During a period marked by wildfires and resulting evacuations, Diamonds Do Good, alongside the Mine Training Society, announced scholarships for five students from Canada’s Northwest Territories (NWT) for the year 2023.
The students, displaced due to wildfires, were residing in other parts of Canada when they received the scholarship notifications.
Program Background
Initiated in 2018, the scholarship program is a collaborative effort between Diamonds Do Good and the Mine Training Society. The program aims to support youth from the diamond mining regions of NWT in their educational endeavors.
It provides assistance for trades training or post-secondary education in fields like business, management, STEM, healthcare, and mental health.
The broader objective of this initiative is to create a positive impact in natural diamond mining communities, with a focus on education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.
Profiles of Recipients
The scholarships, each valued at $5,000, have been granted to five individuals with varying academic and professional goals, illustrating the wide range of support the program extends.
The recipients include:
- Monique Chapman, who is pursuing a master’s degree in science communication and public engagement to foster communication between scientific communities and Indigenous groups.
- Max Dragon, a Smith’s Landing First Nation member, working towards nurturing local entrepreneurship through his commerce studies.
- Christopher Mathison, aiming to combine engineering, biology, and medicine to enhance healthcare in NWT.
- Johanna Stewart, engaged in climate change and wildlife projects to promote sustainable resource use in NWT.
- Hayley Tait, focusing on Indigenous People’s Health through her public health master’s degree, addressing the need for qualified public health professionals in the region.
Anticipated Impact
Historically, the Diamonds Do Good scholarships have positively impacted recipients by enabling them to continue their education, who in turn, contribute back to the Northwest Territories.
The scholarships aim to support youth in pursuing education and training that align with community needs and sustainable practices, thereby contributing to broader socio-economic development in the NWT region.
As a notable producer of natural diamonds, such initiatives in Canada highlight the diamond industry’s efforts to support local communities around the mining areas.