Meet the 2026 Pearson Scholars

Oluwadarasimi Esther Adekunle

Bridge House College
Nigeria

University of Toronto Scarborough, Co-op Life Sciences (Health Sciences Stream) 

Hello! My name is Oluwadarasimi Adekunle, and I am from Nigeria.  

I have always been deeply fascinated by the human body, so I actively engage in activities that encourage me to be curious and to seek to understand the why and how behind any intriguing phenomenon I encounter. My secondary school, City of Knowledge Academy, was a catalyst in the development of my potential. I served as a STEM Leader, organising innovative projects such as Microbial Fuel Cells, Biogas and Farm Alarm Systems.

I participated in the 2023/2024 CONRAD Challenge, where we presented a prototype of a farm alarm system designed to help address the alarming rate of insecurity faced by farmers in Northern Nigeria. Beyond research and innovation, I also love building working models of biological systems, such as the excretory system, the circulatory system, and the nephron, all of which I donated to my school’s biology laboratory to serve as instructional materials for visual learners.

I have wanted to become a medical doctor for as long as I can remember because I believe that medicine is an extraordinary field of study. The intricacy of every cell, tissue, organ, and system provides compelling evidence that medicine is a boundless and ever-evolving field. However, I do not aspire to be just any medical doctor, but rather one who sees medicine as a means to extend empathy, kindness, and care, especially to those living in disadvantaged communities.

In addition to academics, I have sought to enhance my technical skills. Fortunately, City of Knowledge Academy enabled me to become Microsoft certified. Alongside my technical pursuits, I have engaged in extracurricular activities, holding leadership roles as both a School Prefect and Boarding House Captain. I mentored fellow students, supported their academic improvement, and helped them build the confidence to showcase their skills and talents.

The University of Toronto, to me, is not merely an educational institution but a platform that provides opportunities to learn from others, lead with purpose and contribute meaningfully to society. I am therefore profoundly grateful to Bridge House College, where I am currently studying my A-levels, for nominating me for the Lester B Pearson Scholarship.

Oliver Michael Ames 

Cape Elizabeth High School
Maine, U.S.A.

University of Toronto Mississauga; Studies in Communication, Culture, Information and Technology

Hello! My name is Oliver. I am from the East Coast of the United States, and I am extremely honored and excited to be joining UTM this fall as a Pearson Scholar!

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by the ways modern technology can help people thrive and enhance our communities. Over the past few years, I’ve enjoyed building a small technology consulting company—supporting individuals, non-profit organizations, and businesses through IT, design, and coaching services. Outside of work and school, I love being involved with theater productions, cooking, going on adventures with friends and family, and spending time in nature. 

Maria Paula Araujo Munizaga 

Espiritu Santo Feminine Private Bilingual School
Ecuador

University of Toronto Mississauga; Studies in Communication, Culture, Information and Technology 

I am María Paula Araujo Munizaga, a youth leader, motivational speaker, and change-maker from Guayaquil, Ecuador. My purpose is to expand access to education and global opportunities for the next generation.

Since the age of 13, I began building my path through volunteer work, leadership programs, and competitive scholarships—without realizing that these experiences were already shaping a purpose-driven profile. Today, I use that journey to empower other young people to believe in their potential, explore STEM careers, and access opportunities beyond their immediate environment.

I served as President of one of the largest youth leadership schools in Latin America, where I led initiatives that impact hundreds of students. I have had the opportunity to represent youth voices in international spaces such as the Women Economic Forum, and I have been a recipient of scholarships funded by the U.S. Embassy. I am also an ambassador for Inspiring Girls, promoting female empowerment and the participation of women in leadership and STEM.

I am the founder and director of two youth-led initiatives. Inspira+ focuses on guiding students from an early age to intentionally build their profiles through volunteering, leadership, and global exposure. Youth 360 is a leadership platform designed to develop the skills, mindset, and confidence young people need to become agents of change in their communities.

Through my talks, mentorship, and initiatives, I have impacted more than 1,025 young people, demonstrating that leadership is not defined by age, but by action.

Muhammad Maroof Atif 

The City School Ravi Campus
Pakistan

University of Toronto Mississauga, Studies in Life Sciences 

Hi! My name is Maroof Atif, and I’m from Lahore, Pakistan.  

I was named Maroof—meaning “popular”—by one of my three grandmothers, which is ironic for someone who lost three consecutive student council elections before finally becoming Head Boy. #NeverGiveUp  

If you’ve met Pakistanis before, you might expect chai, cricket, and rom-coms. I’m a glitch in the system. I’ve never tasted chai; my caffeine loyalty is strict: extra shot, one pump vanilla, no sugar. That extra shot fuels my 3 a.m. rabbit holes—one minute I’m watching torque sensor schematics, the next I’m buried in Wikipedia pages on Roman Caesars. A single throwaway reference to “epidemiology” in a medical drama once sent me down a path that ended with completing a Johns Hopkins public health course. I also can’t watch hyper-realistic medical shows normally; I’m too busy drafting differential diagnoses before the episode ends.  

I serve as Head Boy, Patron of the Debate Society, a Science Bowl mentor, and a proud friend to many. After five years of persistence, I recently won the All-Pakistan Debating Nationals, a long-held dream. Alongside this, through my initiative FOCUS Pakistan, I’ve organized pop-up clinics serving hundreds of patients daily. Through winning and coaching for the National Science Bowl, I’ve learned how to truly disseminate knowledge and mentor others.  

One slightly odd thing about me: I compulsively love maps. I map everything—public health access, biodiversity loss, debate motions—and I’ll probably end up mapping my adventures at the University of Toronto, too. When I’m not doing any of the above, I’m glued to Liverpool matches. #YNWA At U of T, I plan to pursue Biology for Health Sciences, alongside a geospatial data science minor, exploring how medicine, data, and maps intersect. I am truly humbled and honored to be a Lester B. Pearson Scholar, and I’m excited to bring my relentless curiosity, wonky maps, and slightly over-caffeinated love for learning into this remarkable community. 

Su April Aung 

Prem Tinsulanonda International School
Burmese student in Thailand

Faculty of Arts and Science, Woodsworth College, Studies in Social Sciences 

Hello everyone! Mingalarpar!  

My name is Su and I’m from Yangon, Myanmar.

From educational gaps, disability employment, to cross-cultural public forums, my passions stem around societal absences that are gently overlooked. By conducting independent policy research on Burmese legislation and direct engagement with young teenagers of the Autism Spectrum Disorder, I’ve focused on rebuilding efforts towards neurodiversity awareness and embracing the unique skills each and everyone of us brings to society, whether traditional or not. Simultaneously, I’ve explored my enthusiasm for education and speech by establishing an international debate community alongside like-minded scholars across 9 ASEAN nations, sharing resources for state school students transitioning into higher education, and building my own charity for Burmese refugees affected by the current civil war. Beyond this, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the diversity of linguistics and cultures. Currently, I speak four languages: Burmese, English, Chinese, and French.

