Loran alumnus Ray Cantwell (‘98) met Yim Viriya in 2007 while working as a technical advisor for Samaritan’s Purse Canada. At that time, Viriya was working on Hagar International’s water program in the heart of Cambodia. Viriya noticed a pattern: people’s health would steadily decline after leaving the shelter to reenter the community. He discovered that the lack of access to clean water was causing debilitating disease and eventually death. Viriya was leading a program at Hagar International to promote water filters, hand washing, and eventually, latrine construction. In 2010, the water program became a standalone organization called Clear Cambodia, of which Ray and Viriya were central to the planning. Since then, over 360,000 sand filters have been distributed across the country, impacting over a million Cambodians. 

Thanks to Ray’s involvement, from its inception, Clear Cambodia has benefitted from the contributions of Loran Scholars, with five scholars having completed their not-for-profit summers at the organization since 2012; the latest being Ellen Brisley (‘23), who finished her placement earlier this year. “I learned so much from being able to design an experiment myself and then helping to implement it. I’m lucky to have a great team.”

Summer work experiences are an exciting and transformative aspect of the Loran program. Each summer, Loran Scholars learn from leaders in public policy, enterprise, and not-for-profit sectors across Canada and the world, giving them a well-rounded understanding of postgraduate career paths and preparing them to effect meaningful change as values-driven leaders. Working with not-for-profit, community organizations like Clear Cambodia offers scholars an opportunity to connect their passion with purpose and make a positive impact in underserved communities.

We connected with Ray and Marin MacLeod (‘09)–who completed a work placement with Ray in 2012–to reflect on Loran’s multi-generational connection to Clear Cambodia, the invaluable lessons learned by contributing to community-led work in a new cultural context, and how the hands-on experience Loran Scholars gain abroad can be reinvested into communities across Canada.

Loran: Why is it important for youth to engage in community work at such a critical point in their personal and academic journeys?

Ray: It can bring life to academic learning in a practical way, more so than case studies or videos. Ellen was already interested in water and humanitarian work, but I think it was very fulfilling for her to establish the relationships that she did. Most people who get involved in community work find some kind of connection that keeps them coming back. For example, Marin MacLeod (‘09), who completed her Community Development summer with me at Clear Cambodia in 2012, told me that it was a profoundly influential experience that inspired her to redirect her career path. It’s just so rewarding to know you’re helping people. 

Marin: Local communities are experts at identifying the challenges they face and at generating relevant solutions. By engaging with communities, emerging leaders learn how to collaborate and co-create, as well as develop the humility needed to contribute effectively to teams and projects as they progress in their personal and professional journeys.

Loran: While the Loran program emphasizes the importance of Scholars reinvesting their talents in Canada, how can international experiences contribute to well-rounded leadership development?

Marin: In an increasingly interconnected world, with many global opportunities and threats, it is more important than ever for Canadian leaders, guided by Loran’s principles of character and service, to act on a global stage. Well-rounded leaders are needed—people with experience living, working, and building leadership skills across sectors and geographies. The diverse leadership opportunities afforded to students through Loran set scholars apart and accelerate their leadership trajectory. 

Ray: I often say that when you travel to a new culture or geographic context, it’s like playing a card game; the rules of the game change, but no one tells you which rules have changed. You just have to go and play. You get to learn as you navigate this new situation. You need flexibility and a willingness to learn to adapt professionally, grow personally, and come to appreciate the value of the local community. If you come in thinking you’ve got all the answers and don’t need to learn, you’re not going to have a rewarding experience. If you go into it with flexibility and a willingness to learn, you may find that you learn and grow more than anyone you believe you might be there to help. For Loran scholars, I have noticed that experiences in a novel cultural setting can change their perspective. The scholars I have worked with often return to Canada with broader skills and a renewed purpose that they apply to community service and leadership in Canada. This type of experiential learning is a valuable part of the Loran Leadership Enrichment Program.

Loran: Having seen multiple generations of scholars work with Clear Cambodia, how do you think organizations doing important work in their communities benefit from hiring Loran scholars?

Ray: Clear Cambodia is an entirely locally run organization, so hiring Loran Scholars helps them to get an infusion of outside energy, knowledge, and input within their specific context. In their case, they were looking to advance the design of a sand filter prototype that could be distributed to one family at a time on a lean budget. Ellen has a lot of experience and a network of academics, like me, who could offer fresh ideas and assistance. The team at Clear Cambodia not only got the opportunity to showcase their excellent technical work to someone who demonstrated a curiosity and openness to learn, but also to benefit from thoughtful suggestions on how their systems can be improved. On a practical level, this summer experience gave Ellen and Clear Cambodia’s team the opportunity to work together to accomplish something neither of them could have done alone. 

Loran: Marin, how did working with Clear Cambodia impact your personal or professional journey?

