Beedie Luminaries, the scholarship foundation founded by Ryan Beedie, president of Beedie and philanthropist, is encouraging Grade 12 students in B.C. who are facing financial barriers to apply for one of 105 scholarships available in 2022.
Recipients will each receive up to $40,000 towards their post-secondary studies at any public university, college or trade school in B.C.
“We are excited to begin accepting applications for the fourth year of the Beedie Luminaries scholarship program. Our existing community of 332 students has been so inspiring. We cannot wait to connect with more promising students from all over B.C. and support them as they further their education,” says Beedie. “This year, in light of the labour shortage within the skilled trades sector, we would like to particularly encourage students considering a career in the trades to apply.”
Last year, students from 26 municipalities across the province were awarded a Beedie Luminaries scholarship. Among them were four from Delta: Matthew Chan (Seaquam), Naba Naqvi (Seaquam), Beatrice Sebastian (Burnsview) and Nyah Gentry (South Delta).
In addition to receiving scholarship funds, Beedie Luminaries scholarship recipients are also given access to mentors, Stay on Track student coaches, peer support groups, paid summer internship opportunities and access to the Beedie Luminaries online community.
“For me, the Beedie Luminaries scholarship and mentorship program is a sibling that I never had – a community that understands the ins and outs post-secondary that you can reach out to for help,” said Chan. “Everyone should have a chance at a post-secondary education. Applying for a Beedie Luminaries scholarship can help you secure that future.”
Among the 2021 recipients, over 70 per cent live in rental or social housing, 75 per cent come from single-parent or foster families, and 35 per cent are the first in their family to attend post-secondary.
Beedie Luminaries was launched three years ago with a $50-million donation from Ryan Beedie to coincide with his 50th birthday. It was his experience growing up in Burnaby and seeing friends who did not have the same opportunities to pursue post-secondary education as he did that motivated him to create Beedie Luminaries.
Grade 12 students looking to apply for a Beedie Luminaries scholarship can do so online at BeedieLuminaries.ca. The deadline for applications is January 13, 2022 at 9 am (PST).
Successful applicants will be announced in mid-May 2022. The program is open to students planning to pursue undergraduate degrees or diploma studies at any public university, college or trade school in B.C.
