IAOI - 2023 Winners Announced

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2023 Winners

Discover the extraordinary winners of the 2023 International Alumni of Impact program! These former international students have demonstrated generosity, leadership, resilience, and innovation, leading them to make significant contributions to their communities. Through acts of service, development of innovative solutions, and establishment of new companies, they’ve made a lasting impact beyond borders.

Meet Our Winners

Click on the tiles below to learn more about each of our winners.

Anjo Colago

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Anjo Colago has left an ever-lasting mark on both his local community and Coast Mountain College in Terrace, British Columbia. Born in the Philippines, Anjo ventured to Canada in 2019 as an international student, embarking on a journey that would shape his future and the lives of those around him.

At Coast Mountain College, Anjo pursued his postgraduate studies and earned a post-degree diploma in business, graduating in April 2021. As one of the first international students from the Philippines at the college, Anjo turned this opportunity into a positive one by finding a community and making it his own. He wholeheartedly embraced this role, sharing his challenges, resilience, and experiences as an international student with his peers as a volunteer in the Student Ambassador Program.

Post-graduation, Anjo's commitment to fostering inclusivity and supporting others led him to become a member of the local Filipino Community Association in Terrace. This affiliation enabled him to connect with more international students and extend a helping hand to those on similar journeys.

Currently, Anjo serves as the Campus Housing Coordinator at Coast Mountain College, dedicating himself to supporting students on campus. In this role, he plays a pivotal part in ensuring all students feel included and valued within the college community. Anjo's passion for cultural understanding shines through in his role managing a fully indigenized student accommodation, where he bridges gaps between different cultures.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Anjo actively uses his extensive network to assist with opportunities for international and indigenous students. Recognizing the importance of giving back, he volunteers with a local food bank and is actively working on finding solutions to alleviate British Columbia's food insecurity problem.

Anjo's impact extends even further through his initiatives on campus. His commitment to diversity and inclusivity inspired him in his creation of a Gender-Fluid Room, where gender diversity is celebrated, and safety and well-being is prioritized. Additionally, Anjo is leading the establishment of a rainbow crosswalk and an orange crosswalk in support of the Every Child Matters initiative, further demonstrating his dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Anjo Colago's deep appreciation of intercultural competence, coupled with his commitment to internationalization and indigenization, has made a strong impact on Coast Mountain College's student life and campus community. His genuine care for others, resilience, and passion for social change serve as an inspiration to all.

Asif Hossain

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Asif Hossain is a remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to making a positive difference in society. Originally from Bangladesh, Asif moved to Canada as an international student with a desire to contribute to the betterment of humanity.

As a young boy growing up in Bangladesh, Asif had a passion and drive to serve and protect people, aspiring to be part of a profession that upholds justice. To pursue his passion for policing, he enrolled in the Bachelor of Law Enforcement Studies program at the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC), in Canada. Asif graduated as one of the top students in his class, giving him the opportunity to further his education at the University of Cambridge, where he was awarded a full scholarship to conduct research on policing at the master's level.

Upon his return to Canada, Asif began sharing his knowledge and passion for policing as an instructor at various colleges in the Greater Vancouver area. His dedication led to him becoming a lecturer at JIBC in 2021 and Acting Program Manager in its Justice & Public Safety Division. He also taught criminology courses at Douglas College and Columbia College, using his knowledge to further educate aspiring criminal justice professionals.

During school, Asif volunteered extensively with the Vancouver Police Department, assisting with crime prevention initiatives, community events, and conducting foot patrols. He is now a Special Constable with the Vancouver Police Department, where he uses his expertise to serve his community with empathy and compassion. Asif's hands-on approach to learning has also led him to visit individuals living on the streets in the impoverished Downtown Eastside of Vancouver, allowing him to gain firsthand insight into their experiences.

Outside of his law enforcement endeavors, Asif is deeply committed to improving the lives of underprivileged and orphaned children in Bangladesh. He supports this by playing an active role in fundraising as the Vice-President of an orphanage in the small village of Maria. Recently, Asif and his team launched a campaign focused on promoting girls' education in the Natore region of Bangladesh.

