The Cmolik Foundations has awarded a $60,000 scholarship to six Surrey schools graduates in recognition of overcoming adversity while excelling academically.

A release by the Cmolik Foundation shares that this scholarship is meant to support students as they pursue post-secondary education while providing mentorship,professional opportunities and access to a network of scholarship recipients and alumni.

Founded in 2008, the Cmolik Foundation supports youth across British Columbia who have experienced adversity. In addition to funding undergraduate education, the foundation is said to offer mentorship, field trips, summer camps and other opportunities aimed at helping students achieve long-term success.

These six Surrey students hail from six different secondary schools in the district, all of which are pursuing some form of higher education in the fall.

Vashnavi Verma

Johnston Heights Secondary graduate Vaishnavi Verma received one of the scholarships as she prepares to attend the University of Toronto to study Life Sciences.

The scholarship selection committee shares that they recognized Verma’s academic achievements, future career aspirations and commitment to helping others.

“I applied to UBC, SFU, UofT, and McGill to pursue a Bachelor of Science in psychology. The rise in mental health issues and generational stigma towards it fueled my aim to individually support people on an emotional, cognitive, and behavioral level,” said Verma.

Johnston Heights teacher Taylor Kim gave Verma praise for her commitment in serving others. “I am in awe of Vaishnavi’s drive and initiative to create positive change. She has a true passion for helping people, especially those that are disadvantaged or marginalized in real, tangible ways. Where she sees a need, she shows up.”

Rhea Kahlon

Enver Creek Secondary graduate Rhea Kahlon was also awarded the $60, 000 scholarship as she prepares to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of British Columbia with a focus on finance.

“I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of British Columbia, focusing on finance. I aim to work in investment banking while leading a nonprofit that provides stable, dependable housing for children with autism,” said Kahlon.

Enver Creek social studies teacher Martin Bailey said Kahlon has consistently demonstrated determination both inside and outside the classroom. “Her goal of studying Commerce at the University of British Columbia and contributing meaningfully to society reflects both ambition and purpose.”

Madison Holborn

L.A. Matheson Secondary graduate Madison Holborn earned a scholarship as she prepares to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Douglas College.

“This (scholarship) will allow me to pursue my love and passion of helping others. I envision myself working as a Post-Anesthesia Care Unit nurse at BC Children’s Hospital in 10 years, caring for kids and truly making a difference,” Holborn said.

L.A. Matheson social studies department head Kailie Crosby had some words to say about Holborn. “Madison is truly a wonderful student, and as her teacher, I have had the privilege of witnessing Maddie’s exceptional academic commitment, personal resilience and compassionate character.”

Karen Zhou

Fleetwood Park Secondary graduate Karen Zhou received the scholarship as she prepares to pursue a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy.

“I am to earn my PharmD from UBC to support and inform others in terms of medications. I see myself working as a pharmacist, using my knowledge to find solutions and guide patients through their medical journey,” said Zhou.

Fleetwood Park sports coach Adryon Hutton described Zhou as someone who quietly leads by example. “Any institution that welcomes Karen will gain not only an excellent student, but a person of substance and character; someone who will give back far more than she receives.”

Jia Singh

École Kwantlen Park Secondary graduate Jia Singh was recognized with the scholarship as she prepares to pursue a bachelor’s degree in health sciences with the goal of becoming a pediatrician.

“Seeing children suffer in Fiji and worldwide because they lack access to basic medical care influenced my dream to become a pediatrician. I hope to achieve a bachelor’s in health sciences and study at the University of Ottawa so I can help those children in need,” explained Singh.

Royal Canadian Air Force Cadets Squadron Commanding Officer Capt. Tarra Heiland shared that Singh’s perseverance has helped her overcome challenges while remaining focused on her goals.

Isaiah Muer

Fraser Heights Secondary graduate Isaiah Muer was also a recipient of the Cmolik scholarship in preparation to pursue a Bachelor of Science in biomedical physiology with the goal of becoming a family physician.

“I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology at UBC or SFU. I chose biology to understand human anatomy and diseases, and how I can translate science into care. I aspire to be a family physician, committing myself to helping others,” shared Muer.

“I have found Isaiah to be very hard-working, kind, reliable, confident, a great team player and a trustworthy leader,” said Christina Mayo, Muer’s manager at the PNE. “I am confident that Isaiah will bring this same dedication to his post-secondary pursuits.”

More information about the Cmolik Foundation and its scholarship programs is available at thecmolikfoundation.com.