Bianca Zussino has received a McCall MacBain Regional Award—joining a select group of high-achieving university students from across the country.

"This honour shows me that anyone can be a leader if you do something you're passionate about," she says.

This year, Bianca ranked among the top 90 of more than 700 Canadian applicants for the McCall MacBain Regional Award. "I hope to further explore the intersection of clinical medicine, research, and patient-centred care," she says.

The award recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.

Bianca is in her fourth year of Lakehead's Honours Bachelor of Science program, where she majors in biology and neuroscience. Her goal is to become a doctor.

She's thrilled to have won the $5,000 award and will use it to help fund her graduate studies. Bianca is particularly interested in gastroenterology, which treats conditions of the stomach, intestines, and esophagus.

She was drawn to this field by a healthcare crisis she faced.

A Life Turned Upside Down

"When I was in grade 9, with no warning, I began experiencing extreme nausea and vomiting," Bianca says.

Doctors were baffled by her condition and a proper diagnosis was hampered by the lack of specialists in Thunder Bay.

"I never thought of myself as a leader as a kid," Bianca says. "I wasn't very outgoing, but the more I began volunteering in the community, the more confident I became." Left, Bianca helps prepare a meal at the Dew Drop Inn soup kitchen.

The next four years were a nightmare for Bianca. She was in and out of hospital, suffering from medical crises.

At one point, she was airlifted to a London hospital where she had a catheter inserted into a vein near her heart to get enough nutrition into her body.

Eventually, it was discovered that Bianca's stomach wasn't emptying properly. Only surgery in the United States helped alleviate her condition.

"My parents and I had to do a lot of advocacy to get treatment," she says.

Reaching a Crossroads

After Bianca recovered from her illness, she made a resolution.

She would become a neurogastroenterology specialist and researcher based in Thunder Bay, so that other northwestern Ontarians wouldn't have to suffer the way she had.

Bianca started contacting medical institutions to see if she could join their research teams.

She's now been a neurogastroenterology research intern with Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital for two years.

Through her collaboration with Massachusetts General and Harvard, Bianca has written five research articles released in publications such as The American Journal of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

"Working with Harvard has been incredible," Bianca says.

"I spent the first eight weeks of my internship shadowing physicians at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. I was able to see how clinical decisions are made and observe endoscopic procedures."

She's also been busy conducting gut motility disorder research with the team in Boston, and some of her work has been published in medical research journals.

Back home, Bianca has been fostering healthcare research in northwestern Ontario.

She belongs to the Compass North Clinic—run by the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University and Lakehead students—and recently became their LU branch research lead.

Friend to the Young and the Elderly Alike

Bianca's contributions to her community go well beyond research.

She coordinates the Thunder Bay chapter of Let's Talk Science, which inspires youngsters to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Bianca manages a team of about 50 educators and volunteers as the Thunder Bay Let's Talk Science coordinator. "We send volunteers into local schools to give presentations and do fun STEM activities." Above, Bianca speaks to local elementary students.

As a patient family advisor at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, Bianca shares patient perspectives on health care and advocates for change. While at St. Joseph's Care Group, she volunteers with their Elder Life Program.

"When my great-grandmother was a patient at St. Joseph's, I saw people who didn't have many visitors, and it broke my heart," she says.

This spurred Bianca to begin visiting seniors every week to provide support.

"I've gained as much as I've given—I've had the privilege of learning about their lives and the challenges they've overcome."

Bianca's volunteer work with the Children's Aid Society, as both a math tutor and a baby cuddler, is also close to her heart.

"Most of the babies I cuddle are in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. They've been through a lot in their short lives, so it's wonderful to be able to comfort them."

Congratulations on your McCall MacBain Regional Award, Bianca! We're proud to have such an inspirational healthcare advocate in our community.

The McCall MacBain Scholarships are the result of a landmark $200 million gift in 2019, then the largest single donation in Canadian history, by John and Marcy McCall MacBain. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.

Thunder Bay and Orillia, Ont. - Lakehead University is expanding its footprint in downtown Barrie with the addition of 5 Ross Street as a second location for the Barrie STEM Hub, opening later this year.

Beginning in fall 2026, students will study for in-demand careers in engineering or computer science at the STEM Hub’s two locations downtown: 24 Maple Avenue and 5 Ross Street.