I’ve always believed that genuine power lies in starting something small, and then letting others do the same: in showing others a way forward, not by walking ahead, but by turning back and offering a hand. I’m beyond grateful to be a 2026 Lester B Pearson Scholar and would like to express my gratitude to Mom and Dad, my friends, my counselor, my teachers, and everyone who has supported me throughout my life.  

I look forward to continuing my work at the University of Toronto, contributing to my peers’ initiatives, and growing together as one tight-knit community.  

Hope to see you all this fall! 

Andrea Avendaño Gaytán

Colegio Cruz Azul Campus Hildago
Mexico 

University of Toronto Scarborough, Co-op Life Sciences (Health Sciences Stream)

"Y porque el miedo que se esconde entre la gente va a acabar cuando vean la maravilla que es amar." -Silvana Estrada.  

I am Andrea Avendaño Gaytán, a hopeful little human being that grew up in a small town in the city of Toltecs in Mexico. My endless curiosity and determination have allowed me to be a student of excellence. Nevertheless, love is what has made me unstoppable. I am able to stand up, be brave, and be great at so many things thanks to the amazingly strong and courageous women that have surrounded me throughout my life. The sweet love they showered me with is my fuel and motive to keep dreaming bigger than what they were ever allowed to. Maybe it is thanks to this great love that I have always felt emotions very vividly, and therefore, tears have always been with me in the most important moments of my life ever since I can remember. Contrary to expectation, it never felt like a burden to me; I have always thought of it as a blessing. Perceiving my surroundings so vividly has allowed me to act with genuine sincerity in all that I do, and that defines me as a person. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity, and I am so ready to make this world better. From spreading joy through my dancing and singing to creating projects that help girls and women be at their best, I will always make sure my honesty and love show through what I do. My biggest wish is for people to feel love through my science.

Hari Ganesh Babu 

GEMS United Indian School, Abu Dhabi
Indian student in the United Arab Emirates

Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, Engineering Science 

Vanakkam! I'm Hari Ganesh Babu. I was born in Tamil Nadu, India but raised in the UAE. My story runs along two broad threads: environmental advocacy, and a deep belief in the power of human connection.  

My commitment to sustainability started from looking for simple solutions to climate problems at school science exhibitions, all the way to representing the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi's Sustainable Schools Initiative at COP28 and participating in the reforms process for YOUNGO (a UNFCCC Youth Constituency). For this work, I was honored to receive the Roots & Shoots award from Dr. Jane Goodall herself. To have spoken to her and to have heard about her journey as an advocate, in person, remains an interaction I'll forever cherish!

Leadership is a value that's always resonated with me, and I have worked towards it by taking responsibility as my school's Environment & Sustainability Coordinator (2023-24) and Student Council President (2025). I am also a passionate debater and I've led our Model UN program as the Co-Director General, hosting conferences with over 220 delegates.

I believe mentorship is a natural chain of human connection, with each person passing it forward. Working with student organizations allows me to be part of that chain. As a board member of "Kitaab," I've overseen the refurbishing and donation of 1,000+ notebooks and storybooks to underprivileged students in rural communities. Through "Spaced," I get to roast s'mores and tell campfire stories at the stargazing nights I organize (while still fostering a sense of wonder for our night skies)!

Stories invoke emotion; emotions resonate within purpose; and purpose enables action. It's for this reason that I started "Down To Earth," a project where I've built a student-led environmental audiobook library taking a new stand in climate advocacy.

Besides work, I'm a very passionate fan of football (soccer) and everything it stands for. There are days where all I crave is a neat evening's game of football. I also enjoy indulging in 3D art and I love having fun with what I animate.

I may have many interests and pursuits, but one thing remains forever constant: I truly am the amalgamation of everyone who's been a part of my story (special credits to my friends, parents, teachers, and school!). I am truly honored to have been selected as a Lester B. Pearson Scholar, and I can't wait to continue my journey alongside global changemakers, each with their own unique worldview, as part of the Pearson Scholars community at the University of Toronto!

Tanush Vivek Chainani 

The Millennium School, Dubai
Indian student in the United Arab Emirates  

Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, Computer Engineering 

Hey! I'm Tanush, an Indian nurtured and educated in the United Arab Emirates, and I am honored to join the 2026 cohort of Pearson Scholars.

I grew up in Dubai, a city built with a progressive vision and a "sky-is-the-limit" ambition. I always thought I embodied those principles, but my work in recent years has given me a healthy dose of realism. I've learned that the most important part of any design isn't the dream, but the detours, those moments when a quadcopter crashes into a ceiling or a solar-powered machine stalls under a cloud. My love for engineering was born from a "love of the puzzle," a feeling that led me to work on projects including drones, robots, and even an electric car.

This mindset has carried me from a research internship at the National University of Singapore, where I built AI tools to assist the visually impaired, to local competitions and boardrooms. As President of my school's Innovation Council and a student representative on the Local Advisory Board, I've worked to create opportunities for younger students. Over the years, I've mentored over a hundred students and helped host events reaching well over a thousand attendees.

At the University of Toronto, I'll be studying Computer Engineering with a focus on embedded systems and low-power computing. I'm interested in building technology that works in messy conditions: assistive devices that don't fail when you need them most, and autonomous systems that adapt instead of breaking. I'm ready to learn as much as I can from researchers and academic peers alike, and contribute to teams building reliable, well-engineered systems.

Outside the lab, you'll find me at a chessboard, behind a piano, or hunting down Toronto's live music scene. I'm trading Dubai's endless sun for Canadian winters, and I'm excited to see what I'll build next.

I'm incredibly grateful to my teachers, parents, peers, mentors, and everyone else who has supported me over the years, and I can't wait to join the University of Toronto this fall!

Soham Chhabra 

Prayaag International School, Panipat
India 

University of Toronto Scarborough, Co-op Computer Science 

Hi! My name is Soham Chhabra and I grew up in Panipat, a city known as the “cast-off capital of India”. Growing up amidst textile industries all around me, I witnessed how progress and prosperity came at the cost of smoke billowing from factories. Therefore, I always yearned to see my city without those ugly “black clouds” emitted from factories. But I didn’t know the means to convert this dream into a reality. I gradually realized that change always begins with us, and when we change, the world changes.  

Through the Computer Science degree at U of T, I aim to use technology to build a sustainable, green future not just for my city, but for the whole world. I am really grateful to the Pearson community for providing me the chance to expand my horizons, and harness technology as a tool to make the Earth a better, safer place to live in.

Nina Dobrovodska 

International School of Tianjin
Slovak student in China 

University of Toronto Mississauga, Studies in Social Sciences 

Hi, my name is Nina! I come from Slovakia but have spent the last three years living in Tianjin, China. I am deeply honored to become a member of the 2026 cohort of Pearson Scholars and feel thrilled to pursue a degree in History and Political Science at U of T.  

