News
Karnik Family Scholarship
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
PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION TO:
Scholarship Committee via email: scholarships@ciwa.org
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
September 18, 2026 (Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.)
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