Irene Reji was in tears when she found out she won a UFCW 1006A scholarship.
She immediately ran to her union steward at her Indigo store at Yorkdale Mall in Toronto, who hugged and congratulated her.
“I never expected to receive this scholarship, and it truly means a lot to me,” said Irene, who is currently studying Commerce and Accounting at York University. “Living on my own in Ontario while my family is in New Brunswick has been challenging with rent, bills, and groceries to manage. This scholarship will help ease that financial pressure as I continue my studies.”
Irene was among the 42 members and dependents of members who received a $1006 union educational scholarship this year.
Since the program’s inception in 2003, the local union has helped hundreds of students and families across Ontario deal with the high cost of post-secondary education.
Olivia MacRury, who has been a UFCW 1006A member since she was 16 years old, was thrilled to find out that she is a scholarship recipient. She is currently in her first year of the Nursing program at Western University.
“This scholarship means a great deal to me and I’m incredibly grateful for the support from my union both at work and in my studies,” said Olivia, who works at the Real Canadian Superstore in Milton. “The financial assistance will go a long way in helping me manage the rising costs of post-secondary education.”
President Wayne Hanley congratulated this year’s scholarship recipients.
“We are immensely proud to support our members and their dependents achieve their dream of post-secondary education,” said President Wayne Hanley. “Our scholarship program makes a tangible difference in the lives of our members and their families, and I am proud to congratulate all of our recipients this year.”
Jack Flegal, who is studying Nursing at St. Lawrence College, said the scholarship means so much to him as a nursing student.
“Receiving the scholarship helps ease the financial burden of my education so I can focus on learning the skills I need to provide compassionate care,” said Jack, who works at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Kingston. “This support motivates me to work hard and give back to my community, reflecting the values of fairness, equality, and justice that my union stands for."
Salam Azimi, who is studying Work and Labour Studies at McMaster University, was thankful to receive the scholarship.
“This scholarship means a lot to me since I come from a low-income household,” said Salam, who works at a No Frills store in Mississauga. “I will be using the money to help me pay off my tuition, which will take off a little bit of stress.”
Robin Varghese, who works for Commissionaires Great Lakes in the security sector, said the scholarship eases the financial burden.
“This scholarship motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my studies,” said Robin, who is studying Commerce at Fanshaw College. “I am deeply grateful to my union for supporting members and their families in achieving their educational goals.”
Kaleigh Gruchy, who is enrolled in a Bachelor of Education Program at Queen’s University, said she was honoured to be named a scholarship recipient.
“The scholarship helps me cover the cost of textbooks and supplies, allowing me to focus more on my studies and placements as I work toward a career in education,” said Kaleigh, who works at a No Frills store in Pickering. “This support inspires me to keep doing my best to make a positive difference in others’ lives.”
Simon Mebrahtu, who works at No Frills in Nepean and is studying Computer Engineering at Carleton University, said the scholarship means a lot to him on a personal level.
“I genuinely appreciate what my union does, which is not just supporting students like me but also pushing hard for fair treatment, equal chances, and access for every member in the workplace."
Alishba Imran, whose father works at Maple Grove Distribution Centre in Cambridge, said it was an honour to receive the UFCW 1006A scholarship. Alishba is studying Biomedical Science at the University of Guelph.
“This scholarship not only puts me one step closer to achieving my dream in the field of healthcare and medicine but makes me feel even more excited to see what the future holds."
UFCW 1006A thanks all those who applied. Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to apply again 2026 if they remain eligible. Applications for the 2026 school year are now open.
2025 Scholarship Recipients
Aaryan Mokashi
Ahmed Rfifi
Alexis O'Connor
Alishba Imran
Angela Valela
Ashley Carpenter
Brandon Callaway
Caleb Kam
Cole Vagueiro
Daniela McLaughlin
Donna Lloyd
Emerson Brough
Emilie Ruel
Eniola Siyanbola
Grace Hardy
Ilyssa Carvalho
Irine Reji
Isabella Keats
Jack Flegal
Jacob Medeiros
Jaimee Stewart
Jong-Woo Kim
Juliana Paul
Justin Wall
Kaleigh Gruchy
Kiranyaa Paranthaman
Marshall Kemp
Mateo Tamburrini
Mohammad Ali Kord Ali
Noelle Hatherall
Olivia MacRury
Pavleen Bhangu
Pneet Dulay
Precious Ekwunife
Robin Varghese
Roya Heidarnejad
Salam Azimi
Simon Mebrahtu
Tandeep Sadhra
Trevor Bowman
Viktoria Dermendzhiyska
Xiangning Jin
