Two northern students are among the 36 across the country who will be receiving the 2024 Loran Scholarship.
Over 5,000 Canadian students applied for the scholarship, which is valued at $100,000. The Loran Scholars Foundation is a national organization that awards these scholarships for students in Canada who will soon be entering university. Loran states that they search for those who demonstrate exceptional strength of character, a deep commitment to service, and the potential to lead with integrity.
Their first Northern pick is Katie Yu, from the Inuksuk High School in Iqaluit, NU. Katie is the squadron commander with the Iqaluit Air Cadet Squadron. She has served her school by restarting the environmental club, as well as co-founding the year book club, and has participated as a member of the school choir and band.
Katie also volunteers with the Nunavut youth advisory committee on climate change. She has also participated in national public speaking competitions, and has worked as an intern at World Wildlife Fund Canada.
Loran’s second pick is Kira Young, from Lester B. Pearson United World College of the Pacific in Yellowknife. Kira has shown her passion for climate activism by writing various articles and letters, and leading presentations on wildfires and their effects on the NWT. Not only is she also the co-founder of her school’s running club and co-head of the debate club, but she also brought the 24-Hour Race to her school, which is a global event run by students that raises money to help fight back against human trafficking.
As with all recipients of the Loran Scholarship, Katie and Kira will both be receiving a four-year, comprehensive leadership-enrichment program, financial support, and a network of values-driven peers and mentors.