At heart, I’d describe myself as a poet, enticed by the prospect of exploring and crafting meaning. Upon leaving my home country, I grew even more acutely aware of the words’ power. The transition from the local to an international IB curriculum was both a challenging and eye-opening experience, exposing the limits of the education system I grew up in — a lack of discussion. Particularly, as I discovered that the history I was taught with objectivity is endlessly contestable and no perspective is set in stone. This change encouraged me to dive head-first into opportunities for discussion, whether by coaching students in the student-led organization Literacy Lab, co-leading the school’s STEM Tutoring Program, starting an Art History Club for the Elementary, translating Slovak poetry into English or co-editing a medical publication at the Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Beyond academics, I am an enthusiastic football player, a theatre tech-crew manager and a beginning novel author. Together, these experiences persuaded me that writing and speaking in ways which urges others to reflect is something I’d love to continue doing in my future.

Throughout high school, the words I’ve been exposed to transformed me from a poet into an advocate, aspiring to initiate reflection and discussion where it is neglected, particularly in traditional educational systems. I cannot wait to join and contribute to UTM’s community as the next step in my journey! 

Chidera Daniella Echedom 

Hillcrest High School
Nigeria 

Faculty of Arts and Science, New College, Studies in Life Science 

Hi! My name is Chidera Echedom, a senior from Hillcrest School Jos, Nigeria, and I am really honored and excited to be joining the University of Toronto community as a Pearson scholar this fall.  

From an early age, I have nurtured a passion for bringing smiles to the faces of those around me and alleviating pain in any way I can. This passion has shaped my decisions and activities: from volunteering at a local orphanage where I get the opportunity to spend time with the kids carrying out various activities (ranging from teaching math and science classes to holding arts and crafts sessions) and founding an NGO with the goal of solving the long, overlooked problem of orphan care in my community, to interning at a pain clinic and carrying out research on antibiotic resistance as a member of the prestigious Summer Science Program. Each activity a representation of my constant attempt to not only bring my passion to life in everything I do, but to rise to every challenge as well.  

A natural born leader who has held various leadership positions including: NHS President, Class President and Creative Writing Club Founder and President, you are bound to see me running for various leadership positions on campus! I believe that true leadership is service and I am really excited to see what impact sharing and growing my talents will have at the U of T. Nevertheless, as an introverted extrovert, you are also bound to see me enjoying quiet days at the library or the many beautiful study spaces offered at the U of T with my face buried in a novel or my eyes glued to my laptop screen as I attempt to satisfy my curiosity on topics that pique my interest. A strong Christian, I am also really excited to share my faith during my time at the U of T. I firmly believe in being the change you wish to see and I can’t wait to build life-long friendships with like-minded, passionate individuals who are eager to bring about positive change in our world. 

Yehui Feng 

Jumeirah College
Hong Kong student in the United Arab Emirates

Faculty of Arts and Science, St. Michael’s College, Studies in Mathematical & Physical Sciences

Hi! I’m Yehui Feng. I grew up in Shanghai for my first eleven years, and for the past seven, Dubai has been home. I’m a person who finds both mathematics and Guzheng equally fascinating.

I’m drawn to finding order in chaos, and that instinct has pulled me toward mathematics, culture, and community in ways that feel deeply connected. Mathematically, it led me to PROMYS and Euler Circle, a Silver Medal at the British Mathematical Olympiad, and representing the UAE in International Mathematical Modeling Challenge. I’m obsessed with the beauty in pure math, but that was never enough. I wanted to see what it could do.

Math is also a sandbox for reality.  After spending years stuck in Dubai traffic, I began researching traffic optimization, building simulations and reinforcement learning models with graph theory to explore how cities could move more efficiently through adaptive routing. Around the same time, The Knowledge Society pulled me into entrepreneurship and systems thinking, where I worked on everything from biotech solutions for industrial waste to AI avatars designed to restore authentic conversation between public figures and the public.

And then there’s the other half of me: the one that has been playing Guzheng for over ten years, performing at diplomatic events and cultural exchanges across the UAE and Middle East. Growing up inside Dubai’s remarkable intercultural, interfaith patchwork shaped how I connect with the world. I care deeply about being a cultural bridge, amplifying individual voices, and helping people feel genuinely understood across differences.

And honestly? I’m ridiculously excited for Toronto. After seven years in Dubai’s constant heat, I cannot wait to finally live in a proper winter, skate and ski as much as I want, and find the warmth from the community. I’m incredibly grateful to join the Lester B. Pearson community, and I cannot wait to learn from and build alongside people from all over the world.

River Fraser 

Hicksville High School
New York, U.S.A. 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Woodsworth College, Studies in Life Sciences 

Hey everyone! My name is River, and I am from New York. I am excited to join the University of Toronto community as a Pearson Scholar. I am excited to explore the world around me, and I plan to take my first steps here!

To give a short rundown, I have been in the circus, lived on a farm, spoken in state assemblies, saved a life, traveled, learned the bassoon, failed at making a beef wellington, mimicked bird calls, and crowd-surfed at many concerts (surprisingly with no concussions). However, nothing truly fulfills me like studying the natural world, so I plan to study biology. During high school, I collaborated with the Audubon Society, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and Rockefeller University to complete ecological restoration projects, public outreach, and examine human-animal interactions. I believe that through nature, we can create community, which is how I also introduced a monarch butterfly education program into local elementary schools.  

However, my journey with self-expression is what drives me to impact those around me. When you dare to become yourself, whether it be as a clown, a musician, a biologist, or just a person, everything that follows is just part of the river of change. Become who you are, and fight to let others, whether human or not, live as they want to.  

I’d like to thank my mother, friends, teachers, community, and the Pearson committee for this opportunity. Embrace change, and it will push you far!

David Archie Luteka Holi 

Braeburn School
Kenya 

Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, Electrical Engineering 

Hello everyone! David Holi here! Representing Nairobi, Kenya. I’m thrilled to be joining the faculty of Applied Science and Engineering and deeply honoured to have been awarded the Lester B Pearson Scholarship.

I’ve been a lot of things, an athlete in basketball and cross country, an actor starring 5 times in my school’s productions and a leader acting as president and co chair of the BCC club. But I am much more than my accomplishments, I am someone who loves to expand my horizons, dive into topics I am unfamiliar with and emerge enlightened or more confused then when I started, either way I remain thoroughly addicted to discovery.

I realised I was lucky enough to be a child of the internet age, free to explore the digital world, and that others may not be as fortunate, which is why my friends and I co founded a non-profit Blue Bridge Empowerment Initiative to give rural high school students the opportunity to gain vital digital literacy skills. I believe technology shapes society, not the other way around, and I believe in a future where everyone has access to the same technology that allowed me to be who I am, where learning is not a matter of luck but choice.