Marin: Working at Clear Cambodia set my career trajectory and remains one of the most significant personal and professional experiences of my life. My time in Cambodia reinforced my passion for public health, especially the social determinants of health, and introduced me to some of the most influential mentors in my life, Viriya and Ray. Viriya managed a national NGO, leading with heart and fostering collaboration and innovation, ultimately ensuring that the communities where Clear operated were at the centre of our work.

Ray has mentored me since 2012, when he supervised my community development summer and went on to co-supervise my undergraduate honours thesis, “Issues in access to safe drinking water and basic hygiene for persons with physical disabilities in rural Cambodia”, which we published in the Journal of Water and Health. After my community development summer at Clear Cambodia, Ray and I worked together on various projects for the next five years and are still in regular contact! 

As a result of my time spent living and working in Cambodia on and off between 2012 and 2014, I pursued a master’s in public health at the University of Toronto in 2015 and have been working in the global development space since. I now lead the Reach Alliance, a consortium of global universities developing the leaders we need to solve urgent local challenges of regions that are underserved for geographic, administrative, or social reasons. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide inspiration and a guiding framework for Reach’s work, and I reflect regularly on my time spent collaborating with communities in rural Cambodia. My time learning from Viriya and Ray shaped my personal, academic, and professional life in a profound way, and I am forever grateful to Loran for providing this life-changing opportunity.

Loran: How might pursuing an international placement impact a scholar’s perspective when returning to Canada?

Ray: When I was an in-stream Scholar, I met an elderly man while building bio filters. He told me how excited he was to have a water filter in his home to access safe drinking water; he was just wondering at the marvel of that. I had studied water sanitation before, but I always think back to that gentleman who thought something I had always taken for granted would never be achievable in his lifetime. When you have transformative experiences like that early enough in your professional development, it can help you, can shape you, and bring to life how different people’s experiences are in the world. 

Now, I teach a course at the University of Toronto called Water Sanitation, Hygiene and Global Health. I invited Ellen to present the findings of her summer with Clear Cambodia to my students so they can see the real-life implementation of the concepts they’ve been learning. Ellen got to frame her work, present it to an academic community, and engage in conversation. There are so many opportunities to bring Loran Scholars’ experience right back to Canadian classrooms and organizations.

Loran: As an active alumni volunteer and donor, what inspires you to keep investing in your Loran community?

Ray: I truly benefited from this community as a scholar and as an alumnus. Now, as an assessor, I get so much energy from reading the applications and finding out what this latest generation of young people is up to— it’s inspiring. When Ellen reached out to me, I committed to being there to support her through her placement. I was able to give her a lot of logistical and cultural advice. We talked about things like the importance of setting achievable yet aggressive goals, budgeting, and managing stakeholders throughout her time there. It’s fulfilling to see and support the transformation of in-stream Scholars.

Marin: As a donor and the current Chair of the Loran Alumni Council, investing in the Loran community is hugely important to me. Each summer experience provided a unique and important learning opportunity, and I continue to learn from the community of lifelong friends and mentors that Loran encompasses. Now more than ever, character, service, and leadership are needed as the world addresses urgent climate, public health, and economic challenges. I am inspired by the Loran community and will continue contributing however I can to support its growth and impact in the world. 

Want to learn more about Loran Scholars’ Summer Experiences? Watch our Instagram story highlight to join Scholars for a day-in-the-life in Canada and abroad, and learn more about Loran’s program here. If you are interested in employing a Loran Scholar for a future summer, learn more here. 

Loran alumnus Anthony Létourneau (‘21) was recently announced as one of 30 new McCall MacBain Scholars. Open to students worldwide selected for their purpose and integrity, the McCall MacBain Scholarship funds students’ pursuit of a professional degree or Master’s at McGill University in Montrèal, QC. Anthony is the second Loran Scholar to go on to receive this distinction. 

Growing up, Anthony was passionate about science and innovation, often watching documentaries and tinkering with mechanisms and electronics in his spare time. But everything changed when he participated in his first robotics competition. “It helped me realize that it was possible to translate my ideas into something tangible,” he says. 

“As my studies progressed, I realized that the concepts I was learning were essential to the development of new technologies that will help us combat the greatest challenge my generation will face: climate change.” This fall, Anthony will pursue a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, focusing on creating artificial materials designed to exhibit predetermined behaviors when exposed to certain conditions. 

He credits the Loran community and its four-year leadership enrichment program with not only providing support for his academic goals but helping him become more curious and courageous as well. The opportunity to study outside of his home province, both in Canada and abroad, for summer work experiences helped him grow personally and academically.

“Loran encouraged me to think outside the box, explore the unknown, and try new things. It allowed me to consider areas I wouldn’t have thought about otherwise, including my future field of study. The enriching exchanges I had with my mentor and peers helped refine my thinking, broaden my perspectives, and strengthen my self-confidence. The Loran community has been synonymous with support, and that’s what allowed me to move forward and feel confident about starting this new chapter.”

