West Island Black Community Association scholarships aim to leave no one behind

Applications for academic scholarships offered by the West Island Black Community Association (WIBCA) are now open.

For 41 years, the association has been providing scholarship awards dedicated to supporting and promoting the achievement and academic excellence of Black students.

Financial help that is most appreciated by former recipients, like current McGill University student, Jessica Williams-Daley, who speaks of the award and the message of support it communicates.

“I think that it’s amazing,” she says, “especially when it’s awarded to a Black student. Oftentimes, we don’t really see that model and we don’t really feel as if there’s a space for us to actually achieve academic excellence or even excellence in our community. I think it’s amazing and I’m excited to see more Black students get that financial aid.”

Eligibility pool expanding to help more students

This year the association aims to award a total of four scholarships to both the Black and Indigenous community.

“We have one dedicated to university students,” explains WIBCA committee member Rachelle Rose, “one dedicated to Cegep students, and one that is very special to me, one that’s dedicated to those entering the trades, basically vocational studies, or entering adult education.”

The association relies heavily on volunteers and says that many past recipients return to, in turn, offer help to a group that once helped them improve their odds in life.

While the association primarily assists youth, adults and seniors on the West Island, it has expanded the eligibility pool for the scholarships so anyone in the Greater Montreal area can now apply.

They say they want to ease the burden on all community members and help them achieve their goals.

Education: a priceless commodity

“Education is very important to us,” says WIBCA president Joan Lee, “and that is something we want to help with. Because, once you have an education, no one can take that away from you. We want to be a part of that.”

Scholarships applications are now open until May 26 and those eligible are urged to apply.

“I really do believe that having this platform that enables Black students to receive academic and financial support –and community support — is crucial,” says Williams-Daley.

“Take that chance. Yes. You know, sometimes we get things. But the most important aspect is that you can try and utilize the resources that are there for you.”

Learn more about how to apply for the scholarship here.