“This marks another incredible milestone for Lakehead University, as we continue to establish our university presence in Barrie,” said Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice-Chancellor. “With the support of Mayor Alex Nuttall and the City of Barrie, we are building a modern, purpose-built environment for our students that is perfectly designed for hands-on learning and applied research.”

The new location at 5 Ross Street will support flexible classrooms and active learning spaces, student services and social spaces, as well as graduate student offices. The first floor at 24 Maple Avenue will house specialized research and teaching laboratories, including multiple advanced labs focused on Motors and Robotics, Machines, Instrumentation, and Mechatronics.

“We are providing high-quality classrooms, high-tech labs, student services spaces, and social areas that our students deserve, right from the start,” she said, noting the finalized academic plan for the Barrie STEM Hub includes 27,200 sq. ft. of teaching, learning and research space.

As one of the fastest growing municipalities in Ontario and one of the few among the 25 urban growth centres in the Greater Golden Horseshoe without a university campus, Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall is happy to see this unique partnership come to fruition.

“The expansion of Lakehead University’s presence downtown is a major win for Barrie,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall. “This second STEM Hub location not only brings new energy to our core, but also enhances the student experience by creating vibrant, modern spaces to learn, collaborate, and connect. It’s an investment in our students, our businesses, and the future of our city.”

Together with Georgian College, Lakehead University is re-energizing the downtown core and building an interconnected ecosystem where students can study locally for in-demand careers in engineering, mechatronics, and computer science. “By creating new pathways for local learners and new talent pipelines for local employers, we are helping build a stronger, more resilient regional economy,” explained Dr. Siddall.

In December 2024, the City of Barrie Council approved a plan to partner with Lakehead to bring the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Hub to downtown Barrie. Delivering engineering and computer science programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, the STEM Hub will create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to join in-demand industries, especially in STEM fields.

The Barrie STEM Hub will open in fall 2026. Applications are now open.

Find out more at www.lakeheadu.ca/about/barrie-stem-hub.

Thunder Bay, Ont. — CBC broadcaster and cultural commentator Elamin Abdelmahmoud will headline a Black History Month lecture at Lakehead University as part of the institution’s 60th Anniversary President’s Public Lecture Series.

The event will feature a fireside chat between Abdelmahmoud, host of CBC’s daily arts, entertainment and pop culture program Commotion, and Lakehead University Chancellor Dr. Rita Shelton Deverell.

The conversation is grounded in the theme "Black Identity in Canada and What It Means for Young People in an Ever-Radicalized World" and will examine how culture, media and storytelling shape identity and influence how young people see themselves and their futures.

Abdelmahmoud will reflect on his experience as a newcomer to Canada, having immigrated from Sudan at age 12, as well as his work in media and cultural commentary. The discussion will also address representation and the role of Black voices in Canadian public life.

Dr. Shelton Deverell is an award-winning scholar, broadcaster, television producer, journalist and theatre artist. She is among the first Black women in Canada to be a television host and network executive, the first woman to lead a journalism program at a Canadian university, and a co-founder of Vision TV.

The event is co-presented with and sponsored by the Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU).

The President’s Public Lecture Series was launched in honour of Lakehead University’s 60th anniversary and features a series of free public talks held on the university’s Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses. Events alternate between campuses and are also available by live stream and on-demand.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Time: 3 - 5 p.m.
Location: The Outpost, Lakehead Thunder Bay, 955 Oliver Rd + Livestream
Registration: lakeheadu.ca/presidentslectureseries

For more information, visit www.lakeheadu.ca/presidentslectureseries.

Where would we be without teachers?

Most of us have been taught by at least one educator who inspired us with their knowledge, changed the way we saw the world, and helped us believe in ourselves—even when we didn't.

That's why, every year, Lakehead honours outstanding faculty and staff members whose commitment to teaching helps their students excel.

Read on to meet Lakehead's most recent award recipients and discover why these educators deserve a round of applause.

Distinguished Instructor Award Recipient

Dr. Sam Salem
Civil Engineering

"Teaching with purpose—inspiring minds and shaping futures—is my foundational principle. Even if my day has been tough and I'm feeling exhausted, once I'm in the classroom and see the excitement in students' eyes, my tiredness disappears."