When it comes to joining the McGill and McCall MacBain Scholars communities, Anthony says he’s excited about many things, but he most looks forward to the opportunity to connect and work with fellow scholars from different countries and backgrounds who all share one thing in common: the desire to build a better world.

In 1989, Dr. Robert Cluett became the founding Chairman and CEO of the Loran Scholars Foundation (then known as the Canadian Merit Scholarship Foundation).

Having identified a significant gap in the Canadian system of support for university students. First of all, support tended to benefit most those with exceptionally high academic averages or phenomenal athletic abilities. And secondly, the support was predominantly financial. 

Dr. Cluett, however, had a vision of providing something unique: financial aid, yes, but also mentorship and leadership development. And the benefactors he had in mind were different, too. He aimed to seek out exceptional young Canadians, identified by evidence of strength of character, the potential for leadership, and the drive to serve and uplift their communities. 

An early proponent of merit-based selection, Dr. Cluett lauded that character is demonstrated by what students do with the opportunities they are given within the context, considering the circumstantial constraints of their backgrounds and upbringings. He insisted that breadth, openness to challenge, compassion, resilience, and willingness to take meaningful risks were of greater importance than quantitative and conventional measures of past success or future potential. This created an unprecedented, equity-based opportunity for students from all regions, demographics, and socio-economic statuses of Canada. 

Fuelled by the conviction that Canada would prosper if these high-potential students were given the chance to imagine, explore, and create the future, Loran’s mission was to find and nurture the country’s next generation of young people who are driven by integrity, courage, grit, and a dedication to leaving the world better than they found it. 

At Loran’s inception, five universities—McMaster, McGill, Toronto, Waterloo, and York—recognized the value of Dr. Cluett’s forward-looking vision and stepped up to signal their support as founding partners: committing to co-investing in Loran Scholars by providing matching tuition waivers for students who chose to study on their campuses. These original members of Loran’s university consortium formed the bedrock of the Loran Award, enabling the Foundation to provide students with funding to study on Canadian campuses, access to the country’s best academic programs, a connected and collaborative post-secondary community, and a breadth of opportunities to enrich their education; so they might go on to reinvest their talents in shaping the nation’s future.  

This year marks more than 35 years of Loran’s enduring partnerships with not just the founding five, but also Dalhousie University, which joined one year later. To celebrate this milestone, a few of our partners recently shared their stories of our incredible partnership. You can read them through the links below. 

• Celebrating 35 years of Loran Scholars, McGill University
• ‘Leaving the world a better place’: Marking 35 years of Loran Scholars at Dalhousie, Dalhousie University
• McMaster and Loran Scholars Foundation celebrate 36 years of excellence in leadership, McMaster University
• Leadership grounded in integrity and service, University of Waterloo 

Without the support of these universities, and all the others that followed, we would not have been able to identify, equip, and empower generations of values-driven young people. 

Along with all of the individuals, companies, and foundations whose gifts support our mission, our partner universities ensure Loran can continue cultivating a diverse community of leaders of integrity who make meaningful, lifelong contributions to their communities and build a brighter world. We celebrate and thank them for joining us on this journey.

Volunteers from all corners of the country are at the heart of the Loran Scholars Foundation. Intimately involved with Loran’s in-depth selection process, Loran assessors and interviewers play a pivotal role in identifying potential scholars and shifting the trajectory of young students’ lives. Loran mentors and presenters support us in building Loran Scholars’ capacity to lead. Through inspiration and guidance, they challenge and shape these optimistic changemakers at a formative time in their lives.

While our network of more than 600 volunteers comes from diverse careers, backgrounds, and locations, what draws them to Loran is their commitment to the qualities we look for in Loran Scholars. In celebration of National Volunteer Week, first-time mentor Anissa Hilborn and longtime volunteer Jorge Salazar share what inspires them to volunteer for Loran and within their communities and why others should consider volunteering for Loran, too.

How long have you been volunteering with Loran? 

Anissa: This is my first year, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience already!

Jorge: I’ve been volunteering with Loran for over five years. What began as a way to give back to an organization that supports young leaders has grown into a constant reminder of how mentorship and opportunity can transform futures.

What inspired you to get involved?

Anissa: I’ve always been passionate about mentoring, particularly when it comes to fostering female leadership. The idea of supporting and creating new leaders really resonates with me, especially since I have kids around the same age as the scholars. It’s easy to see the importance of having access to a mentor who can guide and inspire you along the way. I am optimistic about the future, and being part of Loran allows me to contribute to shaping that future in a meaningful way.

Jorge: Somaya Amiri, a 2015 Loran Scholar, inspired me deeply. Seeing how the scholarship empowered her to grow as a leader and young woman—and how she, in turn, uplifted her community—showed me the ripple effect of this Foundation’s work. As someone who believes fiercely in investing in the next generation, I wanted to contribute to a mission that aligns with my values: equipping young people to lead with courage and compassion, especially those whose potential might otherwise be overlooked.

