With the 2021 school year underway, Coast Capital is celebrating 44 youth across the province who have been awarded the financial cooperative’s annual Standing Tall Education Awards.
This unique awards program aims to support students across the province in their pursuit of post-secondary education and help ensure these opportunities are more accessible to youth from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and racialized communities. A one-of-a-kind award, it differs from traditional education grants and scholarships by recognizing resilient youth who have risen up against the odds and demonstrated an incredible commitment to continuing their education, instead of solely recognizing academic performance.
Now into its 17th year, the initiative is part of Coast Capital’s wider focus on breaking down barriers, unlocking financial opportunities, and building better futures for young Canadians. Each $3,500 prize fund makes the increasing cost of tuition and living expenses more manageable for young people who may not have access to funding through traditional sources such as parents or loan programs.
Since its establishment in 2004, the program has supported almost 1,000 students to fund their post-secondary studies with an investment of over $2.7 million.
Danielle Dallyn, a Delta resident and recent graduate of North Delta Secondary, is a recipient of Coast Capital's Standing Tall Education Award. Despite the challenges Danielle has faced in her family, as well as her physical and mental health, she has shown incredible strength and commitment to her education.
Currently studying at Vancouver Community College, Danielle plans to transfer to Langara College and become a Registered Dietician in order to help others manage their health and nutrition. "This award has allowed me to continue my post-secondary education by easing the financial stress," says Danielle. "Thanks to Coast Capital, I will be the first-generation girl in my family to receive a university education and am one step closer to achieving my dream."
“Every year, we are inspired by our award winners, each of whom show resilience in the face of significant challenges,” says Maureen Young, Director of Coast Capital’s Social Purpose Office. “We believe that accessing a post-secondary shouldn’t be a dream, but a reality for anyone looking to build a better future for themselves and their communities. The Coast Capital Education Awards program aims to remove one more obstacle on the path to achieving their real goals. Congratulations to all our 2021 Education Award winners, we wish you success, happiness, and a bright future.”
For more information about the Coast Capital Education Award Program, please visit: Coast Capital Youth Education Awards.