Favourite Class to Teach:
Any class that is practical and interactive, emphasizing real-life applications over theory alone. I often use visuals, real engineering examples, and open discussion to simplify complex concepts and engage students. By encouraging questions, ethical awareness of public safety, and hands-on learning, I help students connect classroom knowledge to real-world structural engineering with a strong sense of responsibility.

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
"Even though it's wonderful when my students get good grades, what makes me most proud of them is when they try hard and ask questions. It shows me that they want to learn. For me, teaching is a work of the heart. You have to love what you teach in order to inspire students."

Contribution to Teaching Award Recipients

Dr. Davut Akca
Interdisciplinary Studies (Criminology)

"I love teaching because it allows me to share my knowledge, research, and professional experience with new generations while learning alongside them. It is deeply rewarding to witness students grow, gain confidence, and find their career paths. Teaching also keeps me intellectually engaged and up to date in my research field.

Favourite Class to Teach:
One of my favourite classes is the highly hands-on Investigative Interviewing course. Students apply evidence-based interviewing techniques, conducting mock interviews in a separate classroom while their peers observe and later provide structured feedback. It allows students to experience professional-level skill development.

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
Consistent student feedback highlighting the practical and engaging nature of my courses. One student wrote: "Dr. Akca is a great prof and clearly explains the course materials." Comments like this affirm my belief that—in an era of easy access to information—creating meaningful opportunities to apply knowledge is what truly supports student learning and professional growth.

Dr. Ahmed Elshaer
Civil Engineering

"I enjoy helping students see the real world through engineering. The classroom becomes a place where curiosity grows, ideas turn into projects, and students start thinking like problem solvers. Teaching allows me to guide them through challenges and share the excitement of learning."

Favourite Class to Teach:
Either Wind Engineering, Engineering Optimization, or Artificial Intelligence. Wind Engineering is inspiring because students learn how wind interacts with real structures and how engineering decisions shape resilience and safety. Engineering Optimization and Artificial Intelligence empower students to solve complex problems using modern tools and data-driven thinking.

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
Students often mention that the clarity and energy in the classroom helped them succeed in courses they once worried about. I've had students explain that my teaching helped them choose engineering as a career path with confidence. It means a lot to know that one of my courses changed how they see themselves and what they believe they can achieve.

Dr. Kathryn Walton
English

"I love being able to create courses that not only teach students fundamental skills and ideas, but also inspire them to think deeply and intricately about English literature, its history, and its continued relevance today. Most of all, I love being able to interact with students on a day-to-day basis in the classroom."

Favourite Class to Teach:
I love teaching children's literature because students come into class with very set ideas about what it is (purely simplistic and fun). I tear down that assumption with an intense critical, historical overview of children's literature from the Middle Ages to today. It's very rewarding to get students to think more deeply about these seemingly simplistic works and how much attitudes towards children have shifted.

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
I am proud of any and all student engagement, but I am most proud when students are inspired to pursue graduate studies because of my teaching and materials.

Brian Weishar
Education

"My courses involve a lot of social interaction. I think it's important to build a community within the classroom. So one of the things I love about teaching is seeing the connections and discoveries that come out of that social interaction. It's a real gift to be a part of that."

Favourite Class to Teach:
"Each course offers something special. In the Classroom Management, Evaluation and Planning course, we spend a good portion of the time thinking about and practicing how to design learning. This feeds into the teacher-candidate placement. I get to 'follow' some of the students out into their placements, as a faculty advisor, and see them transfer what they've learned into action."

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
When teacher candidates come back from placement, after they've been in my course, and share the things they applied when they were out in the field. I love seeing the impact that they're making on their own as learners.

Other Contribution to Teaching Award Recipients:

Kaitlin Adduono, Nursing
Professor Tenille Brown, Law

Teaching Innovation Award Recipients

Mohit Dudeja
Education

"I love teaching because it enables me to transform learning into a creative, political, and collective experience. It allows me to design learning environments that question dominant narratives, centre underrepresented voices, and invite students to interrogate how power operates in our own lives and communities."

Favourite Class to Teach:
My favourites are activism courses, such as Gender & Climate Activism and Sexual Activism & Politics, that take unconventional and justice-oriented pedagogical approaches that position students as political actors rather than observers. Activism is a survival practice for me. I have been a fighter from an early age, and the battles I have lived through shape how I teach."

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
At the end of our 2025 Activism in Education play, the room echoed with claps and many were in tears. It wasn't the kind of emotion that comes from performance alone, but from recognition. Students had seen their lives, struggles, and unspoken truths reflected back to them.

