Scholarship invests in student’s future

A new Humber scholarship is offering Brian Kotoka a fresh start. Created for mature students from at-risk neighbourhoods in Toronto, the Montego Bay Achievers Scholarship was created for students enrolling for the first time in any Humber postsecondary program and who demonstrate financial need and the drive to overcome obstacles.

Kotoka faced many challenges during high school and often felt his teachers doubted his future success. But after finishing high school, Kotoka was determined to improve his life and decided on Humber’s Fitness and Health Promotion program. And then things began to change. Kotoka had found a program that interested him and in which he could succeed. Success came in yet another way when he was awarded the scholarship that was made possible with the generous support of Hurb Kumaasi. “It’s important to invest in students from at-risk communities who recognize that education may change their lives,” says Kumaasi. “When you help students from one community, you help strengthen all communities.” Though there is still a long road ahead, Kotoka focuses on keeping his A average and working towards his goals. And his advice to others? “Don’t settle. Work past your obstacles and realize there are opportunities and people who will help you.”

The John Frederick Seli Scholarship

Mr. Seli was a tall, quiet and modest gentleman who strived for excellence in his work as an Estimator and Purchasing Office Manager with Rouse & Man - a printing company that in its day set the industry standard for quality and professionalism in the production of brochures, annual reports and other corporate materials.

With a quiet and modest demeanor and a dry Irish wit he maintained a strong customer service focus. It was also these same characteristics that won over his future wife – herself working for a company that was a client of Rouse & Man.

Having experienced the challenges of the Depression years, education and lifelong learning were important to both Mr. Seli and his wife. Together they pursued their education through night school while continuing to work hard in their chosen careers.

After a 34-year career with Rouse & Man, Mr. Seli and his wife enjoyed retirement pursuing their hobbies and spending time with friends and family until his passing in February 2005 after a long illness.

Today, Mrs. Seli has chosen to establish The John Frederick Seli Scholarship at Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning on the suggestion of a family member and has chosen the School of Media Studies & Information Technology as its area of focus most closely correlates to Mr. Seli’s profession. It is her hope that this award will inspire students to persevere toward their educational goals while reducing financial obstacles they face along the way at the same time.