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"Once again we were inspired by the young people who entered. Their essay entries were wide ranging and, in some cases, quite poignant and filled with insight. We hope that our financial assistance will go some way to helping the young persons selected achieve their dreams." — Larry Brown, NUPGE President
Ottawa (27 Sept. 2017) — This year, the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) offered 5 rather than 4 scholarships that reflect its pursuit of equal opportunity for all workers. They are offered to the children and grandchildren and the foster children and foster grandchildren of current or retired NUPGE members who are starting a post-secondary education in a public educational institution. The National Union is pleased to announce the winners of these awards.
Brian Fudge Memorial Scholarship
Arianna Sultani’s parent is Halina Sultani of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE). In the essay entry for our newest scholarship, Arianna outlined the importance of food sciences in the field of public health care and pointed out the positive impact that public services have in protecting and educating the citizens of Canada. The essay observed: “Creating a healthier Canada starts with food, making sure that all Canadians regardless of age or social status have enough healthy food and are educated about what they eat. Citizens have a right to understand what is in their food…and that will lead not only to a healthier Canada, but also a healthier world.”
Scholarship for Indigenous Students
Ian Roberts’ parent is Paula Roberts of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public & Private Employees (NAPE/NUPGE). As an Inuk, Ian, acknowledged Canada’s 150th Anniversary, and urged Canadians and our public servants to address the issues facing our Indigenous populations. Ian wrote in his essay: “It is time for all of Canada and the public service to recognize the importance of enhancing the quality of life of Aboriginal Canadians. Caring federal, provincial and territorial employees can continue to play a role in delivering programs and services…with compassion, respect and understanding…and can make a true difference to the quality of life of Aboriginal Canadians, and thus for all Canadians, everywhere.”
Scholarship for Visible Minority Students
Emily Chow’s parent is Helen Yeung of Health Sciences Association of British Columbia (HSABC/NUPGE). In recognizing that “public services validate the contributions of visible minorities,” Emily’s essay states that “funding and planning public services meaningfully impact the well-being of visible minorities who might otherwise not have the chance of attaining a comfortable standard of living. Public services can aid in overcoming the challenges visible minorities face, putting them on equal ground/platforms for opportunity by establishing a solid infrastructure in education, health care, employment, and other components of public services.”
Terry Fox Memorial Scholarship
Navarra Houldin’s parent is Christine Sturgeon of Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE). Navarra wrote a moving personal essay that observed: “As someone that is still struggling with navigating the world with a disability… I have quickly learned the difference that quality public services make. People in public services are angels to me. They are so willing to recognize potential issues and solve them. It doesn’t take much for consideration to show through, but it shines out of every action of these people. This quality of care has turned my life from a dark struggle to a hopeful and fulfilling existence. I’m glad that I have had the opportunity to access the care of so many great people that have so much determination to improve the lives of everyone that they meet, because I know they do.”
Tommy Douglas Scholarship
Faris Kapra’s parent is Farhana Kanth of the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU/NUPGE). Faris’s views on Tommy Douglas as the Father of Medicare also came out of personal experience — a serious car accident that resulted in hospitalization. Faris wrote in his essay that, “reflecting upon this experience, I realize the importance of the universal health care that we enjoy in Canada, which ensures that all Canadians have the same access to health care based on need and not the ability to pay. Not having to worry about money or payments when you are dealing with an illness or injury is a blessing. But this would not have been possible without the leadership and vision of Tommy Douglas. He was a visionary who created many of the social policies which bring pride to our nation today.”
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