Congratulations to Autism Ontario Scholarship Recipients!

Graduates Celebrating in Gym
Autism Ontario

Each year Autism Ontario awards scholarships to outstanding students entering their first year of a post-secondary program across the province. Autism Ontario scholarships help to fund opportunities for autistic students to attend their first year of college or university. 

We extend our best wishes to all students entering their first year of a post-secondary program this month.

Congratulations to all the winners of this year's Autism Ontario scholarships! 

Please note: We publish scholarship winners' names only once we have their express consent. 

•    Reweena Debebe
•    Sophie Kozachanko
•    Ethan Jean-Baptiste
•    Evan Stadler
•    Olivia Cann
•    Sarah Wight
•    Samantha Moore
•    Kaleigh Swain
•    Daanish Khan
•    Joshua Dargie
•    Grace Sweetman
•    Ethan Prendergast
•    Dolly Zou
•    Alissa Castano

Read about the impact of these scholarships from the recipients in their own words. 

Olivia Cann wearing a graduation cap and gown
Olivia Cann

"I'd like to thank Autism Ontario for their support, I'm truly honoured to be among the winners. Throughout my elementary and secondary school journey, I've personally experienced the barriers autistic people face in a neurotypical world. To be different brings challenges and social stigma. Yet, with proper accommodations and support, autistic people such as myself also have the incredible capacity to succeed, if simply given the chance. This award is a motivator to keep believing in my abilities and future."

Ethan Jean-Baptiste wearing a graduation gown and holding a diploma

Ethan Jean-Baptiste

"Thank you. I am very happy and appreciative to learn that I have been selected for your scholarship. It has not been an easy road for me, and I am still navigating through it, but it is truly an honour to see my hard work paying off. I am autistic, but it does not define me. I am so much more than my diagnosis. I am a bright young man, ambitious, persistent, and strong. I have dreams and aspirations like everybody else, and now, I am following the path to my future."

Reweena Debebe wearing a graduation cap and gown

Reweena Debebe

"I am beyond grateful to be on the receiving end of this scholarship and will continue to insert myself into communities that need more support and guidance. I can't and will never forget my biggest inspiration: my beautiful sister, who has defied all odds and is constantly pushing herself and others to be the best they can be despite any obstacles. Thank you, Autism Ontario, for this opportunity; I can't wait to give back in the future!"

Joshua Dargie wearing a graduation gown

Joshua Dargie

"I am so grateful that I have been awarded the Eleanor Ritchie Scholarship. It is an amazing opportunity that will assist me to achieve my goals and successfully complete my post-secondary education. Having autism is a critical part of my life and has allowed me to view the world differently. I am immensely grateful that I have been recognized and am receiving the Eleanor Ritchie Scholarship."

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Learn more about Autism Ontario's scholarships.

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