Michelle Lindemann is passionate about women in engineering. As a Métis woman studying Civil Engineering Technology at the College of New Caledonia, she sees firsthand how underrepresented women, especially Indigenous women, are in the field.
For Michelle, receiving an Indigenous Women in Technology Scholarship from the BC Scholarship Society (BCSS) not only means financial support but the opportunity to “contribute, inspire, and ignite change.”
Women are vastly underrepresented in engineering, with as little as 14% of practicing engineers identifying as women. The disparity is even greater for Indigenous women. “The more women who join, the more others will have women to look up to,” said Michelle.
It’s this spirit of hope and determination that is helping young people in our province prepare for the tough road ahead, one filled with challenges such as affording a home, accessing healthcare, responding to climate change, and navigating economic instability.
Finding a way forward through uncertain times
Respondents to Victoria’s 2024 Vital Signs survey gave Greater Victoria a C grade for the Getting Started issue area, which refers to the ability to get a good start in life, work, and adulthood in the community.
While 62% agreed the region will remain a desirable place to live for future generations, only 13% agreed it will remain affordable.
One of the brightest spots in the report is the Learning issue area, which received a B grade from respondents. This is promising, as access to education and support for students is an invaluable way to help future generations thrive in our community.
One of the ways the Victoria Foundation helps support future generations is through its partnership with the BC Scholarship Society, which delivers millions of dollars annually in scholarships and awards to help young people in our province access the education they need to succeed.
Through BCSS, specific scholarships are available for Indigenous students, students who wish to study internationally, and women pursuing degrees in science and technology. Awards are also available for students transitioning out of Adult Basic Education programs into full-time post-secondary studies and for undergraduate students transferring between two public post-secondary institutions.
“Scholarships encourage, support, and reward determined young people and, ultimately, contribute to the future of our communities and our province,” said Rory Grewar, Senior Director, Special Funds at the Victoria Foundation.
“It’s very gratifying to help these students to pursue their dreams.”
Scholarships help students pursue dreams and inspire change
Scholarships from BCSS help students such as Rachel Beach, whose dream was to study in Canada and internationally to expand her mind and gain experience. While studying Sociology in her third year at the University of British Columbia, a Premier’s International Scholarship gave her the opportunity to embark on a five-month study abroad program in Australia.
“Studying abroad really opened me up to new ways of learning and thinking,” said Rachel. “The scholarship gave me the opportunity to lean all the way into the experience. It was incredible.”
Connor Lewis, from Prince George, is a three-time recipient of an Indigenous Student Award. Both a star student and athlete, Connor is thriving at the University of Victoria, as he prepares for his dream career in environmental law. “Any student would tell you help like that makes a world of difference,” said Connor. “To have that financial support allows me to maintain focus on my studies, sports, and community.”
A wide variety of funding available
The Foundation also partners with the Province of BC to support young people with experience living in care who are seeking higher education, by way of funding streams such as the Learning Fund for Young Adults and the Youth Education Assistance Fund.
There are nearly 100 additional bursaries and scholarships available through grants from the Victoria Foundation in collaboration with educational institutions, thanks to generous donors who have established funds to help support students attending specific post-secondary institutions or pursuing particular fields of study.
The Victoria Foundation endeavors to always respond to community needs and is proud to be able to offer these educational opportunities, to support the next generation as they move into adulthood and begin to tackle the challenges ahead.
A full list of awards is available at victoriafoundation.bc.ca/grants-funding/scholarships.
For more information on BCSS visit bcscholarshipsociety.ca.