Once you get to know me, you’ll find that I am a perfectionist who pours passion into everything I do, so I will warn you if you ever find me on the court, I will play like its game 7 of the NBA finals. I love reading, art and hiking, though sadly not all at once. I am especially excited to see the trails around Toronto, as well as experience what its like to be caught in a snowfall.

Again, I’d like to thank my parents for all the support they’ve given me through my rough patches, my friends for the memories and struggles we endured together, my teachers for their guidance, and most importantly, the Pearson committee for selecting me. I plan to do you all proud.

Abeer Jalal 

Learning Alliance DHA
Pakistan 

University of Toronto Scarborough, Co-op Psychology & Health Studies 

Hi! My name is Abeer Jalal, and I’m from Lahore, Pakistan.  

From colour-coding my notebooks like they were survival manuals to humming ABBA while making late-night coffee (I am, unofficially, the family barista!), I’ve always looked for patterns -  in routines, in stories, and especially in people. I’m endlessly curious about why we feel what we feel, and why we sometimes struggle to say it out loud. That curiosity has shaped much of what I build. After volunteering at the Lahore Autism Centre, I started Every Little Voice to help make emotional literacy more accessible in classrooms across Lahore. What began as notes in a journal slowly grew into Urdu emotion posters, conversations with psychologists and teachers, and workshops where parents spoke openly about silence and stigma. At school, as President of Publications, I carried that same spirit into founding LA Pulse, our student newspaper, and organising events such as TEDx.  

Beyond structured roles, I approach life with a kind of stubborn optimism. I tend to find meaning in everything: in films I overanalyse like case studies, or in turning ordinary moments into questions worth exploring. I’m an open book in the truest sense: unguarded and always ready to talk about the things that matter. I care deeply about building communities where people feel seen, and I hope to continue growing into an architect of change - someone who builds with intention and leads with empathy. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity to join the University of Toronto as a Lester B. Pearson Scholar. The trust placed in me through this scholarship means more than I can put into words. Surrounded by like-minded peers who challenge and inspire me, my curiosity will not be solitary; instead, it will thrive. 

Shohruhmirzo Khudaykulov

Presidential School In Karshi
Uzbekistan 

University of Toronto Scarborough, Co-op Life Sciences (Health Sciences Stream)

Assalomu Alaykum!  My name is Shohruhmirzo, and I am thrilled to join the incredible U of T community!  

I describe myself as someone deeply passionate about neuroscience and technology, or "Neurotech" for short: specifically, how the brain shapes the decisions we make and how that knowledge can be turned into tools that actually help people such as those developed by Neuralink. Growing up in Karshi, Uzbekistan, I grew up working in my family's lemon greenhouse and developed an early obsession with how systems, biological and technological, actually work. That insatiable curiosity has driven everything I've built since. I truly subsist on discovery and exploration.

During high school, I founded a solar-powered smart irrigation startup piloted across Uzbek farms, and a youth MedTech incubator supporting student researchers across 11 regions. I also conducted epidemiological research on African Sleeping Sickness through the Pioneer Academics Research Institute, which was published in the International Journal of Integrative and Modern Medicine. During my hospital internship, I co-authored a clinical study on infant neurodevelopment published in an international journal of Medical Sciences. My friends would say I'm someone who can't help but turn a problem into a project. That's genuinely who I am!

Outside academics, I taught teens long-term investing through my investing community CapitalSense, performed in theater productions, released a guitar series online and have been a proud left winger of our school varsity soccer since 2021. In the era of algorithms and doubt, I love living my life like a Polymath.

Lastly, I’d like to express my immense gratitude to my Presidential School, my parents, and the mentors who guided me as they shaped me into who I am today. I am deeply honored to receive the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, and I look forward to joining the Class of 2030 and making the most of the endless opportunities the U of T community has to offer. 

Jiaqi Liu 

Halifax Grammar School
Chinese student in Nova Scotia, Canada 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Woodsworth College, Studies in Computer Science  

Hi! I am Jiaqi Liu from Halifax Grammar School in Halifax, Canada. I have always been interested in STEM, and I am now passionate about computer science, with a particular interest in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. My interest in AI led me to explore emotion detection, where I developed models to interpret human expressions. Alongside this, my involvement in cybersecurity competitions, including CyberPatriot, has allowed me to build practical experience in system defense, vulnerability analysis, and threat mitigation. These experiences have shaped my approach to technology and drawn me to the intersection of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, where systems must be designed to operate reliably and securely in complex, real-world environments.

At the University of Toronto, I hope to deepen my understanding of computer science and artificial intelligence. I am honored and grateful to be a Lester B. Pearson Scholarship recipient, and I look forward not only to benefiting from the wide range of opportunities at the university, but also to contributing to its diverse community.

Alice Pedroza Luna 

Escola Básica e Secundária Quinta das Flores
Brazillian student in Portugal 

Faculty of Music, Bachelor of Music in Performance 

My name is Alice Luna, and I study classical singing. I feel deeply honored to be part of the Lester B. Pearson Scholars Program, and I accept this recognition with great gratitude and responsibility.

As a child, I left Brazil to live in Portugal, where I discovered my passion for opera and developed a life philosophy grounded in discipline and perseverance. My story, however, has been shaped by much more than music. I became a two-time Pan American karate champion, served my community as a Scout, developed projects at TUMO (the Creative Technologies Center), and participated in fundraising initiatives supporting sustainability, education, and health. These experiences strengthened my commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Throughout my journey, I came to understand that knowledge opens doors and that education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming the world into a better place. Beyond these activities, I enjoy studying philosophy, watching anime, and cooking.

My greatest dream is to perform in the world's leading opera productions while promoting respect and appreciation for the arts. At the same time, I want to bring Brazilian representation to classical music and inspire future generations to keep striving for their dreams.

Divya Shivani Madhavan 

Cathedral & John Connon School
India 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Victoria College, Studies in Computer Science 

My name is Divya Madhavan, and I’m from Mumbai, India. I am driven by the belief that technological innovation is most meaningful when it expands access and opportunity for those who need it most.  

This philosophy has shaped much of my work, including the FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition. As captain of Team Mad Engineers #25100, I led our team to the Innovate Award and Winning Alliance title at Nationals before representing India at the championship in Australia, where we earned the Second Inspire Award. More rewarding than any result, however, was fully funding and mentoring a team of underprivileged students and establishing a robotics lab at their school to ensure that the impact of our efforts would continue long after the competition season ended.  

My interest in computer science further finds its way through scientific research and its potential to improve lives. I have published research on menstrual flow estimation and Parkinson's tremor classification, both focused on making healthcare more accessible and effective. I also had the privilege of contributing to research at NCBS, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. These experiences have reinforced my aspiration to pursue academia in hopes of advancing scientific understanding in service of others.  