We look for three core qualities at Loran: strong character, a commitment to service, and leadership potential. How would you say you embody or exemplify these in your own life, either professionally or in any other volunteer roles you may hold?

Anissa: For me, authenticity is essential. I strive to lead with integrity and stay true to my values in everything I do. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have generous female mentors who have inspired me to step into leadership roles and, in turn, give back to others. Their support has made an enormous impact, and I aim to pass that on. My entire career has been focused on fundraising to improve lives and make a difference in the community. Giving back is not just an action for me; it’s a commitment I live by.

Jorge: My passion for service is rooted in my own story. As a refugee from Colombia, I know how systems can fail vulnerable communities. Today, I work to bridge local and global justice—whether supporting migrant networks in Canada or standing with Indigenous communities reclaiming their rights. Service means listening to those most affected and walking alongside them, not ‘saving’ from afar.

Leadership is about following the needs of the community. In my work facilitating leadership programs, I support creating spaces where communities can articulate their own priorities—whether it’s migrant families advocating for better support systems or Indigenous partners in their right to self-determination. My role is to listen deeply, amplify their voices, and mobilize resources they identify as critical.

I strive to act with integrity, but I also recognize that growth comes from missteps. When I make mistakes, I try to face them with honesty, whether it’s revisiting a biased assumption or repairing harm in a relationship when possible. Integrity means centring marginalized voices, even when it’s uncomfortable, and staying open to unlearning.

Loran could not do this work without the support of people like you, but in turn, how has volunteering with Loran added value to your life, personally or professionally?

Anissa: Volunteering with Loran has been such a meaningful experience for me. On a personal level, it’s been deeply rewarding to connect with such an intelligent, driven, and compassionate young person. Professionally, mentoring has given me the opportunity to evolve as a leader. Supporting someone else’s growth has a way of making you reflect on your progress and pushing you to keep improving.

Jorge: It has been an enriching experience, affirming the power of investing in young people. Every time I sit down to interview an applicant with other volunteer assessors, I’m reminded of how much passion, resilience, and drive exist. Working alongside committed individuals has made me a better listener, a more thoughtful leader, and someone who thinks more deeply and strategically about equity and access.

Why should others consider volunteering for Loran?

Anissa: Mentoring with Loran allows you to step outside your day-to-day routine and see the world through a fresh perspective. It challenges you to be a better listener, a more thoughtful advisor, and a more intentional leader. And honestly, it’s just fun. Loran Scholars bring so much energy and curiosity to every conversation. If you’re thinking about volunteering for Loran, my advice would be simple: Do it. You feel like you’re part of something bigger, contributing to change that touches communities far and wide. And that feels incredible.

Jorge: It means becoming part of a community that believes in potential, service, and the idea that leadership rooted in character and integrity can shape a better future. If you’re someone who wants to make a tangible difference, connect with exceptional young leaders, and be inspired in return, Loran is full of that energy. You don’t have to be perfect—just willing to show up, listen, and support—that alone can change lives! 

There are many ways to get involved with Loran. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit this page or get in touch with Katy Quinn, Loran’s Volunteer and Selections Officer.

Incredible things are possible when Loran Scholars work together. Though Abygail Montague (‘21) and Vanessa Memeh (’23) attended high school in the same city, they crossed paths for the first time during a scholarship webinar, where Abygail’s testimony inspired Vanessa to apply for the Loran Award. Since then, they’ve strengthened their bond as fellow Scholars and peers at Western University in London, ON. 

Currently, their collaborative efforts are focused on supporting students with the Black Students Association (BSA), where Vanessa is a finance coordinator and Abygail is completing a term as co-president. As a team, they have helped facilitate dozens of events and programs, including organizing Convergence, a coalition-building conference for BSAs across Ontario in collaboration with yet another Loran Scholar Sam Lowe (‘21) from Queen’s University earlier this month.

As the academic year comes to a close, we spoke with Abygail and Vanessa about the importance of building cross-generational connections, developing an authentic leadership style, and the shared values that guide their work. Read our conversation below.

Loran: How did you two meet?

Vanessa: The first time I met Aby was through a screen at a scholarship event in Grade 12. Aby was there and I remember being very inspired by her—that was one of my first introductions to her. I never really sought her out, but we connected a bit when I became a Loran Scholar, and then more so when I decided to come to Western. It’s been lovely getting to know her.

Abygail: I participated in a scholarship event talking about the opportunities and community I’ve gained through Loran. We’re both from Hamilton; I remember being so happy to hear that somebody from Hamilton got the Loran Award. My sister was working at Vanessa’s school at the time, so getting to go to the celebration they had for her and introduce myself in person was super exciting. I’m glad I was able to bring Vanessa into the Black Students’ Association in a new role she’s excelling at.

Loran: Tell us about one achievement in your roles in the BSA you’re particularly proud of.

Vanessa: In my role as finance officer, because I’m first in the role, I’m defining it as I go. One of the things I really wanted to focus on is structuring the finances more strategically and developing a three-model system. That’s one thing I would say I’m proud of because it made the planning of events a lot more efficient.