Dr. Taryn Klarner
Kinesiology

"What I love most about teaching is the relationships. I care deeply about my students as people first, and I always try to position myself on their side. Together we face the course material and assignments. When students feel seen, safe, and supported, they're more willing to get involved and engage with everything."

Favourite Class to Teach:
Any class where I can use hands-on, experiential learning. I've found that learning really comes alive when students can touch, experiment, move, and engage. Hands-on activities—like our KNIT innovation—help break down barriers, build confidence, and make the content feel meaningful.

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
When students tell me that they feel genuinely supported and cared for in my classroom. Hearing that reminds me why this work matters so deeply because when students feel supported, they're not just getting through school, they're learning to believe in themselves and their potential. This is our highest calling as teachers.

Professor Larissa Speak
Law

"I hope that my teaching practices help build the capacity for settler students to better understand Indigenous perspectives and laws. I also really value the relationships I've built with Indigenous students—their contributions shape my teaching practices."

Favourite Class to Teach:
Indigenous Perspectives because it has a land-based learning component—the Gaa-maada'ooniding Law Camp. This class gets all of us out on the land and engaging with local knowledge holders about treaty history, respect, medicine teachings, and language. I'm very grateful for our partnership with the School of Indigenous Learning (SOIL), which makes this class possible.

Proudest Teaching Accomplishment:
After my first year teaching, an Indigenous law student gifted me an eagle feather to recognize my contributions to teaching at the law school. As a new instructor, this was a very encouraging and generous gift, grounded in Anishinaabe practices. I continue to care for this feather and to bring Anishinaabe practices and knowledges into my teaching.

Other Teaching Innovation Award Recipients:

Kristen McConnell, School of Nursing

Teaching Support Award Recipient:

Adam Humeniuk, Teaching Commons

Congratulations to all the 2025 recipients of Lakehead's highest teaching honours!

This Exceptional Alumni Award Winner Helps Children Blossom

"Students have taught me more lessons about myself than I ever could have expected," says educator and Lakehead alum Heidi Warren, above.

One moment in particular stands out for her. She was trying to lead an elementary school class outside, but as she was hurrying the children along, a young student tried to get Heidi to stop.

"I was feeling overwhelmed and rushed, and I said, 'Come on, let's go,' and he started to cry. He wanted to show me this incredible picture of a rainbow and hearts that he'd drawn for me on the chalkboard.

I realized that I needed to take a breath, connect with that student, and look at his picture. It only took a moment, but it made a huge difference."

"To keep planting seeds for meaningful change in education," is Heidi's mission. "I want to continue creating spaces where hearts and minds can grow (including my own)." Above is the chalk drawing created for her by her young student.

Taking the time to build connections shapes Heidi's approach to learning.

She's currently on a secondment as a whole child coach with the First Nation School Board in Yukon. Her regular job is as the principal of the White River First Nation's Nelnah Bessie John School in Beaver Creek, Yukon.

"I want to support kids so that they thrive because when I was a student, sometimes I got support and sometimes I didn't," she says.

Embracing Community in the Arctic

Heidi spent much of her childhood in the Northwest Territories, including Fort McPherson and Inuvik.

"There's no separation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in the north; we all lived in community together," she says.

"My parents taught me that we were visitors and that we should take our lead from Elders and Indigenous people. This gave me a much stronger relationship to the land and to the community."

Heidi received her Bachelor of Arts and Science and Bachelor of Education in 2010. She's happy to be teaching in Yukon, where she spent part of her childhood. Above, she stands beside her mother who's holding her little sister.

Both of Heidi's parents were educators. "As a young child, I loved being in the classroom with them, surrounded by books and chalkboards."

These early experiences made her want to be a teacher, but Heidi first tried out several different careers before embarking on an education degree as a mature student.

"I started at a large university close to Toronto—by that time, my family had moved to southern Ontario—but I found it hard to be in such an impersonal environment."

Stepping into a New World

Things changed when her mother told her that a university would be opening in Orillia.

This news prompted Heidi to enrol in Lakehead Orillia's Bachelor of Arts and Science program (specializing in biology and anthropology) and concurrent Bachelor of Education program.

She began her studies in 2006, becoming a member of Lakehead Orillia's charter class.

"It was perfect. The professors had high expectations, but they offered great support, and the classes were small.

