ISSofBC Education Awards

Waypoint Benefits & Financial Services provides comprehensive financial services to businesses, non-profit organizations, and individuals to achieve peace of mind through financial confidence. Waypoint Benefits & Financial Services established this bursary for newcomers to provide financial assistance towards their education, allowing them to reach their career goals. Learn more here.

The $2,500 bursary sponsored by Waypoint Benefits & Financial Services is presented to one eligible recipient, a current or former ISSofBC client (immigrants, Government-Assisted or Convention Refugees) within the past three years who requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies.

Wolfgang Strigel grew up in Munich, Germany. In the mid-seventies, he relocated to Montreal to complete an M.Sc. in Computer Science at McGill. He worked for 15 years in software development, completed an MBA at SFU, and started two software companies. Since selling his companies in 2007, he has volunteered as a mentor for over 60 companies in Canada and internationally.

The Wolfgang Strigel Bursary of $5,000 is awarded to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client within the past three years, and who requires financial assistance to pursue post-secondary education in a STEM-related field (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) in BC.

Dr. Andrew Chan immigrated to Canada in 1972 and earned his Dentistry degree from the University of Toronto. Dr. Elaine She arrived in Canada in 1974 and completed her Dentistry degree at the University of British Columbia. Both are now retired and enjoy traveling, golfing, hiking, and volunteering.

The Dr. She and Dr. Chan Bursaries provide two awards of $2,500 each to eligible recipients who are current or former ISSofBC clients with refugee status. To qualify, applicants must have been clients of ISSofBC within the past three years and demonstrate financial need to pursue their chosen course of studies.

MNP is one of Canada’s leading professional services firms, proudly serving individuals, businesses, and organizations since 1958.

Through developing strong relationships, we provide client-focused accounting, consulting, tax, and digital services. Our clients benefit from personalized strategies with a local perspective to fuel success wherever business takes them.

MNP is a “Made in Canada” firm with made in Canada values. Values like exemplifying integrity in everything we do, conducting ourselves with humility and respect, and embracing the communities where we live, work, and play have guided our compass for over 60 years. They’re the bedrock that keeps us grounded, the character that keeps us honest, and the purpose that keeps us focused.

The $2,500 bursary sponsored by MNP LLP is presented to one eligible recipient who has been a current or former ISSofBC client within the past three years, requires financial assistance to support further education in a business-related program, and is firmly committed to their community.

Roper Greyell LLP is one of Canada’s pre-eminent specialty boutique firms focused on Workplace Law, including employment, labour, human rights, workplace investigations, privacy, workers compensation, and occupational health and safety. The firm’s depth of experience and client-centred approach has earned it the reputation as a trusted resource for employers in BC and Canada.

The $2,500 bursary sponsored by Roper Greyell LLP — Employment and Labour Lawyers is presented to one eligible recipient who has been a current or former ISSofBC client within
the past three years. The bursary is designed for students in legal studies who aim to pursue a career in the legal sector.

Thrive Refuge is a student-led non-profit organization established in Vancouver, British Columbia. It seeks to provide incoming refugees access to musical and fine arts education in Canada. As humanitarian crises and challenges remain prevalent in third-world countries, Thrive Refuge’s mission is to give those refugees the aspects of life often overlooked.

The Thrive Refuge Bursary of $2,500 is awarded to one eligible recipient who has been a current or former ISSofBC client in BC (immigrant, Government-Aided Refugee, or Convention Refugee) within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue education in an accredited music or fine arts-related program in BC.

Pietro Widmer grew up and completed his studies in Electrical Engineering in Switzerland, from where he immigrated to Canada in the mid-seventies. He has twenty years of experience in project and operation management and is now retired, dedicating significant time to volunteering, including a leading role with pm-volunteers.org.

Renée Van Halm grew up in Vancouver after emigrating from Holland with her parents in the early fifties. She is a practicing visual artist with work in significant public, private, and corporate collections nationwide, including the National Gallery of Canada and the Vancouver Art Gallery. She also taught at Emily Carr University of Art and Design for many years.

The $2,500 bursary sponsored by Pietro and Renée is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client (with refugee protection status – protected person or permanent resident) within the past three years, and who requires financial assistance
to support further education in a business-related program, and is firmly committed to their community.

In memory of their father, the Taheri family is proud to establish the Homayoun Taheri Bursary. This bursary honors his unwavering commitment to education and empowerment, particularly for women-identifying individuals with refugee lived experiences. It is designed to help them overcome barriers and pursue their educational aspirations, continuing their father’s legacy of compassion, philanthropy, and transformative impact. This initiative empowers recipients to build brighter futures and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Homayoun Taheri Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies.

The Stocking & Cumming, Chartered Professional Accountants was established in 2009. Its predecessor firms had 25 years of history in Langley and White Rock and the surrounding community. Craig Stocking and Jeff Cumming have both worked for many years with large multinational firms and have experience in a variety of industries. The firm has recently merged with another accounting firm, but wanted to ensure its continued support of the ISSofBC Bursary Program.