Asif Hossain's remarkable achievements and contributions to society exemplify his leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Whether it’s through educating the next generation of criminal justice professionals, serving as a Special Constable, or improving the lives of underprivileged children in his home country, Asif's relentless dedication and passion are making a difference around the world.

Chetanya Sharma

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Hailing from Ambala, India, Chetanya Sharma embarked on a transformative study abroad journey, at the University of Ottawa in Ontario. At uOttawa, Chetanya showed exceptional dedication to his studies, earning a Bachelor's of Commerce degree in Finance in 2021.

During his time at the University of Ottawa, Chetanya was dedicated to his professional growth, participating in his program’s co-op program and completing various work stints with public sector organizations in Ottawa. He gained invaluable experience through placements at Service Canada, Shared Services Canada, and Employment and Social Development Canada.

He also founded 'The South Asian Cultural Society,' a vibrant club that seamlessly merged South Asian culture with the North American community. The club organized culturally enriching events, like the Festival of Lights, fostering diversity and cross-cultural connections.

Chetanya's leadership qualities and dedication to the international student community were recognized when he was elected as the President of the uOttawa International Student Association in his final year. His commitment to supporting and guiding fellow international students was further exemplified in his role as an international mentor during his academic journey.

Inspired by his own journey and the challenges faced by countless international students, Chetanya used these experiences to come up with a positive resource for others by creating the organization, 'My Personal Mentor.' His organization has become a beacon of hope for immigrants looking for in-depth employment prospects in North America.

My Personal Mentor has received widespread recognition and support, with its social media presence growing to an impressive 115,000 followers. Chetanya and his team have positively impacted the lives of hundreds of international students and immigrants by providing them with invaluable guidance and assistance in securing high-quality job opportunities.

Driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to exceptional mentorship, My Personal Mentor aims to facilitate a seamless transition for immigrants. Chetanya generously shares his expertise, personal experiences, and valuable insights to empower individuals in their job application process. Notably, his weekly free job consulting and resume-building webinars attract over 700 attendees.

Six months ago, Chetanya partnered with local incubator Invest Ottawa, to take My Personal Mentor to the next level. Through this collaboration, he continues to revolutionize the way international students and immigrants navigate the Canadian job market, empowering them to achieve their full potential. Alongside his business, Chetanya currently serves as a Human Resources Admin Officer for the Government of Canada, within the Department of National Defence.

Chetanya Sharma's academic achievements, remarkable leadership, and unwavering commitment to the success of international students and immigrants demonstrate his exceptional character and dedication.

Christine Qin Yang

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Christine Qin Yang embodies the transformative power of education, resilience, and advocacy. She embarked on a remarkable journey from China to the community she now calls home: Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Christine's pursuit of knowledge led her to Mount Saint Vincent University, where she enrolled in the Business Administration program. She graduated with a Bachelor's degree in 2014, equipped with the tools to make a significant impact in the world. Her commitment led her to continue her higher education journey, graduating from Dalhousie University’s Public Administration Graduate program in 2023.

Driven by her unwavering passion for social justice, Christine has dedicated herself to empowering Asian immigrants and international students. By serving on the boards of various organizations, she has consistently championed the rights and well-being of these communities, ensuring their concerns are heard.

Among her numerous accomplishments, one stands out prominently—her relentless battle against Asian hate crimes. Through her tireless efforts, Christine successfully advocated for the provincial government of Nova Scotia to proclaim May as Asian Heritage Month, since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This significant step symbolizes the recognition of the contributions made by Asian immigrants to local communities, Nova Scotia, and Canada as a whole.

Christine's personal journey serves as an inspiration to all. From her humble beginnings as a struggling international student working at McDonald's, she has transformed her own life and the lives of those around her. Her commitment to empowering others speaks volumes about her character and integrity.

She has served as a board member for Mount Saint Vincent University, the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), and the Canadian International Council. Through these engagements, Christine has contributed her expertise and insights to foster collaboration and encourage positive change.

Still in Halifax, Christine is now the Manager, Market Development, within the Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, where she leads projects to strengthen the province's market presence globally. Her role in the provincial government exemplifies her commitment to creating change for the greater good.