Beyond academics, I have fenced sabre nationally and been involved in Model United Nations throughout high school, earning awards at conferences including Stanford, Yale Taiwan, and IIT Bombay MUN.  

I have long been fascinated by philosophy and literature, particularly the works of Camus and Dostoevsky. Music is equally important to me; I have played the piano for fourteen years and spent countless nights carefully listening to an eclectic range of albums, from the classics by The Beatles and Pink Floyd to the jazz of Brubeck. Whether through books, music, research, or robotics, I am constantly seeking new ways to understand both people and the world around me. It is an honour to be named a Lester B. Pearson Scholar, and I am excited to join a community of students who share a commitment to creating meaningful change in society. 

Adrian Martinez 

Sage Oak Charter Schools
California, U.S.A. 

Faculty of Arts and Science, St. Michael’s College, Studies in Computer Science 

Hi! My name is Adrian, I'm from Mission Viejo, California. I've been building things for as long as I can remember, from a doorbell for my room when I was six to a homemade VR headset from scratch in 11th grade. Recently, I founded Infinilearn, an Edtech startup to help middle schoolers enjoy learning math. I worked with engineers at Meta, built several partnerships with investors for Infinilearn which is now in several schools, all while finishing high school. My journey was shaped by many trials and errors and dozens of rejections, helping me build the resilience that drives me today.  

When I'm not coding or running my company, you'll probably find me playing piano, over a chess board, or at the gym before the sun comes up. My faith has kept me grounded through every pivot and setback, and I'm grateful to God and my family for getting me here. I'm honored and excited to join the Pearson Scholars community and can't wait to see what we build together at U of T. 

Madison Alysa Morgan 

James M. Steele Early College High School
Texas, U.S.A. 

Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Bachelor of Kinesiology 

Hi! My name is Madison Morgan, and I am excited to join the University of Toronto as a Pearson Scholar. Inspired by the Blue Zones, I am fascinated by the intersection between movement and longevity and hope to explore this complex topic further through a degree in kinesiology, taking an interdisciplinary approach to fitness and medicine. Whether through research or hands-on learning, I cannot wait to dive into the many factors that influence health and lifestyle.

As a high school student, I was involved in everything from Student Council to the district-wide Wellness Ambassadors Program; however, my pride and joy was serving as President of National Honor Society, where I cultivated my leadership skills and developed my love for community events. My favorite project was initiating my school's first Color Run in support of a local animal shelter, bringing together my passion for wellness and supporting non-profits. Aside from my school activities, I love to spend time outdoors with my family, and I especially enjoy cycling and cooking.

In Toronto, I look forward to building an international perspective while expanding my skillset and exploring the world of academia. I am especially grateful to my family, friends, and teachers for their support as I begin this new journey.

Sowparnika Nair 

Forest Hill Collegiate Institute
Indian student in Ontario, Canada 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Trinity College, Studies in Computer Science 

Hi, my name is Sowparnika Nair, or Nika to my closest friends! Born in Dublin, Ireland, and raised in Bangalore, I am a passionate learner in the field of Computer Science. I am eager to begin this exciting new journey as a Pearson Scholar at the University of Toronto.

Right from a young age, I have been deeply fascinated with mathematics, which has shaped the way I think and interpret problems. I enjoyed solving complex challenges through logic, often spending late hours coding, and I eventually won awards at numerous math and programming competitions.  

I constantly challenged myself in mathematics and computer programming by undertaking several research projects, including one where I explored different approaches to factorial computation under diverse time-memory complexities. Optimizing the time-complexity of fundamental mathematical logic helped me improve large-scale software efficiency, which later laid the foundation for my Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) based prediction model for real world problems. My research has been ultimately recognized with several awards and peer-reviewed international publications.

My work at the intersection of AI and Sustainability was officially recognized by the British Science Association, which inspired me to found The GreenAI Network. It has eventually grown into a global learning platform, where I partnered with CISCO to provide opportunities for anyone to learn and explore various disciplines in Computer Science. The platform now supports hundreds of learners from across 40+ countries, and I hope to continue this initiative to ensure intellectual rigor is grounded in societal responsibility.

Apart from technology, I enjoy being a hobbyist artist and a sky photographer in my leisure time! My love for nature and its beauty is reflected in most of my artworks.  

I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship. I look forward to continuing my passion for Computer Science at one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

Marco Nascimento Birolini 

Colégio Planck
Brazil 

Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design; Architectural Studies 

Hey!  My name is Marco Birolini, and I am from São José dos Campos, a medium-sized city in Brazil.  During my time at Colegio Planck, I founded the school’s largest student-led organization, the International Students Club, which grew to more than 50 members, while also participating in the TED-Ed Club and serving as a School Ambassador.  

Beyond the classroom, curiosity and discipline shape who I am.  In any given week, I might be attending volleyball or skating practice, studying Spanish, advancing in architecture courses, gardening, drawing, or even exploring new technologies.  At the Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design, I hope to bring this same energy and variety into my work.  I want to design architecture that stands out not only for its aesthetic quality, but also for its technological innovation, sustainability, and connection with the environment.  

I am truly honored to be selected as a Lester B. Pearson Scholar and look forward to growing as an architect at the University of Toronto.

Rasit Nasongkhla 

Thai-Chinese International School
Thailand 

Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, Electrical Engineering 

Hi! My name is Rasit Nasongkhla, though most people call me by my nickname, Jett, as that’s how we do it in Thailand. I’ve lived in Samutprakan for my entire life, which is located on the outskirts of Bangkok. I find it quite peaceful here.  

Throughout my years at Thai-Chinese International School (TCIS), I’ve dedicated time to activities like founding an engineering club, establishing a peer-tutoring program, going on school community service trips, and being a part of my school’s varsity soccer team. Outside my school, I also went on humanitarian missions, such as collecting and donating food to an orphanage. I’m a very STEM guy, and I truly enjoy learning for the sake of learning. I also find teaching very fun and fulfilling! My friends like to call me a “nerd”, but they treat it more like a compliment.  

Despite what I mentioned above, I actually spend most of my time being an everyday teenager. I like going out on trips with my friends, playing video games, building random stuff using my 3D printer, golfing, skiing, kayaking, and much more. My class is quite academic, and I often help my classmates with math and science too. This is one of the main ways I give back to my community, which I think is more important than my academic performance.  

I’m honored to be a Pearson Scholar, and I’m ecstatic to use the opportunities that are now available to me to help my community in magnitudes of ways, including those that branch out from my passion for teaching.

