ISANS Celebrates First Recipients of the ISANS Newcomer Scholarship

The Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) is proud to announce the first recipients of the ISANS Newcomer Scholarship, a new initiative funded through the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia (CFNS). Seven newcomer students have been selected to receive scholarships in recognition of their dedication to education, their perseverance in overcoming barriers, and their commitment to building their futures in Nova Scotia

As the inaugural year of the scholarship program, this milestone represents an important investment in newcomer success. The ISANS Newcomer Scholarship was created to help reduce financial barriers to post-secondary education and support newcomers as they pursue academic and career aspirations across a variety of fields, including nursing, engineering, carpentry, commerce, and early childhood education.

Scholarship recipients were selected through an anonymous review process conducted by the ISANS Immigrant Advisory Committee, ensuring a fair and equitable assessment of all applications.

“Education opens doors to opportunity, builds confidence, and strengthens communities,” said Paula Knight, CEO of ISANS. “We are proud to celebrate the first recipients of the ISANS Newcomer Scholarship and invest in the incredible potential of newcomers who are building their futures here in Nova Scotia. These students have demonstrated determination, resilience, and a commitment to achieving their goals. We hope this scholarship helps remove barriers to education and empowers them to pursue their aspirations, contribute their talents, and create lasting positive impact in our communities.”

The scholarship program is funded through the New Canadian Education Fund at the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia, whose partnership has helped make this opportunity possible for newcomer students.

“Community foundations have an important role to play in bringing people together around a shared vision for stronger communities,” says Community Foundation of Nova Scotia CEO, Daniel Holland. “We have the privilege of connecting CFNS Fundholders who want to make a difference with organizations like ISANS that are doing important work across our province. This scholarship is a great example of what can happen when those connections come together, creating meaningful opportunities for newcomer students and helping them build their futures in Nova Scotia.”

Among the inaugural recipients is Martin Lokujo, a 23-year-old student entering his second year of Carpentry at NSCC Ivany Campus. As a refugee, Martin balances his studies while supporting his family, helping his parents navigate communication barriers and contributing to household expenses. Despite these responsibilities, he remains focused on building a successful career in the skilled trades.

“Receiving the ISANS Newcomer Scholarship meant a lot to me. It gave me encouragement and financial support to continue my carpentry studies at NSCC. As a newcomer, having this support helped reduce some of the financial pressure and allowed me to focus more on my education, develop my skills, and work toward building a successful career in the skilled trades,” said Martin Lokujo.

The seven recipients were recognized during a special scholarship celebration hosted by ISANS, bringing together students, supporters, donors, family members, and community partners to recognize their achievements and aspirations.

The ISANS Newcomer Scholarship reflects ISANS’ belief that when newcomers are supported in pursuing their goals, communities grow stronger. By investing in education today, the scholarship is helping create opportunities for the next generation of leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled tradespeople who will contribute to Nova Scotia’s future.