Recipient of the Jean Augustine Black Legends Bursary: KAMAYA

Name

Kamaya

Institution

York University

Field of Study/ Major

French Studies

Please share what the Bursary program has meant for you so far in your post-secondary journey (mentorship, financial aid, career assistance)

The Bursary program has been amazing in my post-secondary journey as it has aided in terms of mentorship, financial and career assistance. The program has provided me with financial aid coming out of high school, and my family has been very appreciative as it has been covering my tuition and books which is aiding me with attaining a higher education. The program also has connected me with mentors who have hided me and supported me throughout my journey. They shared their wisdom, advice, experience and give me the confidence to pursue my dreams into a reality, and to see me on track to attain my goals. I am able to navigate the challenges of my career path. The program has also offered many workshops, networking opportunities and job placement services. The Bursary program was able to connect me to a job experience based off of my future career, which I am still a part of today and I am so grateful that I was able to connect with them. The Bursary program has really been an incredible resource that has truly shaped my post-secondary experience.

⁠Any comments you would like to share about being matched with the Black Legend that your September 2023 Bursary was named after (please refer to the details that can be found at pinballfoundation.ca/legends)

I am honored to be matched with the Black Legend Jean Augustine. Jean Augustine is a role model for everyone as Ms. Augustine puts hard work and devotion into social justice and making the world a better place. Ms Augustine is involved in many boards such as York University, which I can directly relate to as that is my university. She was able to implement a multiculturalism policy in 1971, which is very monumental. She was also the first African-Canadian to be elected to Canada's House of Commons. Jean Augustine is a role model to me as a black woman, and I had the pleasure of meeting her through the Youth Lead Conference provided by the Bursary therefore I am forever thankful!

2023 Academic/Personal Highlight

One of my academic highlights was when I received an A on a research project which then included a presentation that I worked hard on. It was such a rewarding feeling to receive such an amazing mark, as public speaking is something I struggle with. I was able to build up my courage by relating to mentors within the program as well as other students who go through the same experiences as me. It was a nerve-racking experience, but I felt so proud of myself for facing my fear. I want to continue to celebrate the small wins in my Academic career as that is what keeps me motivated!

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