Helen Bassett Commemorative Scholarships

Every year, NWAC Youth Department and the Youth Council coordinate the Helen Bassett youth scholarships awarded to four young Aboriginal women in the amount of $1,000 each. The scholarships are coordinated as part of the Youth Intervenor program and are made possible by the generous donation of Helen Bassett.

We presently offer scholarships only to youth under the age of 31 as one of the Youth Council projects. NWAC recognizes the need for scholarships for women over 31 and is trying to acquire additional resources to expand our scholarships program in the future.

More information about the 2009/10 scholarships will be available in Spring 2009

Eligibility Criteria

• You must be pursuing post-secondary studies
• You must be under 31 years of age
• You must demonstrate financial need
• You must demonstrate commitment to improving the situation of Aboriginal women and youth in Canada politically, culturally, economically or otherwise
• Former Youth Council members are not eligible to apply

Documentation Required for Applying

• Application Form
• Proof of age
• Proof of Aboriginal descent
• Proof of attending post-secondary studies: acceptance letter from a post-secondary institution
• Most recent official transcript (photocopies will be accepted)
• Proof of community involvement/interest and dedication in working on aboriginal women’s issues: one reference letter of support from a local community organization, or school, or any relevant organization/person
• Short essay of 1-2 pages stating the following:
  • Goals following the completion of your studies
  • Brief description of how you intend to contribute to either the socio-economic, legal, or cultural well-being of Aboriginal women
  • Have you been active in a Local, Provincial or Territorial Native Women’s Association affiliated with NWAC? If so, how?
  • What other relevant courses or studies have you participated in?
• Statement of financial need in a letter, plus monthly or yearly budget and a list of other funding sources and scholarships

For more information please contact Community Development Coordinator - Youth, Carey Calder, at 613.722.3033 ext. 230 or toll free at 1.800.461.4043.

List of winners 2008/2009

Helen Bassett Biography 

Aboriginal Youth Scholarships

List of other scholarships, awards and bursaries available