Three scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded to CIWA clients or volunteers who are pursuing their education or career goals in Calgary.
Padmaja (Pam) and Umesh Karnik came to Canada from India in 1983/81. They pursued education in the fields of Finance/Marketing and Engineering, respectively, and recently retired after long, successful careers with TELUS and NOVA Chemicals. Pam has served as a volunteer on the Boards of TELUS Calgary Community Board, Women in Communications & Technology and the Calgary Police Commission. Umesh is a volunteer on the Board of Green Centre Canada. Their passion for the education of immigrant women in Calgary has inspired their philanthropic engagement through this scholarship.
Purpose of scholarship:
Three scholarships of $1500 each will be awarded to CIWA clients or volunteers who wish to pursue their educational or professional goals in Calgary at a recognized institution with the goal of being gainfully employed. Fees as well as incidentals such as childcare expenses would be eligible for reimbursement in pursuit of:
- Diploma or degree courses at a recognized institution
- Exams to recertify credentials in Canada
- Costs to upgrade qualifications or to re-train for a new career
WHO can apply:
- CIWA client or volunteer (past or present) 18+ years of age
- Lived in Canada for less than 5 years
- Demonstrates a financial need
- Has not received another CIWA scholarship in the past
HOW to apply:
- Complete and sign the Application Form
- Include a curriculum vitae or resume
- Submit a letter of reference, if shortlisted and upon request
Scholarship conditions:
- Scholarship will be presented at an award ceremony
- Candidate must be present at the event to receive the award
- CIWA will need a confirmation of enrollment and original receipts to award the scholarship
- All scholarship funds must be used within 12 months of receiving it
Submit your application to:
Scholarship Committee via email: scholarships@ciwa.org
Application deadline:
September 18, 2026 (Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.)