AWARDING STUDENTS WHO ARE MAKING AN IMPACT

April Zhong is an Engineering Science student at the University of Toronto with a passion for combining technology, artificial intelligence, and human-centred design to create solutions that improve accessibility, independence, and quality of life. Inspired by a senior who shared how chess brought purpose, connection, and joy to his life, April founded Chess for Connection, a youth-led initiative that brings seniors and youth together through meaningful relationships and shared experiences. Through her leadership, the program has grown from a local volunteer effort into an international movement, engaging hundreds of participants, mobilizing youth volunteers, and helping combat social isolation through intergenerational connection. April is driven by a belief that innovation is most powerful when it brings people together and creates lasting social impact.

Anahat Chhatwal, now in her first year of the Computer Science and Business Administration double‑degree program at the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, has dedicated her early academic journey to making technology more accessible, ethical, and empowering. She founded EmpowerED, a youth-led initiative that helps girls and marginalized students thrive in STEM by blending coding with art, storytelling, and community building. Since launching the initiative in 2024, Anahat has led over 100 volunteers, launched 8 chapters across Ontario and 6 globally, and impacted more than 2,000 students.

Maryam Al-Sabawi of London, Ontario, is the recipient of the 2024 Sean Jackson Scholarship Award. At just 17 years old, Maryam has already established herself as a passionate and resilient leader, dedicated to combating Islamophobia through education and advocacy. Maryam will be attending Western University in the fall to pursue a degree in Health Sciences.