Phan Quynh Anh Nguyen 

Nguyen Sieu School
Vietnam 

University of Toronto Scarborough, Co-op Physical & Environmental Sciences 

Hello, my name is Nguyễn Phan Quỳnh Anh, and I am from Vietnam. At the University of Toronto, I will pursue a degree in Biochemistry, driven by my interest in how science can be translated into products that improve everyday life. Growing up in Vietnam, I have been deeply connected to local, natural ingredients and traditional knowledge surrounding wellness and skincare. These experiences inspired my long-term dream of developing a sustainable skincare line using Vietnamese-sourced materials, combining scientific research with ethical production and environmental responsibility. I view science not only as a discipline of discovery, but as a tool for accountability, one that can support healthier communities and more sustainable industries. Through leadership, research, and community projects, I have learned the importance of using education with intention. I am incredibly grateful to be a Lester B. Pearson International Scholar, and I hope my journey encourages younger students to believe that curiosity, persistence, and purpose can open doors far beyond what they imagine. 

Jai Nirav Patel 

Latymer Upper School
United Kingdom 

Faculty of Arts and Science, St. Michael’s College, Studies in Rotman Commerce 

Hi, my name is Jai.  

Some of my earliest memories of India are visiting my grandfather’s village, where daily life looked very different from the cities I was used to growing up in. Those visits gave me my first glimpse of how opportunity can vary depending on where someone begins their life. Growing up between the United States and the United Kingdom further exposed me to diverse communities and perspectives, encouraging me to think about how individuals and the systems around them shape opportunity. I have always loved the sciences, particularly biology and chemistry, because they offer a way to understand how the world works. However, my time in hospitals showed me that outcomes are shaped not only by science, but also by people’s circumstances. Seeing how access to education, resources, and support influences opportunity made me increasingly aware of the privilege I had compared to many others.  

Working in hospitals and volunteering as a tutor has deepened my understanding of the inequalities that exist within society. These experiences encouraged me to think more critically about how systems such as healthcare, education, and economics can either widen or close these gaps.  

Rowing has also played a significant role in shaping who I am. Competing nationally has strengthened my discipline and resilience while reinforcing the importance of teamwork and trust. When success depends on a crew rather than an individual, everyone must commit fully and trust that others will do the same. Through rowing and volunteering, I have learned that leadership often means supporting others and helping them succeed. These experiences taught me to seek opportunities to grow as a leader. Participating in the Global Youth Leadership Summit allowed me to collaborate with students from different backgrounds while exploring solutions to global challenges. Attending Tony Robbins’ Unleash the Power Within further encouraged me to think about mindset, responsibility, and taking initiative in shaping my own path.  

Being considered for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is both humbling and inspiring. This opportunity would allow me to learn from a diverse global community while developing the knowledge and leadership skills needed to address inequalities in healthcare and opportunity. I hope to use what I learn to contribute to systems that expand access, improve outcomes, and create opportunities for people regardless of where they begin their lives.

Kate Jane Rankin 

Somerset College
South Africa 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Victoria College, Studies in Humanities 

Hello! My name is Kate Rankin and I am from Cape Town, South Africa.  

For the past five years, I have attended Somerset College, where I was honoured to serve as a prefect, head of the library, deputy head of the “Jollers” hockey team and an active member of the Transformation and Diversity portfolio. Language and literature have always been a core part of who I am and helped me achieve ‘Top in the World’ for both Cambridge AS and A Level English Language. This love of words has grown into a wider fascination with historical linguistics, etymology and the way language shapes culture and identity. It is one of the many reasons why the University of Toronto appeals to me so deeply.

Although I have never been to Canada before, the opportunity to study there feels incredibly special — not only for all the obvious reasons, but also because it is the land of Lucy Maud Montgomery. Anyone who knows me knows the connection I feel toward Anne Shirley-Blythe. I first read Anne of Green Gables as an introverted eight-year-old and immediately felt seen. Her curiosity, imagination and way of finding wonder in the world resonated with me instantly. As I move into this next chapter of my life, I hope to carry those same qualities, kindness, quiet determination and a genuine love of learning, with me.

I hope this next stage of my life will be filled with travel, concerts (another reason why I am excited to live in Toronto), experiencing seasons changing, snow, libraries, both old and new books, long conversations, historical investigations and, most of all, wonderful friendships. Above everything, I feel deeply honoured to be considered alongside such an extraordinary group of Lester B. Pearson Scholars, and I am so excited to meet everyone and begin my own version of Anne of the Island. 

Christina Capada Samson 

The American School in Japan
Filipino student in Japan

Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design; Architectural Studies 

Hi everyone! My name is Christina Samson. I was born in Manila, Philippines and grew up in Tokyo, Japan. My identity has been shaped by the intersection of these two worlds: the disciplined technological advancement of Japan and the vibrant yet vulnerable landscapes of the Philippines. This perspective has led me to see architecture not just as the design of buildings, but as a way of creating for others, bridging progress with preservation and innovation with care. I have applied this lens in my capstone projects by designing a sustainable international school for diverse learners and developing flood-resilient housing prototypes for vulnerable communities in the Philippines.

Beyond architecture, my commitment to serving others has been shaped most meaningfully through community engagement. Through leading Hands On Tokyo’s Youth Impact, serving as NHS Vice President, and volunteering as a mentor and student helper in the elementary school, I organized community events for refugee groups, taught English to Japanese children with disabilities, and supported younger students in their after-school activities. These experiences taught me how to listen, adapt, and respond to different needs, reinforcing my belief that meaningful impact begins with empathy and a genuine understanding of the people we serve.

I am honored to join the University of Toronto community as a Pearson Scholar and grateful for the opportunity to continue exploring architecture as a way of creating for others. I hope to study the intersection of resilient infrastructure and environmental stewardship, with the goal of designing spaces that strengthen communities and the planet. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing volleyball, working on hands-on projects (ask me about my sculptures and 3D art!) and learning guitar. I look forward to meeting everyone!

María José Sepúlveda Calle 

Colegio Agustiniano Nuestra Señora Del Buen Consejo
Panama 

University of Toronto Mississauga, Studies in Life Sciences 

Hi! My name is María, and I’m from Chitré, a small city in Panama. I’ve always loved trying to understand how things work and creating new solutions, which has led me to be involved in many research projects, most of them related to biotechnology — a field I’m deeply passionate about.  

One of my favorite experiences was creating Coral-Relief during a biotechnology hackathon, where my friends and I designed a genetic sequence to help address coral bleaching by modifying the algae responsible for giving corals their color.  

In high school, I was also a founding member of my school’s remote sensing club, where we became the first group of high school students in Latin America to receive formal remote sensing training. As the club grew, I became a mentor to other students, helping them understand how to use satellite imagery from NASA and Copernicus to assess climate and urban related issues in our community and country, often presenting our research to local authorities.

I also had the opportunity to present some of my work during a plenary session at the Esri User Conference in San Diego last July in front of more than 20,000 people, which was truly mind-blowing.

Beyond academics, I love playing tennis, baking all sorts of things, painting, going on hikes, spending time at the beach, and volunteering through my local Rotary Interact group. I also love meeting new people, so feel free to reach out or say hi if you see me around!