Abygail: And her efforts are so important, especially when we are trying to ensure we have the financial capacity to provide a better Black experience for students on campus.

As co-president, I tend to like to be behind the scenes, and my counterpart takes on a lot more of the front-facing roles. I was the first lead on the Black History Month committee in my second year. I did my policy placement the summer prior, which I hadn’t known anything about. I think being in a new position allows for a lot of creativity, so I took those experiences and applied them to the role. It sparked something I remained passionate about coming into the co-president role: creating organizational structures that we can pass down. We introduced the Black History Month Council, a finance coordinator, and an internal coordinator, as well as two content creators where we’re able to use students’ talents and help them build their portfolio.

Loran: Why is it important to build community among Black students across generations and disciplines?

Vanessa: Representation matters. As someone who came here in 2018 from Nigeria, I quickly recognized the importance of having people who not only look like you but have the same goals and want to talk about the same issues; there’s really an unspoken aspect to community. It’s just a hub of amazing individuals gathered together to advance the social life of Black students on campus. I think the BSA not only acknowledges that, but represents it on a daily basis.

Abygail: Coming to university where you are more independent, a lot more support is needed, especially for students who don’t have as many people who look like them around them. Building space for Black students to come together, engaging with Black faculty and community members, being a touch point for high school students, and offering mentorships and special opportunities for cross-generational community-building is so important. The legacy that BSA has been able to build over its time here on the campus is something that my co-president and I want to keep doing in addition to introducing new initiatives so students know that they’re not alone here on campus.

Loran: How has your experience with the BSA helped develop your personal growth as a leader?

Vanessa: I never imagined I’d enjoy the nitty gritty of finance; it’s a field I never would have considered for myself. It’s also caused me to seek out more opportunities, which has yielded positive results. I’ve also gotten a lot of feedback that’s helped me learn about myself and my work style. It’s taught me to be meticulous, seek innovative solutions, and be quick on my feet. It’s really been a turning point. 

Abygail: I’ve learned to be more honest with myself, as well as ask for honesty from others. In this position, it’s important to be curious about everyone on your team, not only from the perspective of their specific role, but also that understanding that everyone is a student. Getting to know people from a personal perspective and the relationship-building skills I’ve developed helped grow this community.

Loran: What shared experiences or values guide you when working with a fellow Scholar?  

Abygail: The biggest thing is a shared understanding of leadership. Vanessa would definitely understand that my not being front-facing doesn’t mean that I’m not doing the work to make changes and be a leader. Knowing that there’s somebody there who also can see and recognize those things without me having to over-explain myself is super comforting. I also know I can rely on her to take and implement feedback, as well as give me feedback in a way that’s constructive to help me develop my leadership skills.

Loran: How do you envision yourself embodying character, service, and leadership as you continue your academic and career journey?

Vanessa: By just being curious. You can only embody good character, serve people, and be a great leader when you’re open with yourself and have genuine care for what you’re doing. I try to show a level of commitment in everything I do, academically or within BSA, and I hope to continue to do that.

Abygail: Some things I will be reminding myself as I move on from Western and this role with the BSA this year are to be curious, have grit, and stay humble. And to continue to serve others in whatever aspect that means—I don’t need to start something super big or have a really big title. Even the little things that I do through work or volunteering can make a meaningful change.

Last month, we announced the Class of 2025, and communities from coast to coast to coast—including English and French media outlets—are celebrating the incoming cohort. Catch up on the news below:

