In the book of life, the chapter on high school holds a special place for many. Often bookmarked for future reflection, it’s a time that sees a number of milestones from adolescence to young adulthood. Changes and challenges, good or bad, they are all a part of the big story.
During this season of sentimentality, I was lucky enough to meet many bright young minds who were reaching the end of this chapter in their lives. For a moment I was brought out of my jaded self and was excited by seeing such promise and potential. I am thankful to have been a part of the deliberation team for ANAK’s scholarship program this year.
Now in its ninth year since inception, the ANAK Liwayway Scholarship for Leadership Excellence has been awarding high school graduates in our community. A scholarship program created by Filipino-Canadian youth for Filipino-Canadian youth, in an effort to preserve and promote Philippine heritage and support the pursuit of post-secondary studies. As volunteers, we commit to fundraising for these scholarships and each year we make the difficult decision of who to award our limited funds.
This year was no exception and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who applied. We look forward to learning how your futures unfold and hope to stay connected.
In the end, ANAK awarded two scholarship recipients this past June: Michael Guevarra (Maples Collegiate) and Rodell Salonga (St. Paul’s High School). Each received a $500 scholarship, which they will be using towards their post-secondary studies at the University of Manitoba.
Honourable mentions were also awarded to Maria Josellee Dabalos (Fort Richmond Collegiate) and Alroy Nonato (Sisler High School). In addition, ANAK also awarded its annual Citizenship Book Award to Kristine Velasco (Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute) for her active participation and volunteerism during the ANAK Kapatid In-School Mentorship Program.
Congratulations Class of 2015!
Daisydee Bautista is a member of ANAK and Chair of the Education Committee. To learn more about ANAK and how to become a volunteer visit www.anak.ca or e-mail info@anak.ca.