To everyone who has supported me throughout my journey to UofT, including God, my family, my friends, my teachers, my high school principal, and so many others, thank you. I would not have made it here without all of you.

Being a 2026 Lester B. Pearson Scholar is an incredible honor, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to study a field I'm passionate about at the University of Toronto. It is truly a dream come true, and I am committed to making the most of this experience. I look forward to meeting you all this fall! 

Shayaan Ali Siddiqui 

Karachi Grammar School
Pakistan 

University of Toronto Mississauga, Studies in Chemical and Physical Sciences 

Hello! My name is Shayaan, and I believe that physics truly lives in the space between a perfect equation and a messy reality. Inspired by Richard Feynman’s call for "intellectual honesty," I approach STEM not just as a set of theories, but as a discipline that must account for every inconvenient variable. This philosophy drove me to work with STEM centers across Karachi, developing curricula for primary and elementary schools that bridge the gap between textbook physics and real-world practice.  

As an A-Level student at Karachi Grammar School and Vice President of our STEM Society, I’ve had the privilege of organizing one of Pakistan’s largest student-led Olympiads, KGSO, fostering a culture of curiosity and rigor in my community. When I’m not in the lab or leading a society, you can find me cycling through the streets of my city, learning every detail and pothole of my hometown to stay connected to the environment I hope to improve.  

As I begin my journey at the University of Toronto as a Pearson Scholar, I am eager to combine analytical rigor with practical innovation to solve the "inconvenient" challenges of our global future! 

Azimbek Toktogaziev 

Hussain Karasaev High School
Kyrgyzstan 

University of Toronto Mississauga, Studies in Computer Science 

"Acquiring knowledge is like digging a well with a needle." — Kyrgyz Proverb

Hello everyone! My name is Azimbek, and I'm from Kyrgyzstan — and if you've never heard of it, that's kind of exactly why I do what I do.

My core principle has always been simple: if something doesn't exist — you create it. Seeing the lack of quality education resources in my country, I taught myself Unity and built an educational app that teaches English through Kyrgyz — one of the first of its kind in my country, now with over 10,000 downloads. Now I'm taking it further, building a coding education app on the same concept, because English shouldn't be the only door we open. This led me to found Knowledge Without Borders, a non-profit where I teach English to students completely free of charge, and to work as an editor on a teachers' guidebook. I truly believe that technology is most powerful when it opens doors for people who didn't know a door existed.  

Beyond tech and education, I enjoy football, calisthenics, and chess — yes, all three, somehow. I also spend probably too much time exploring ideas in computer science, AI, and psychology, because understanding the human mind, I'm realizing, might be just as important as building the tools that serve it.  

For me, being a Pearson Scholar is an incredible honor and an acknowledgement of everyone who believed in me before I fully believed in myself — my family, mentors, teachers, and friends who taught me the importance of lifting others as we climb. I carry this opportunity with deep gratitude and responsibility. My whole life, I've been trying to make the well a little easier to dig. And at the University of Toronto, I intend to honor it the only way I know: by digging, and bringing others along with me.

Khôi Trần  

Canadian International School
Vietnam 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Woodsworth College, Studies in Life Sciences 

Hi everyone! My name is Khoi Tran, and I am from Vietnam. I am incredibly humbled and grateful to join the 2026 cohort of Lester B. Pearson Scholars at U of T.  

I grew up in the rural heartlands of Vung Tau, Ben Tre, and the bustling, energetic city of Saigon. Moving back and forth between those places made me acutely aware, from a young age, of how uneven access to opportunity can be. In many places, being able to access safe bridges to go to school or read books can significantly influence a child’s educational trajectory.  

This understanding fueled my interest in creating initiatives in the Mekong Delta to provide resources to Indigenous and ethnic minority communities. My first formative experience with human aid was an NGO I started in Grade 9 named Bridging the Gap. Our initiative sells handmade soap to fund physical bridges that connect rural areas to schools and clinics, enabling over 190,000 crossings annually.  

To democratize educational resources, I also founded My Egret’s Delivery Service, inspired after the character Kiki from Kiki’s Delivery Service and her kind and empathetic nature. I have led a team of similarly compassionate volunteers from across 50 countries, united by the goal of helping over 11 ethnic groups access books, staples, necessities, etc.  

As I plan to study the life sciences at the U of T, I hope to contribute to efforts that break existing glass ceilings in research places to integrate perspectives from minority groups. I believe that humanistic values and lived experiences have a place in science, and aim to bring my own experiences into the field as well. This leads me to my goal as a researcher: to help dissolve the artificial boundaries between research and advocacy/education.  

Additionally, one of my most important hobbies is writing. I’ve written and published numerous pieces of poetry and prose, with works featured and distributed across the country in museums, schools, and libraries. Recently, I had the honor of becoming a Foyle Young Poet for my poem Tenderly and connected with writers from all walks of life during literary roundtables. Moving ahead, I aim to become a writer-biologist who embraces the arts as a lifelong pursuit.

Iroha Uda 

New School, International School of Georgia
Japanese student in Georgia 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Innis College, Studies in Life Sciences 

Jebale Ko! Gamarjoba! Or maybe something more familiar: Konnichiwa, my name is Iroha!  

Born in Japan and growing up in Zimbabwe, Ghana, Uganda, and now Georgia meant I had no simple answer for where ‘home’ was.  

But in Uganda, my passion and curiosity found a home in biology. Or, if we want to be really specific, in the analysis of the genes of naked mole rats for a Southern and Eastern African interschool competition (I’d advise refraining from looking them up).  

I might have moved on to more normal-looking organisms, but I still chase the same feeling I got when I finally figured out how the mole rat's genes worked. I felt it when I experimented with duckweed, measuring how much pharmaceuticals it could absorb in my year-long research project. I felt it when I learned how to prepare blood samples for DNA analysis at a research clinic. But I also find that feeling when I read a book, biology-related or otherwise, when I take a pastry out of the oven, and when I press the shutter button on my camera.  

Though traveling across the world may not be new to me, the learning, ideas, and opportunities I’ll exchange with my peers and fellow Pearson scholars will be, and I hope to feel that thrill of discovery together! And I know that for the next 4 years, I’ll feel comfortable with saying U of T Life Sciences is my home.

Bilal Akram Virk 

International School Lahore – Pine Avenue Campus
Pakistan 

University of Toronto Scarborough, Co-op Mathematics 

Hi! My name is Bilal Akram Virk, and I’m from Lahore, Pakistan. I will be joining the University of Toronto Scarborough campus as a Mathematics co-op student, and I am deeply honoured to do so as a Lester B. Pearson Scholar.