Heidi (4th from the left) received an Exceptional Alumni Award at an October 25, 2025, ceremony at Lakehead Orillia. "It was lovely to be back again. The ceremony was heartfelt and true to the Orillia way."

I remember every single one of my instructors. Anthropology Professor Dr. Tim Kaiser's belief in me and his passion for his subject were inspirational. Biology professor Dr. Nanda Kanavilil was incredible, too. He always wanted us to strive for the deepest understanding of genetics and biology."

Nurturing Children's Self-Worth and Curiosity

In her role as a whole child coach, Heidi works with First Nation School Board education assistants and teachers committed to using a holistic lens with their learners.

Through her coaching, she enables educators to support students academically, culturally, and cognitively to create the sense of safety that's necessary for a supportive learning environment. "Historically, school hasn't been a safe space for Indigenous children," she explains.

First Nation School Board students at a fall camp that helps them stay connected to their culture and language through activities including setting fish nets, moose hunting, duck hunting, camp meal prep, and storytelling.

This fall, Heidi returned to the Orillia campus to receive an Exceptional Alumni Award for her transformative work as an educator. "I was very honoured and surprised," she says.

"I want to fan the flame of kids' passions and interests," she adds. "Helping children discover who they are gives me my sense of purpose."

Professors and current and former Lakehead students attend the launch of a new graduate degree program in Social Justice Studies now offered at the Orillia Campus. 

Orillia, Ont. - Lakehead University is expanding graduate degree program offerings in central Ontario with the launch of the Master of Social Justice Studies program, now offered at the Orillia Campus.

Designed for established career professionals wanting to expand their competencies or a student who’s just graduating from university, the Master of Social Justice Studies degree prepares students to work, research, and advocate for a more just and inclusive world.

“In this program we explore and tackle inequalities and oppressive structures of power to understand why they persist and what is required to bring about social change,” explained Dr. Glenda Bonafacio, dean of Lakehead’s Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. “We look at our relationships with each other, with the institutions and resources that structure our lives, as well as our relationship with the environment.”

Learning from faculty and researchers in fields like Indigenous learning, media, film and communications, political science, and criminology, students will engage with issues such as race, gender, poverty, and the environment.

Through coursework, practicum, and research or creative project-based learning, students have the opportunity to tailor their education to fit their interests and apply their knowledge to build better social, economic, and democratic policy and practice.

“Since we launched the degree program in 2016 in northwestern Ontario, our graduates have gone on to medical school and law school, others hold influential leadership, policy and advocacy roles with local non-profits, government, and community development organizations,” said program advisor Dr. Kevin Brooks.

The two-year program is designed to be flexible and accessible–courses are delivered in-person and online, allowing students to balance academic study with professional and personal responsibilities.

Applications are now open for September 2026.

For more information, visit https://www.lakeheadu.ca/programs/departments/social-justice.

Check out our first newsletter of 2026! It is full of exciting learning opportunities, events and more! Check it out here: https://conta.cc/3KFae9z

Check out our first newsletter of 2026! It is full of exciting learning opportunities, events and more! Check it out here: https://conta.cc/3KFae9z

After a very successful 2025 season for many of the Lakehead University wrestlers, including the crowning of two National Champions, we now have the opportunity to host the 2026 USPORTS WCL Wrestling Championships and show Canada what makes Thunder say such an amazing place.

The 2026 USports WCL Wresting Championships will take place from February 26 to March 1, 2026 at the Lakehead University Fieldhouse and Hangar!

It has been 14 years since Thunder Bay hosted this prestigious event, but the time has come for us to demonstrate how well we can put on a national quality sporting championship. Thunder Bay has a long proud history in the wrestling word. and we are ready for the return of the national championships to the Thunderdome. But to make this happen, we need the community's support.

We're looking for volunteers to support as: Scoreboard Operators, Camera Operators (tablets used for video playback), Ticket Sales, Mat Maintenance, Athlete Escorts, Security, Food Services, etc.

Join the Volunteer Team

What Volunteers Will Get

You will be able to assist with a national level sporting competition and help to put on an amazing event for Thunder Bay and for everyone watching across Canada.

Demonstrate your community spirit and support for Thunder Bay, and in turn gain recognition for doing so.

We hope that you will be a part of this university championship event and will help your community showcase to Canada just how amazing Thunder Bay is.