Christine continues to use her experience to assist international students, recent graduates, and immigrants in finding meaningful careers and building connections in Halifax. Her involvement in the Halifax Partnership Connector program facilitated positive opportunities and fostered integration. Additionally, she has selflessly mentored international students through EduNova's Study and Stay program, offering guidance and support as they navigate their educational and professional journeys.

Christine Yang's story is a testament to the transformative power of education, resilience, and advocacy. Her unwavering commitment to empowering voiceless communities, particularly Asian immigrants and international students, has left an unforgettable impact on Halifax, Nova Scotia and the rest of the world.

Gurpreet Singh Broca

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Gurpreet Singh Broca is a remarkable individual who left a lasting legacy on the Sudbury community in Canada and beyond. His journey from India to Canada as an international student has been nothing short of inspirational, and his unwavering dedication has made a significant difference in the lives of those around him.

When Gurpreet arrived at Sudbury, Ontario’s Cambrian College in 2015, he faced numerous challenges that are all too familiar to international students. Overcoming language barriers and cultural differences, he also struggled with feelings of loneliness and isolation in a smaller community, further from diverse metropolitan cities, where South Asians accounted for less than 2% of the population. In the face of adversity, Gurpreet chose to remain in Greater Sudbury, driven by his belief that true integration and appreciation for cultural diversity can be achieved through active community engagement.

During his time at Cambrian, he served as an International Volunteer with the college's International Team. After graduating, he established the Sarbat Da Bhala Bursary, an annual scholarship at Cambrian for second-year international students, embodying the spirit of "prosperity for all." Handpicking recipients, Gurpreet personally meets with them to offer encouragement and support, while also identifying opportunities for community engagement that can lead to future employment prospects.

Gurpreet's commitment to fostering inclusion and diversity also led him to important leadership and volunteer roles within the Greater Sudbury community. As a former member of the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario's Youth Advisory Committee Board, Gurpreet played an important role in improving services and programs for immigrant populations, striving to meet their unique needs effectively. Additionally, Gurpreet founded the Sudbury Bhangra Club, which allows him to share his love for traditional Punjabi dance with the community.

Currently serving as the Vice Chair of the Greater Sudbury Police Services Chief's Diversity Advisory Committee, Gurpreet provides invaluable advice and guidance on matters related to multicultural concerns within the city's policing. Furthermore, he is a director with the India Canada Association of Sudbury, which promotes Indian culture and heritage through a range of educational workshops, cultural celebrations, and public activities.

Gurpreet's selfless dedication to the community has not gone unnoticed. He has been the recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Sudbury Community Volunteer Excellence Award and the Greater Sudbury Police Service Community Volunteer Excellence Award. Most notably, in 2023, Gurpreet was bestowed with the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Award from the Government of Canada, a testament to his outstanding volunteerism and unwavering commitment to inspiring excellence in the Sudbury community.

Whether organizing fundraising galas, leading public space cleanup events, or participating in cultural celebrations and lectures, Gurpreet maintains a constant presence, exuding energy, warmth, and a genuine desire to support others.

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

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Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, came from Lagos, Nigeria, and his journey began as an international student in Canada. Today, his accomplishments in the fields of entrepreneurship and technology earned him the well-deserved International Alumni of Impact Award.

Iyinoluwa studied Legal Studies at the University of Waterloo, and actively participated in the thriving Kitchener-Waterloo startup ecosystem. It was there where he participated in the University’s Velocity Garage, a renowned hub for entrepreneurial endeavors. From his experiences in the Velocity Garage, Iyinoluwa developed his entrepreneurial skills and fostered a deep appreciation for the power of innovation and collaboration.

Graduating from the University of Waterloo in 2012, Iyinoluwa's transformative experience as an international student laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey. Inspired by his time in Canada, he dedicated his efforts to building and supporting innovators in his home country of Nigeria.

Iyinoluwa co-founded several groundbreaking ventures that have revolutionized the African business landscape. He became the Co-Founder of Andela, a global job placement network for software developers, which has provided opportunities for African talent to thrive on the global stage. Additionally, he co-founded Flutterwave, a Nigerian fintech company which empowers Pan-African merchants to expand their businesses globally.