I have always been drawn to systems. As a child, I was curious why small changes could shift entire outcomes. That instinct matured through representing my school and country at the International Tournament of Young Mathematicians and the International Earth Science Olympiad, where solutions had to withstand questioning. At the Real World Design Challenge, I worked on engineering models under real-world constraints, where adjusting one variable reshaped the entire system. Those experiences taught me disciplined reasoning and structural thinking.

Beyond competitions, I served as Head Boy of the International School Lahore - Pine Avenue, leading over 2,000 students across more than 30 societies. Leadership meant designing processes that worked beyond personalities, ensuring initiatives sustained momentum rather than fading after initial enthusiasm.

My academic interests sit at the intersection of mathematics and computer science, applied to real systems. Through my project Pani Lab, I co-developed solar-powered water filtration prototypes tested in village communities, refining designs based on user feedback and environmental constraints. With Project Safakaar, I worked on data-driven waste management solutions aimed at improving collection efficiency and community reporting. In both projects, mathematics informed modelling, optimisation, and decision-making.

I am also deeply interested in history and policy. My research on land law in Gilgit-Baltistan examined how statutory reforms interact with customary governance systems, analysing how legal frameworks shape communities. That work reinforced my belief that formal models, whether legal, environmental, or financial, must reflect lived realities.

Looking ahead, I am particularly interested in quantitative finance and modelling uncertainty in economic systems. Mathematics provides structure. Computation provides scale. Economics introduces incentives and behavior. The foundation remains the same.

Outside academics, I am a devoted Real Madrid supporter who believes comebacks are statistically inevitable. I follow Formula One closely, often defending Max Verstappen’s strategy with more data than necessary, and I will always ask for one more FIFA rematch.

Receiving the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is both an honour and a responsibility. I look forward to contributing curiosity and purpose to the U of T community! 

Lorena Casey Waihiga 

Kigali International Community School
Kenyan student in Rwanda 

University of Toronto Scarborough; Co-op Arts: Social Sciences & Humanities 

Hello, my name is Lorena Casey!

I am from Kenya, but I’ve spent most of my life living across various countries in Africa, including Zimbabwe, Egypt, Niger, and now Rwanda. My experiences in these countries have allowed me to develop a deep appreciation for exploring new cultures and places, while also increasing my awareness of the different contexts, challenges, and limitations people face in their daily lives. These experiences ultimately fueled my interest in policy and in contributing to changes that can better support people in a variety of situations. During my time in high school, I have dedicated myself to finding ways to address societal challenges, particularly through leading the Interact Club at my school. I am deeply honored to have been selected as a Pearson Scholar, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to pursue an education that will prepare me to continue working toward these goals.

Beyond organizing and executing events through the Student Council, I enjoy dancing, choreographing, theater, and honestly almost all forms of performance arts. In my free time I enjoy playing tennis and the clarinet.  

I am very grateful to the individuals who supported me throughout my high school journey like my teachers and family members, especially my mom, who has always walked this journey alongside me.  

Grateful is an understatement for how blessed I feel to have the opportunity to join a community of such passionate individuals who are committed to contributing positively to the world. I know that I will be inspired, and I look forward to learning about the unique paths that people are pursuing.

Haoxuan Wang 

The American School Foundation of Guadalajara
Chinese student in Mexico 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Trinity College, Studies in Computer Science 

¡Hola a todos! My name is Haoxuan, but I go by Ciro, and I come from Guadalajara, Mexico. As the son of Chinese immigrants in Mexico, I have grown up navigating two distinct cultures that shape the way I see the world. Growing up in this manner has encouraged me to explore new cultures and embrace the different ways in which people think.

During high school, I served as the Software Captain for FTC Team 16255, Minerva Warriors; last season, our team became the number one-ranked team in Mexico and later represented the country at the Maryland Tech Invitational. I also love building personal projects in music technology, namely using machine learning and signal processing to analyze guitar chords to facilitate my learning. Since I was a child, I’ve been an avid player of the piano and electric guitar (shoutout to Franz Liszt), and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to perform on stage with my band, Wrec’d. Thank you to my parents and all of my friends who have supported me and encouraged me to explore my passions. I truly appreciate you all.

As I begin this new chapter in my life as a Pearson Scholar, I’m beyond excited to meet people from different backgrounds, and I look forward to learning from the multicultural community at the University of Toronto! 

Kornelia Weronika Wieczorek 

III Liceum Ogólnoksztalcace Im. Marynarki Wojennej Rp
Poland 

Faculty of Arts and Science, Trinity College, Studies in Life Sciences 

Hi! My name is Kornelia, and I am a 17-year-old student in the IB Diploma Programme in Gdynia, Poland - nearly 7,000 kilometers away from Toronto.

For as long as I can remember, I have been deeply fascinated by science. What began as simple experiments at home gradually evolved into a passion shaped by visits to professional laboratories and hands-on research experiences. Over time, I discovered that neuroscience is the field that truly captivates me, and it is the area I am most eager to explore further at the University of Toronto.

My scientific journey has led me to participate in international competitions, including the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, where I had the honor of representing my country as the youngest participant in its history. Currently, I am particularly interested in the intersection of innovation and medicine, with a long-term goal of becoming a physician. Within neuroscience, I am especially drawn to the potential of stem cells in Parkinson’s disease treatment and the development of Deep Brain Stimulation techniques. Through research experiences in institutions both in Poland and abroad, I have developed the skills and curiosity that I am excited to bring to future projects in Toronto.

Beyond academics, I have been fortunate to receive recognition such as the Silver Polish Cross of Merit and being named TIME Girl of the Year, which even led to the creation of my own LEGO figure. However, what matters most to me is using my platform to inspire others. As someone from an underprivileged background with no family history in science, I am passionate about showing that determination and curiosity can overcome barriers. I actively share my story at conferences, including TEDx Warsaw Women, world’s biggest TEDx Women event, encouraging young people, especially girls, to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.

Outside of science, I enjoy sports and baking, and I train dog agility, where I became a World Champion. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to become a Lester B. Pearson Scholar, as it brings me one step closer to achieving my dreams and contributing meaningfully to the field of neuroscience. See you in Toronto <333 

Winfeyling Kanayla Winarso 

SMA Santa Theresia
Indonesia 

University of Toronto Mississauga, Studies in Life Sciences 

Halo everyone! My name is Fey, and I’m from Jakarta, Indonesia.

Growing up in such an energetic and fast-paced city managed to spark my curiosity early on, which deepened when I spent four formative years in Australia at a young age. Since then, I've learned to accept the unfamiliar with excitement and open arms, which has shaped my academic and personal interests. I have always loved dance, and through it I began to appreciate the human body and its incredible capabilities, not only as something that allows us to live, play, and experience the world, but also as a system capable of healing and restoring itself when we are sick or injured. As a result, I went on to compete in biology Olympiads, contribute to research projects, and volunteer at health screenings at my church. These experiences have proved to me that growth comes from curiosity, a mindset I'm eager to carry as I continue learning at UTM.