The $5,000 bursary sponsored by The Stocking & Cumming Bursary is presented to one eligible recipient who has been a current or former ISSofBC client (with refugee protection status —protected person or permanent resident) within the past three years and requires financial assistance to support further education in business-related studies.

Applicants who demonstrate commitment to community service, including supporting youth sports, will be given priority.

“I would like to honour my parents, Pietro and Italia Santacroce.

As immigrants from Calabria, Italy, Pietro and Italia Santacroce each had no more than a primary school education. They came to Canada, where they were allowed to raise a family and achieve financial success.

My parents held education as Canada’s greatest gift. They supported my sister Rosella and me in all our educational endeavors, whatever they might be. As immigrants, this scholarship speaks directly to their desire that all new Canadians have the educational opportunities they worked hard to provide for their own children.”
— Vincent Santacroce

This bursary is named in honour of Jim Tallman, a former long-serving ISSofBC Board member and dedicated volunteer. ISSofBC is proud to offer this bursary to newcomers pursuing post-secondary education at an accredited institution and to celebrate and recognize Jim’s outstanding contributions to our organization and its mission.

This bursary is generously supported by:
– Miller Thomson LLP
– The Equitable Life Insurance Company of Canada

The Jim Tallman Volunteer Bursary of $2,500 is awarded to one eligible recipient, a current or former ISSofBC client within the past three years who required financial assistance to continue their education. This bursary is intended for students enrolled in legal studies who aspire to pursue a career in the legal sector.

The Credit Union Foundation of BC (CUFBC) is collectively funded by BC credit unions. It provides bursaries to students who reflect credit union/co-operative values and face barriers to completing their post-secondary education. In this co-operative spirit, credit unions have helped thousands of members pursue their dreams and, in turn, build stronger and more vibrant communities.

The $2,500 bursary sponsored by the CUFBC is presented to two eligible recipients who have been current or former ISSofBC clients (with refugee protection status—protected person or permanent resident) within the past three years, require financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies, and are firmly committed to their community.

More information coming soon.

More information coming soon.

More information coming soon.

Arbutus Financial Services Ltd provides comprehensive financial services to businesses, non-profit organizations, and individuals to achieve peace of mind through financial confidence. Arbutus Financial established this bursary for newcomers to provide financial assistance towards their education, allowing them to reach their career goals.

The Arbutus Financial Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client (immigrants, Government-Assisted or Convention Refugees), student, or volunteer. The recipient must have been a client within the past three years who requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies.

Thrive Refuge is a student-led non-profit organization established in Vancouver, British Columbia. It seeks to provide incoming refugees access to musical education in Canada. As humanitarian crises and challenges remain prevalent in third-world countries, Thrive Refuge’s mission is to give those refugees the aspects of life often overlooked in such situations: music. 

The Thrive Refuge Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient, a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years. Financial assistance is required to pursue their education in an accredited music-related program. 

De Jager Volkenant provides a comprehensive range of legal services to meet the special needs of charities and non-profit organizations and help them achieve their unique purposes. Their experienced team of lawyers and staff understands the challenges of its non-profit sector clients, who are often dependent upon volunteers with limited time and resources.

The De Jager Volkenant Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client (immigrants, Government-Assisted or Convention Refugees), student, or volunteer. The recipient must have been a client within the past three years who requires financial assistance to pursue a career in the legal sector.

Dr. Andrew Chan came to Canada in 1972 and obtained his Dentistry degree from the University of Toronto. Dr. Elaine came to Canada in 1974 and obtained her degree in dentistry from the University of British Columbia. Both are now retired and enjoying lots of traveling, golfing, hiking, and volunteering.

Various staff members at ISSofBC contribute to this new $5,000 bursary, which supports the recipient’s post-secondary education aspirations.

This bursary is named after Jim Tallman, a former long-serving ISSofBC Board member and volunteer. ISSofBC is proud to present this bursary to support newcomers pursuing their post-secondary education in an accredited institution to celebrate and recognize Jim’s service to ISSofBC and its mission.
Supporting Donor: Lida Paslar, ex-Board of Directors.

The Jim Tallman Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client (immigrants, Government-Assisted or Convention Refugees), student, or volunteer. The recipient must have been a client within the past three years who requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies.

MNP is one of Canada’s leading professional services firms, proudly serving individuals, businesses, and organizations since 1958. Through developing strong relationships, we provide client-focused accounting, consulting, tax, and digital services. Our clients benefit from personalized strategies with a local perspective to fuel success wherever business takes them. MNP is a “Made in Canada” firm with made in Canada values. Values like exemplifying integrity in everything we do, conducting ourselves with humility and respect, and embracing the communities where we live, work, and play have guided our compass for over 60 years. They’re the bedrock that keeps us grounded, the character that keeps us honest, and the purpose that keeps us focused.