Recognizing the potential and talent present in Africa, Iyinoluwa then served as a General Partner and Co-Founder of Future Africa. This team of investors is dedicated to supporting and empowering leaders who are addressing Africa's most pressing challenges through sustainable businesses. Through Future Africa, Iyinoluwa ensures that mission-driven innovators have access to resources that foster growth and collaboration.

His remarkable achievements have garnered international recognition. In 2019, New African magazine acknowledged Iyinoluwa as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Africans, highlighting his impact on the continent. Furthermore, Forbes Magazine recognized his extraordinary contributions by naming him to the Forbes 30 Under 30 - Enterprise Technology list in 2018.

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji's journey shows the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the importance of giving back. Through his commitment to empowering innovators and addressing Africa's challenges, he has become an icon of inspiration and a true ambassador for change. As he continues to reshape the African business landscape, his passion, leadership, and generosity serve as inspiration for future generations of entrepreneurs striving to make a long-lasting impact.

Kajol Bhatia

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Kajol Bhatia is a remarkable individual, supporting and implementing inclusivity and cultural celebration. Originally an Indian resident of the United Arab Emirates, Kajol came to Canada as an international student to study at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) in Calgary.

During her time at SAIT, she exhibited exceptional dedication and commitment, achieving a remarkable 4.0 GPA. Despite juggling two part-time jobs, Kajol also engaged in volunteer work at her institution, becoming a guiding light of inspiration for other international students who navigated similar journeys.

Motivated by her passion for storytelling and a desire to provide a platform for diverse stories, Kajol focused her journalism work on giving a voice to those whose stories often went unheard. She recognized the power of diversity and cultural exchange and dedicated herself to promoting these values within the SAIT community.

As the VP of Events and a founding member of the South Asians Students' Society (SASS), Kajol initiated SAIT's inaugural Diwali & Eid celebrations in 2018, fostering collaboration between the SAIT International Centre and SASS. She also coordinated and choreographed cultural fashion shows to encourage international students to showcase their traditional outfits and educate others about their cultural backgrounds.

Throughout her academic journey, Kajol received numerous accolades for her exceptional writing and journalism skills, and graduated from SAIT with a diploma in Journalism in 2020. Her expertise helped get her to her recent role as a Marketing and Communications Specialist, where she creates inclusive campaigns and supports professional relationships between Canada and other countries like Germany, the United States, and India.

Recognizing the importance of supporting the growth of international students, Kajol currently contributes to the SAIT Student Mentorship Program, providing guidance and mentorship to students. She has also held a position as a Recruitment Assistant with SAIT’s International Centre. Her impact has been widely acknowledged, as she was invited as a guest speaker for SAIT's inaugural Permanent Resident Celebration. Her relatable experiences as a “third culture kid” received praise from Calgary’s Mayor Jyoti Gondek at the event.

As a panelist at the Canadian Bureau of International Education (CBIE) Western Regional Conference in 2021, she advocated for "inclusive internationalization" among top professionals in the higher education industry, bringing clarity to the challenges faced by international students. Her influential presentation led to her nomination by SAIT and CBIE to the Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Youth Advisory Group.

Kajol Bhatia's tireless efforts, exceptional achievements, and commitment to promoting multiculturalism and inclusivity make her a deserving recipient of the International Alumni of Impact Award. Her dedication to empowering international students and immigrants is an inspiration, and her contributions have left a permanent mark on the SAIT community and beyond.

Ramneet Brar

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Ramneet Brar, an accomplished entrepreneur from India, went on a transformative journey to Canada to pursue her dreams of higher education. She chose George Brown College in Toronto, Ontario, graduating in 2017 from the Business Administration Accounting program.

With an eye for detail and a passion for accounting, Ramneet started her accounting career as a Tax Consultant with KPMG. Working with their high net-worth private clients and cross-border tax group, she gained invaluable experience and expertise, which she later turned into an innovative business that would revolutionize the lives of international students.

Driven by her own experiences and fueled by a desire to create meaningful change, Ramneet co-founded Isempower, an Ed-Tech startup that is a career launchpad for international students. The platform helps higher education institutions provide personalized career support, resources and job opportunities from Isempower partner employers to their international students. As the COO, she has played an important role in developing Isempower into a leading technology that helps international students thrive in Canada.

