Get ready for ApplyBoard’s second annual International Alumni of Impact (IAOI) program! Nominations for 2024 are open until May 19, which means that you, or someone you know, could be one of this year’s award winners. Before diving into what the nomination process looks like, we’ll go over what the program is, meet some of our past award winners, share nomination eligibility criteria, and more.
Find out more about IAOI on the program website!
What is International Alumni of Impact (IAOI)?
IAOI is our way of honouring international students who have graduated from Canadian postsecondary institutions and have since made a positive impact. These individuals excelled in their respective fields, demonstrating resilience, innovation, leadership, and generosity in their communities and beyond.
Up to ten 2024 International Alumni of Impact winners will be selected. Each award winner will be celebrated through various channels, including press releases, social media, and videos. Additionally, a one-time scholarship will be created in each winner’s name to support an incoming international student at the same institution the award winner graduated from.
Highlights from Last Year
Before we delve into this year’s nomination process, let’s celebrate some of the incredible individuals from the 2023 International Alumni of Impact cohort:
Anjo Colago
Anjo Colago, a Filipino international student, graduated from Coast Mountain College (CMC) in 2021 with a Business diploma. Then, Anjo then served as CMC’s campus housing coordinator, promoting diversity and creating inclusive spaces. Currently, he works in food services and volunteers to combat food insecurity. Anjo’s inspiring impact is felt both at CMC and in his community.
Christine Qin Yang
Christine Qin Yang, from Fujian, China, studied Business Administration at Mount Saint Vincent University and Dalhousie University. During COVID-19, she fought against Asian hate crimes, advocating for broader recognition of Asian communities in Nova Scotia, and support of Asian Heritage Month. Christine continues to support international students and newcomers, and her inspiring contributions leave a lasting mark.
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji
Iyinoluwa, from Lagos, Nigeria, studied at the University of Waterloo while engaging in startup initiatives like Velocity Garage. He co-founded Andela and Flutterwave, both successful ventures in tech and finance. His latest project, Future Africa, aims to support companies that address pressing challenges across Africa. Recognized as a top influencer, he’s been included on the New African’s list of the Top 100 Most Influential Africans and Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, showcasing how studying abroad can foster entrepreneurship and leadership.
Walter Alvarez
Walter, a refugee from Guatemala, overcame dyslexia, adult ADHD, and the trauma of war to pursue education in Canada. He studied at Athabasca University and later earned his master’s degree from Cape Breton University, graduating as salutatorian. Walter is now a PhD candidate at Royal Roads University, where he researches humanitarian innovation, advocates for healthcare access, and has become an inspiring, in-demand public speaker.
What Makes Someone Eligible?
If you or someone you know seems like a good fit for IAOI, we want to hear from you! We are looking for nominees who embody one or more of our four program pillars:
Resilience: Stories of triumph over adversity, showcasing strength of character and adaptability.
Innovation: Bold and creative thinkers who are shaping the future with their originality and curiosity.
Leadership: Visionaries who have taken ownership and initiative, driving meaningful change in their communities.
Generosity: Individuals whose dedication to helping others and giving back is truly inspiring.
To be eligible, nominees must:
- Have graduated from any Canadian higher education institution between 2003 and 2023
- Not be a current ApplyBoard employee or their immediate family member
- Not be a current partner or contractor of ApplyBoard, including recruitment partners or agents
How to Submit a Nomination
Submitting a nomination is easy! Whether you’re nominating yourself or someone else, simply fill out the nomination form on the official IAOI website. There’s no limit on third-party submissions, and we’ll work with you to obtain the nominee’s consent to participate.
Nominations are open now and will close on May 19, 2024. Winners will be announced later this summer. Nominees are evaluated based on their lifetime achievements and contributions, with a focus on the four program pillars: resilience, innovation, leadership, and generosity.
Take Action
Do you know someone with a story that deserves to be shared? Nominate them today and help us celebrate their impact on the world. Together, we can inspire the next generation of international leaders and change-makers.
Remember, nominations are open until May 19, so don’t wait! Visit our website to submit your nominations and be part of this incredible journey.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the power of education and the extraordinary individuals who are making a difference around the globe. We can’t wait to see who will be honoured as the 2024 International Alumni of Impact!
Submit your nomination now. For more information about the program, visit our website.