• Teen from Surrey high school chosen for prestigious $100K scholarship, The Peace Arch News
• Marilou Frenette décroche la prestigieuse Bourse Loran 2025, Telegraph Journal
• Teen from Surrey high school chosen for prestigious $100K scholarship, Surrey Now Leader
• ‘I honestly couldn’t believe it’: Windsor student lands prestigious nationwide scholarship, CTV Windsor
• Two Saskatoon teens receive $100,000 Loran Award, CTV Saskatoon
• Two Yellowknife students named 2025 Loran Scholars, Cabin Radio
• 4 N.B. Students to Receive Loran Award, Country 94.1
• Two Yellowknife Students Selected as Loran Scholars, My True North Now
• Teen from Surrey high school chosen for prestigious $100K scholarship, North Delta Reporter
• Clara Calosi, étudiante en Sciences humaines, remporte la prestigieuse Bourse Loran, Les Cegeps
• Tignish teen wins prestigious award, CBC Island Morning
• Cégep de Rimouski : bourse de 100 000$ pour une étudiante, Journal ce soir
• Une nouvelle boursière Loran 2025: Irina Iankova, Acadie Nouvelle
• Samaël Grant remporte la Bourse Loran, Les Cegeps
• Une élève du CSDCEO Boursière Loran pour la deuxième année consécutive, AMEQ en ligne
• NHS Student Named a 2025 Loran Scholar, Hanover School Division
• Un parcours exceptionnel récompensé : un étudiant reçoit la Bourse Loran, Les Cegeps
• “Samaël Grant reçoit une prestigieuse bourse de 100 000$, Acadie Nouvelle
• Westisle student becomes school’s first Loran Scholar, West Prince Graphic
• Chatelech Secondary School grad’s life-changing award comes with community, Coast Reporter
• Eddy Paez: Not Your Average Teenager, Niverville Citizen
• Rattrapage du vendredi 28 mars 2025, Le réveil – Radio Canada
• Newfoundland student awarded Loran Scholarship, CBC Radio Newfoundland and Labrador
• Loran Scholarship sets Indigenous Saanich student on path to transform education, Saanich News
• Salmo teen named 2025 Loran Scholar, My Nelson Now
• Devoted Nanaimo student lands prestigious scholarship, Nanaimo News Now
• USS student wins $100,000 scholarship, The Uxbridge Cosmos
• Salmo resident, LVR student named as national Loran Scholar, Castanet
• Daisy Bains – Surrey’s Rising Star and Loran Scholar, Darpan Magazine
• École Kwantlen Park Secondary student’s cultural initiatives earn her 2025 Loran Award, Surrey Schools
• 100 000$ pour une étudiante engagée, Matins sans frontières – Radio Canada
• Four years of service leads to Loran scholarship, Catholic Register
• Saskatoon student receives national recognition for innovative braille device, CBC Saskatoon

Last month, 90 students from all corners of Canada convened in Toronto for Loran’s National Selections weekend hoping to be named a 2025 Loran Scholar. From those 90 finalists—each of whom has demonstrated strength of character, a deep commitment to service, and exceptional leadership potential—only 36 were selected.

These outstanding young people were chosen from a pool of more than 6,000 applicants. To find them, we look beyond marks to identify students with a guiding sense of purpose and a commitment to giving back. Starting last October, applicants participated in an in-depth, nationwide selections process, including essays, video submissions and Zoom interviews, carried out by more than 500 volunteer assessors. National Selections weekend was the final phase. The entire experience is rigorous but rewarding—a chance for each participant to grow, reflect, and build connections with other community-engaged youth.

Being selected as a 2025 Loran Scholars marks the start of a new journey of self-discovery, inspiration, challenge, and transformation that lasts a lifetime. Coming from 33 different communities across the country—including Gwa’yi on the coast of British Columbia, Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, Newfoundland and many more—the qualities and accomplishments of these students are unique. But what unites them as Loran Scholars is their willingness and courage to challenge the status quo, their capacity to collaborate to drive meaningful change, and their dedication to uplifting their communities, whether locally or globally.

Here’s a snapshot of what makes the new cohort of students stand out: One scholar is the president of a non-profit that raises money for children in Uganda; another co-created a bowling league for students with disabilities; one started an immigrant cycling initiative in her city; another developed projects to combat financial insecurity in his regional Cégeps; one runs her own calligraphy business; and another is heading to a conference in New Zealand to explore Indigenous initiatives and bring new insights back to the North. The leadership exemplified by the 36 new Loran Scholars gives us hope that Canada will thrive when such values-driven youth are supported as they imagine, explore, and build a brighter future.

The Loran Award gives these exceptional students a launchpad to unlock their potential and empowers them to make positive change in their communities. Loran Scholars benefit from a four-year, leadership-enrichment program, diverse opportunities for experiential learning, financial support throughout undergraduate studies, and a network of values-driven peers and mentors—unlike anything else in this country. Offered in partnership with 25 Canadian universities, it is valued at more than $100,000.

Class of 2025

Sohaib Abdillahi
École Secondaire Publique Gisèle-Lalonde
Ottawa, ON

Carly Akoto
James M. Hill Memorial High School
Redmondville, NB

Magfira Ali
Britannia Secondary School
Vancouver, BC

Madison Anstey
Prince of Wales Collegiate
Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, NL

Daisy Bains
École Kwantlen Park Secondary
Surrey, BC

Charlotte Bolduc
Aldershot School
Oakville, ON

Jaider Cabarcas
Cégep de Sainte-Foy
Québec, QC

Clara Calosi
Cégep de Rimouski
Rimouski, QC

Audrey Debogorski
École St. Patrick High School
Yellowknife, NT

Chioma Ezeonyejiaku
Simonds High School
Saint John, NB

Stella Fairman
École St. Patrick High School
Yellowknife, NT

Marilou Frenette
École Marie-Gaétane
Kedgwick, NB

Lauren Gallant
La Crete Public School
La Crete, AB

Sullivan Gaudet
Westisle Composite High School
Tignish, PE

Joti Gokaraju
Walter Murray Collegiate
Saskatoon, SK

JoyGold Goodluck
Father Henry Carr Catholic Secondary School
Toronto, ON

Samaël Grant
Cégep de Matane
Matane, QC

Kate Hagens
Notre Dame Collegiate
High River, AB

Olivia Harapiak
Gimli High School
Gimli, MB

Lana Harrell
St. Stephen High School
St. Stephen, NB

Becky Harrison
École secondaire catholique de Plantagenet
Saint-Pascal Baylon, ON