By creating strategic partnerships, providing personalized resources, and a network with dedicated mentors, Ramneet's startup has empowered countless students to build successful careers in Canada. The impact of Isempower goes beyond jobs; it is disrupting the entire ecosystem and redefining how international students receive support.

Through her work at Isempower, Ramneet facilitated over 600 job placements, cultivated a network of 50,000 students, partnered with 25+ higher education institutions and fostered collaborations with over 100 employers across Canada, including Telus, BC Hydro, RBC, and more. Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed, as she was honored with the prestigious Top 10 Women Leaders in Canada award by Women Entrepreneur India.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ramneet is an passionate public speaker, speaking about not-for-profit initiatives that aim to resolve the exploitation of international students, and to correct issues of low wages and long work hours.

Ramneet Brar is an exemplar of perseverance, innovation, and compassion. Her trailblazing efforts at Isempower and commitment to international student success have positively contributed to Canada's professional landscape. As she continues to shape the future for international students and stand for their rights, Ramneet's unwavering dedication serves as a beacon for hope.

Walter Alvarez-Bardales

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Walter Alvarez-Bardales is an extraordinary individual who has made a remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of inspiration and hope. With an unyielding determination and a strong commitment to making a difference, Walter has consistently pushed the boundaries of his own potential to achieve remarkable accomplishments in the field of academia, community service, and leadership.

Despite the challenges he faced growing up in a low-income family during a time of war in Guatemala, Walter's resilience and his family's encouragement helped him move forward. Tragically, Walter experienced personal loss when his father was kidnapped and his brother was killed, leading him to leave his homeland to find safety.

Although Walter endured extreme hardships, including a period of homelessness, his spirit remained unbroken. Walter arrived in Canada as a refugee, determined to create a new path and to pursue his education at Athabasca University. His drive and commitment to academic excellence led him to graduate, and continue his study journey by studying and graduating with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Cape Breton University in 2020. Upon graduating, he earned the title of the class salutatorian, as well as an MBA Entrance Scholarship for his outstanding academic accomplishments.

Currently a Ph.D. student in Social Sciences at Royal Roads University, Walter continues to set himself apart as a trailblazer and scholar. He was awarded the Doctoral Entrance Scholarship and the prestigious Provincial BC Graduate Scholarship. Walter volunteers andactively contributes to "The Meaning of Humanitarian Innovation," an international academic project sponsored by the U.K. government. Through this project, Walter amplifies the voices of Guatemalan innovators in impoverished areas, introducing their innovations such as the eco-brick, to a wider international audience.

Walter's leadership and advocacy extend beyond academia. In 2019, he played an important role in organizing the Cape Breton University team representing Canada at the U.N. Model in Washington, D.C. Then, at the International Ed Talks, Walter faced his fear of public speaking, and fearlessly took the stage to share his profound story, inspiring his fellow students to share their own stories.

Walter actively engages in volunteerism, dedicating his time to help individuals without health insurance and advocating for people with disabilities. His commitment to public service led to his 2022 nomination as an MPP for York-Simcoe, where he finished in second place.

Walter Alvarez-Bardales is a shining example of resilience, determination, and advocacy. His unwavering search for knowledge, commitment to community service, and dedication to empowering others have made a profound impact on the lives of those he encounters.

Woohyung (Roy) Cho

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Nominations Open Until May 19

Do you know a former international student who has gone on to make a tremendous impact within their community or profession? Nominate them for IAOI!

2023 International Alumni of Impact Scholarships

To celebrate our winners’ exceptional contributions, ApplyBoard is creating one-time C$1,000 scholarships in each winner’s name, at the institution they graduated from.

In November of 2023, these scholarships will be awarded to deserving incoming international students who secured their acceptance to one of these institutions through ApplyBoard. These scholarships aim to support the next generation of international leaders, allowing them to pursue their dreams and positively impact their communities.

2023 Winners

Meet Our Winners

Anjo Colago

Asif Hossain

Chetanya Sharma

Christine Qin Yang

Gurpreet Singh Broca

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

Kajol Bhatia

Ramneet Brar

Walter Alvarez-Bardales

Woohyung (Roy) Cho

Nominations Open Until May 19

2023 International Alumni of Impact Scholarships

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