Apply to be a volunteer today

This Lakehead Leader Award Winner is Someone to Look Up to

On the road to success, some people sprint up the corporate ladder, while others extend that ladder behind them, lifting those who need help.

Brandon Rehfuhs, a Master of Science in Management student, offers a firm grip for those coming up behind him because he believes his purpose is to share his knowledge and experience.

The impact he's had on and off campus hasn't gone unnoticed.

Brandon received a 2025 Lakehead Leader Award in the Luminary category. The university's Student Success Centre recognized him with this honour for his success in spearheading projects that address community needs through entrepreneurship.

Brandon (centre), accepts a 2024-25 Lakehead Leader Award, as well as certificates of recognition and achievement, from Student Success Centre Director Paula Jean Broderick (left) and Vice-Provost & Registrar Andrea Tarsitano (right).

A Deep Love for the North

Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Brandon credits his father Axel—who graduated from Lakehead in 1993 with a Bachelor of Administration—with being his most inspiring mentor.

"He started his own water and plumbing business, and taught me about that as well as how to manage people effectively," explains Brandon, who earned his Honours Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting in 2024.

With that foundation to build on, he took advantage of Lakehead's many experiential learning opportunities, like the Enactus entrepreneurship club.

"I joined Enactus in my first year and later became president. They do amazing work helping people in the north."

Brandon loves welcoming new students to Lakehead during orientation, as well as providing academic support through small and large group peer mentorship sessions.

Building a Better World

Brandon's passion for social impact began early.

In 2017, when he was in grade nine, the City of Thunder Bay's Recreation and Culture Division gave him a Young Entrepreneurs Award to recognize his contributions to the community.

Calendars he designed raised $870 for charity.

He credits his time with the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy, Rotary Adventure in Citizenship Program, and the Thunder Bay Police Youth Corps with instilling civic pride. He has participated in many local events including The Terry Fox Run, Empty Bowls Caring Hearts, and Road Cleanup.

"Since then, I've wanted to help people learn more about leadership, public speaking, and soft skills. That's why I deliver workshops through the Student Success Centre," he says.

"I'm also grateful to Ingenuity—Lakehead's first business incubator—for giving Enactus space for hosting workshops and to Ingenuity Manager Alyson MacKay for offering us lots of pointers and assistance."

Through Enactus, Brandon (centre) and his fellow team members Morgan Gordon (left) and Aidan Woodhouse (right), competed at the 2024 Enactus Canada National Exposition.

Brandon has designed and run interactive programs for Indigenous youth groups and university students dedicated to developing critical thinking skills, professional development, and leadership training, as well as a workshop series to help young people develop practical workplace skills.

"I'm mostly just trying to help people be the best person they can be, and I want to help shape the new generation by sharing the knowledge I've gained," he says.

Welcoming High School Students to Lakehead

In 2022, Brandon started working as a program assistant with Shad Canada as another way of giving back.

Shad is an immersive mentorship and entrepreneurship program for high school students that takes place on university campuses. It's focused on young people who want to make a difference in the fields of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics.

Shad Canada is an international nonprofit organization that inspires students to improve the world through entrepreneurial action. As Shad Lakehead's program coordinator, Brandon helped plan and execute a month-long program for high-achieving high school students that sparked innovation, creativity, and teamwork.

"I love being able to teach the amazing students going into Grade 11 and 12 who come to the program for the month of July," says Brandon, who recently became the program coordinator for Shad Lakehead.

For 'Pitch Day!', he matched entrepreneurial students with business mentors who could help them develop their ideas and pitch them to a panel of judges.

"I've gotten messages from past students who are now in university about how the Shad program affected them and helped them grow," he says.

Forging a Future for All

In 2023, Brandon won the Founder's Bursary presented by the John Dobson Foundation for his superior leadership with Enactus. He also received the Enactus Canada Gold Community Service Leadership Award.

Lakehead's Enactus Team was a runner-up in the TD Entrepreneurship Challenge for their project involving soft skills, entrepreneurship, and mental health.

"Being recognized shows me that other people are seeing the impact we're having, and I'm hoping it inspires them to do this type of work as well," he says.

Brandon wants young people to dream big. He's even started his own business, Garant Enterprises, to teach them soft skills and entrepreneurship.

"They're our new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs, so helping them become their best selves is so fulfilling."