MNP LLP Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to support further education in a business-related program and is firmly committed to their community.

Michael Danchuk, a financial consultant with Investors Group, has strongly supported various community initiatives and has actively contributed his time, energy, and resources to furthering their goals. He established this bursary as part of his commitment to helping newcomers settle in Canada. 

The Michael Danchuck Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who has been a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of study.

Jennifer Natland is the Past Chair of the ISSofBC Board of Directors. She is also Vice President of Real Estate for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and a Registered Professional Planner. Earlier in her career, Jennifer worked in community planning for the City of New Westminster. 

Jennifer has been involved with ISSofBC since 2017, when she and her family began volunteering as settlement mentors. In other volunteer roles, Jennifer served on the alumni council and Council of Advisors for Simon Fraser University’s Urban Studies program from 2012 to 2020. She also served as a commissioner and Vice-Chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission from 2010 to 2012. 

Jennifer Natland Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies. 

The Stocking & Cumming, Chartered Professional Accountants was established in 2009. Its predecessor firms had 25 years of history in Langley and White Rock and the surrounding community. Craig Stocking and Jeff Cumming have both worked for many years with large multinational firms and have experience in a variety of industries.

The Stocking & Cumming Bursary of $5,000 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to support further education in business-related studies.

The applicants who demonstrate commitment to community service, including supporting youth sports, will be given priority. 

Pietro Widmer grew up and completed his studies in Electrical Engineering in Switzerland, where he immigrated to Canada in the mid-seventies. He has twenty years of experience in project and operation management and is now dedicating significant time to volunteering, including a leading role with pm-volunteers.org.
Renée Van Halm grew up in Vancouver after emigrating from Holland with her parents in the early fifties. She is a practicing visual artist in significant public, private, and corporate collections nationwide, including the National Gallery of Canada and the Vancouver Art Gallery.

The Pietro Widmer and Renée Van Halm Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient, a current or former ISSofBC client (immigrants, Government-Assisted or Convention Refugees), student, or volunteer. The recipient must have been a client within the past three years who requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies.

Sasha Ramnarine is a lawyer with Remedios and Company. He helps local and international entrepreneurs and small businesses establish themselves in British Columbia. Sasha is a strong supporter of the business and newcomer communities and was also a member of the ISSofBC Board of Directors.

The Sasha Ramnarine Family Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client (immigrants, Government-Assisted or Convention Refugees), student, or volunteer. The recipient must have been a client within the past three years who requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies.

Wolfgang Strigel grew up in Munich, Germany. In the mid-seventies, he relocated to Montreal to complete an M.Sc. in Computer Science at McGill. He worked for 15 years in software development, completed an MBA degree at SFU, and started two software companies. Since selling his companies in 2007, he has volunteered as a mentor for over 60 companies in Canada and internationally. 

Wolfgang Strigel Bursary of $5,000 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies. 

Roper Greyell LLP was founded in 2006 by lawyers from two leading British Columbia employment and labour law practices. Today, we are one of the most significant employment and labour law firms in Western Canada, with over 50 workplace lawyers serving clients in virtually every sector of the economy, including some of the largest and most sophisticated private and public sector employers in British Columbia and across Canada. Since 2012, we have been named by Canadian Lawyer magazine as one of the Top 10 Labour and Employment Boutique law firms in Canada.
 
The Roper Greyell LLP Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who has been a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years. The bursary is designed for students enrolled in legal studies who aim to pursue a career in the legal sector. 

Founded in 2001, Nucleus is a Canadian Managed IT Services Provider (MSP) focused on providing supercharged IT services to small and medium-sized businesses across Canada. As of July 2022, Nucleus is a team of 80 with a head office in Vancouver, BC and team members across the country and across the globe. For more info, please click here. 

Elevate your Education Bursary, Powered by Nucleus. A $2,500 bursary is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies. 

In memory of their father, the Taheri family is proud to establish the Homayoun Taheri Bursary. This bursary honors his unwavering commitment to education and empowerment, particularly for women-identifying individuals with refugee lived experiences. It is designed to help them overcome barriers and pursue their educational aspirations, continuing their father’s legacy of compassion, philanthropy, and transformative impact. Through this initiative, recipients are empowered to build brighter futures and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Homayoun Taheri Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies. 

The Paslar Family Bursary was established by the Paslar siblings, who immigrated to Canada from Dubai in 1995. Originally from Iran, the four siblings, having built their careers and young families, are deeply committed to supporting newcomers in their educational pursuits. Their collective experiences have shaped their values and instilled in them a profound appreciation for the power of education. This bursary aims to assist newcomers pursuing higher education, alleviating some financial burdens and enabling them to focus on academic and personal growth.

The Paslar Family Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies. 

The Steve and Jacqueline Rad Bursary of $2,500 is presented to one eligible recipient who is a current or former ISSofBC client, student, or volunteer within the past three years and requires financial assistance to pursue their chosen course of studies.