Irina Iankova
École Sainte-Anne
Fredericton, NB

Nardeen Ibrahim
Chatelech Secondary School
Sechelt, BC

Mallory Maschke
Uxbridge Secondary School
Uxbridge, ON

Corben Mikol
L.V. Rogers Secondary
Salmo, BC

Ella Moser
Horton High School
Wolfville, NS

Edna Nortey
William Lyon Mackenzie
Collegiate Institute
Toronto, ON

Eddy Paez
Niverville High School
Niverville, MB

Shay Parreira
Notre Dame Catholic
Secondary School
Burlington, ON

Alessandro Raniolo
St. Michaels University School
Kingcome Inlet, BC

Asma Razi
Windsor Islamic High School
Windsor, ON

Rocky Sloan
Dover Bay Secondary School
Nanaimo, BC

Sanay Sood
The Woodlands
Secondary School
Mississauga, ON

Aishwarya Tandon
Bur Oak Secondary School
Markham, ON

Shravya Verma
Aden Bowman
Collegiate Institute
Saskatoon, SK

Sarah Watson
Rothesay High School
Quispamsis, NB

After a transformative experience at National Selections, Nain Abdi (’22) was eager to join the Loran community, so he could barely hide his excitement when he got the call a few short weeks later. “I wasn’t supposed to tell anyone I got the award, but everyone in the room could tell. It felt amazing, not just for the financial aspect, but also because it validated everything I had accomplished,” he said. 

Fast forward a few years, Nain is in his third year in the University of Waterloo’s electrical engineering program, wrapping up his first term as president of the university’s chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). Aimed at empowering Black engineering students both academically and professionally, NSBE hosts events focused on everything from helping students study for exams to connecting students with Black engineers working at companies like Google, NASDAQ, and Bloomberg. 

One of Nain’s goals as chapter president has been building a deeper connection to NSBE’s broader community. When Nain attended the annual NSBE conference last year along with a few representatives from his chapter, they realized what they were missing. “Schools from everywhere were showing up with dozens of students and people were getting hired on the spot. We saw how much more impactful our chapter could be if we got involved.” Through conversation with company sponsors, they raised $15,000 to send twice as many students to this year’s conference in Chicago.

Nain attributes his confidence in developing values-based corporate partnerships, which makes him an effective leader, to his Loran mentor Iain Klugman, CEO at NorthGuide. Ian not only introduced Nain to engineers from many different fields during his first year but also helped Nain feel included in the Waterloo region. “What’s remarkable is how Nain combines bold, inspiring ideas with genuine humility. People naturally want to follow his lead because they can see he’s not just talking about change—he’s making it happen,” Iain said. “But what truly sets Nain apart is his deep commitment to others’ success. He’s not just focused on his path forward; he’s dedicated to uplifting everyone around him.”

Loran’s Leadership Development Coaching program connects interested upper-year scholars with leadership coaches who guide them toward fulfilling their personal, academic, professional, and community goals, which Nain said helps him focus his efforts. His coach has helped him learn to have faith in others—a hallmark of an authentic leader whose impact outlives their tenure. “There are so many things I want to fix, but Anowa taught me to focus on one tangible goal and trust that future students will continue to build on our work. By showing commitment, we might even start a chain reaction.”

During his time as NSBE president, Nain began to recognize that Black students do not have access to the same resources as other students. To fill the gap, he began developing Boardroom, a platform that offers skills-based assessments for companies and low-cost educational tools for engineers. When capable candidates miss out on positions because they don’t have the right connections, Nain considers that a loss for both the candidates and organizations because diverse, socially mindful teams create better work. “Someone might find a solution to a problem you may not have considered because they’ve experienced it themselves. Especially within the Black engineering community, we’re inclined to help people,” he said. “Empathy is a very powerful thing.”

Staying connected with the Loran community through his mentor, attending the annual Scholars’ Retreat, and volunteering at National Selections reinvigorates Nain’s passion and pushes him to keep working diligently to find creative solutions to the issues he encounters. “When we’re able to tie character, service, and leadership in with the work we’re doing—and I think Loran Scholars do a very good job of that—it leads to more success. It becomes empowering to do good.” 

To finalists preparing for National Selections Weekend, Nain shares two pieces of advice: give yourself grace and strive to do as much as you can with the resources you have. “That’s the beauty of Loran; it opens the door for anybody to make a difference,” he explained. “You might think something that you did was small, but if you start telling that story, you’ll realize it was pretty important to the lives you touched.”

