament to the power of determined, socially conscious leadership.”

It is no surprise that Monaé aspires to pursue a law degree after completing her undergraduate studies. We are confident that she will continue to be a powerful force for equity and justice in all that she does.

SAHRISH P. - Monarch Park Collegiate Institute

Sahrish is the first member of her family to be born and educated in Canada, a role she embraces with great pride and responsibility. She serves as an inspiring role model for female Muslim students in both her school and wider community. Her dedication to advocating for underrepresented voices is demonstrated through her leadership roles as an executive member of the student council, school ambassador, and president of the Muslim Student Association.

In pursuit of her aspiration to become a pediatric oncologist, Sahrish has contributed numerous volunteer hours at both Michael Garron Hospital and SickKids. She believes in a holistic approach to healing—complementing scientific knowledge with empathy, cultural awareness, and emotional support to address all dimensions of a patient’s well-being.

Sahrish also volunteers at Kumon, where she supports young children in developing their reading and math skills. In addition, she contributes to S4W, where she has created mental health awareness initiatives for students across the Toronto District School Board.

Academically, Sahrish is an exceptional student in the International Baccalaureate program at Monarch Park. Through her studies in biology, chemistry, and psychology, she has developed advanced skills in independent learning, research, and inquiry. Her IB counsellor has remarked that her graduation will leave a significant void in the school community—a testament to the lasting impact she has made.

KWABEA A. W. - Jarvis Collegiate Institute

Four and a half years ago, a very young girl and her two brothers left Ghana and immigrated to Canada. Since then, Kwabea has navigated her teenage years and the challenges of adapting to a new country and school system with remarkable independence and resilience. Motivated by a strong desire to give back to her community, Kwabea has become an inspiring leader.

She currently serves as the President of the Black Students’ Association, tutors students in grades one through six, and holds an ESL tutor certificate. She is actively involved in church activities, plays on Jarvis’s rugby team, and also teaches rugby to youth during the summer.

Her commitment to service extends further through her involvement in clothing drives for shelters, community clean-ups, and leadership in Project Canoe — an initiative that supports children from low-income families by helping them develop leadership, resilience, and teamwork skills through outdoor education. This mission strongly aligns with her deep passion for biology and the natural world.

Kwabea firmly believes in the transformative power of education and strives to become the role model she once needed — a young woman of faith, purpose, and determination, committed to uplifting others.

She will be pursuing studies in the Biomedical Sciences Program, where we are confident she will continue to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

AAMENA Y. - Rosedale Heights School of the Arts

It is a rare and remarkable occurrence to receive an application from a student who demonstrates such exceptional talent in both the arts and sciences. Aamena is one of those extraordinary individuals whose academic excellence knows no bounds.

As the child of first-generation immigrants, Aamena has been deeply shaped by her family’s journey and cultural heritage—elements that inform both her artistic expression and her life goals. As she eloquently writes, these experiences have taught her to lead with empathy, act with intention, and serve with heart.

Aamena has been twice elected President of the Student Council at Rosedale and has been chosen by her peers to serve as this year’s valedictorian. She is a student who not only recognizes needs in her community but works tirelessly to address them. In response to global events, she co-founded the Muslim Jewish Student Alliance, creating a safe and joyful space for interfaith dialogue and connection.

Beyond her leadership roles, Aamena is a Raven Buddies mentor, a student ambassador, a fashion show designer, and President of the Ceramics Club. She also dedicates her time as a volunteer at the ROM summer camps.

This fall, Aamena will begin an architecture studies program, drawn to the powerful role that built environments play in shaping a sense of belonging and in fostering community, reflection, and healing.

As her student advisor put it, “In my 15 years as an educator and counsellor, I can confidently say she is the most exceptional student I’ve ever worked with.”