Last month, we announced the 90 exceptional young people who have been selected as 2025 Loran Finalists, and communities across Canada are celebrating their achievements. Check out a selection of recent media features below:

• High River High School student is up for a very prestigious award, Okotoks Online
• Loran Scholar finalist in P.E.I., CBC Island Morning
• Saskatoon teen up for prestigious Loran Scholar prize, CBC Saskatoon Morning
• Finalistes pour la Bourse Loran 2025, Les Cegeps
• 90 exceptional students across Canada named Loran Award finalists, Education News Canada
• Maple Ridge student finalist for prestigious award, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows News
• Newmarket, Aurora students vying for award valued at $100K, Newmarket Today
• Three YK students on 2025 Loran Award shortlist, Cabin Radio
• Two Surrey students shortlisted for 2025 Loran Award worth $100,000, Education News Canada
• Three NWT Students Revealed as Finalists for 2025 Loran Awards, My True North Now
• NWT Loran Finalists Share Thoughts on Nominations & Plans for Future, My True North Now
• 2 Surrey students ‘grateful’ to be shortlisted for $100K scholarship, North Delta Reporter
• Un étudiant du Cégep de Matane finaliste de la Bourse Loran, Les Cegeps
• SKSS student activist Ryder Dobson in running for prestigious national award, Castanet Kamloops
• Three 2025 Loran Finalists from our region, CBC Information Morning – Saint John
• Confronting Injustice: Young Changemaker Advocates for Nuclear Peace, Niverville Citizen

In February, 90 students dedicated to making the world a better place will convene in Toronto as Loran Finalists for our National Selections. These outstanding young people were selected from more than 6,000 others who applied for the 2025 Loran Award. Only 36 of these students will be named as the newest Loran Scholars in March. 

The Loran Scholars Foundation believes the key to building a brighter future is empowering values-driven youth ready to embrace the challenge of leaving the world better than they found it. To find these young people, we look beyond marks to identify students with a guiding sense of purpose: those who demonstrate strength of character, a deep commitment to service, and exceptional leadership potential.

This year, finalists are travelling to Toronto from every corner of the country, from Black Creek, BC, to Whitehorse, YT, to Clarenville, NL, some of them leaving their community or getting on a plane solo for the first time. Over the course of the National Selections weekend, taking place Feb. 21-23, finalists will participate in a rigorous schedule of back-to-back interviews, seminars, and workshops. The process is challenging, but also highly rewarding—a chance for students to grow, reflect, and build connections with other community-engaged students. 

No two candidates are the same, but united in their desire to create positive change, here are a few ways finalists have already uplifted and continue to uplift their communities: 

• Secured a grant to build a prototype inspired by virtual-reality technology to support people living with epilepsy. 
• Founded a provincial Islamic Relief Collegial team, and expanded it to six post-secondary institutions within the year, with three more joining soon. 
• Organized and led advocacy and fundraising campaigns for orphans, raising $70,000, and sponsoring more than 100 orphans.
• Started an Instagram business at 13, making embroidered hats, canvases, patches, etc.
• Representing Team Ontario in Wheelchair Racing, and aspires to represent Canada internationally in the future.
• Founded an organization connecting students with the elderly population through performing arts in senior’s homes.

Naming only 36 Loran Scholars from a large pool of candidates with such incredible potential requires dedication and diligence. Nationals weekend is the final phase in Loran’s in-depth and nationwide selections process, which is carried out through the work of hundreds of volunteer assessors and interviewers, all of whom also embody the qualities of character, service, and leadership we look for in candidates. 

Offered in partnership with 25 Canadian universities, the Loran Award is the only award of its kind in Canada. Those selected as Loran Scholars benefit from a four-year leadership-enrichment program, financial support for undergraduate studies in the form of a tuition waiver and living stipend, diverse opportunities for experiential learning, one-on-one mentorship from a business or community leader, scholar gatherings, and a long-term community of peers, alumni, and supporters from coast to coast to coast.

Finalists not selected as Loran Scholars are eligible to receive a one-time $6,000 Loran Finalist Award tenable at any Canadian university. At the conclusion of our semi-final interviews, 70 students who distinguished themselves at that level received one-time $3,000 Loran Provincial & Territorial Awards. Overall, we will be investing close to $4M in 160 students across Canada this year.

Together, more than 680 Loran alumni form a diverse ecosystem of purpose-driven leaders pushing boundaries across an array of fields, such as technology, the arts, law, science, education, and finance. Moreover, eight Loran Scholars have gone on to clerk for the Supreme Court and 25 have been selected as Rhodes Scholars. Though their work spans a multitude of sectors and disciplines, Loran alumni share and continue to be guided by Loran’s core values of character, service, and leadership. Wherever their paths lead them, Loran Scholars share a lifelong commitment to leaving things better than they found them. Read more about the impact Loran alumni are making here and here.

Donate to Loran’s Fly a Finalist to Nationals Campaign today!

 Fly a Finalist to Nationals; Click here to donate points.

Media Contact
Lisa Paul, Manager, Community Engagement & Communications
lisa.paul@loranscholar.ca

2025 Loran Finalists