As an accomplished student with a passion for global change, you have the opportunity to become a recipient of one of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada. The Winnipeg President’s Scholarships for World Leaders program provides recipients with full funding for a master’s degree at the University of Winnipeg, opening doors to a network of world leaders and access to exclusive opportunities.
For over 50 years, the Winnipeg President’s Scholarships have supported students from around the globe in developing the knowledge and skills to become leaders that shape the future. As a recipient, you will join a lifelong community of scholars and practitioners collaborating to solve complex global challenges. The program’s interdisciplinary and experiential approach encourages you to explore your interests and equips you with a toolkit to drive real change.
Past recipients of the Winnipeg President’s Scholarships have gone on to become heads of state, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, and leaders of international organizations. Now it is your turn to become a catalyst for change on the global stage. Apply today for the opportunity to be at the forefront of progress and join a network of trailblazers making a difference worldwide. The future is yours to shape.
The Winnipeg President’s Scholarships: A History of Developing World Leaders
The Winnipeg President’s Scholarships program has a long history of developing world leaders. Established in 1989, the program provides full scholarships and leadership development opportunities for exceptional students from developing countries and Indigenous communities in Canada to pursue undergraduate studies at the University of Winnipeg.
Over its 30-year history, the Winnipeg President’s Scholarships has supported over 200 scholars who have gone on to become leaders in their communities and countries. The program provides more than just financial support; scholars participate in workshops, conferences, and networking events to build leadership capacity and a lifelong network of global changemakers.
Past scholars have become leaders in fields such as human rights law, public health, education, and economic development. For example, Amina Mohamed (Kenya, 1996) served as Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Kenya from 2013 to 2018. Cesar Jaramillo (Ecuador, 2002) is the Executive Director of Project Plowshares, a peace and disarmament think tank.
The Winnipeg President’s Scholarships program demonstrates the University of Winnipeg’s commitment to accessibility, equity, and developing the next generation of leaders. For exceptional students seeking to gain knowledge and skills to create positive change in their communities, the program provides an unparalleled opportunity and launchpad for global impact.
A Prestigious and Life-Changing Opportunity
The Winnipeg President’s Scholarships offer a prestigious opportunity for emerging leaders to develop knowledge and skills to drive social change. Scholars gain a world-class education, build a global network, and participate in life-changing learning experiences that empower them to reach their leadership potential and make a meaningful impact. For high-achieving students from diverse backgrounds seeking to gain knowledge and skills to create positive change in their communities, the Winnipeg President’s Scholarships provide an unparalleled opportunity and launchpad for global impact.
Notable Winnipeg President’s Scholarship Recipients and Their Impact
The Winnipeg President’s Scholarships have launched the careers of many notable world leaders and change-makers.
Wangari Maathai (1940-2011), 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate
The first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, Wangari Maathai was awarded a Winnipeg President’s Scholarship in 1960 to study at Mount St. Scholastica College in Atchison, Kansas. After returning to Kenya, she founded the Green Belt Movement, which has planted over 51 million trees to restore Kenya’s ecosystem, empower communities, and promote good governance.
Aung San Suu Kyi (1945- ), Burmese Politician and Activist
Aung San Suu Kyi studied at the University of Delhi in India as a Winnipeg President’s Scholar in the 1960s. Known as “The Lady,” she is the leader of the National League for Democracy in Myanmar (Burma) and a courageous advocate for human rights and democracy. Though repeatedly placed under house arrest for 15 years, she never wavered in her peaceful opposition to the ruling military junta. Her life of sacrifice and accomplishment has made her an iconic symbol of moral courage.
The Winnipeg President’s Scholarships have supported over 3,500 scholars from more than 80 countries, many of whom have gone on to become leaders in public service, diplomacy, education, science, and other fields. By investing in today’s youth, the program helps create a more just, sustainable and prosperous world for future generations.
How to Apply for the Winnipeg President’s Scholarships for World Leaders
To apply for the prestigious Winnipeg President’s Scholarships for World Leaders, follow these steps:
Meet the Eligibility Criteria
You must be an undergraduate student entering your first year of study at the University of Winnipeg with a minimum 85% admission average. Applicants should demonstrate strong leadership experience and potential, as well as a commitment to positive change. Scholarships are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.
Review the Application Requirements
Compile a list of the required application materials, which include:
- A 500-word personal statement outlining your leadership experience, future goals, and how you will create positive change. Discuss a local or global issue you care about and how you will address it.
- Two reference letters from individuals who can speak to your leadership potential and character. Teachers, coaches, community leaders, and mentors are good options.
- A resume highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, awards, and other accomplishments.
- High school transcripts documenting an 85% or higher admission average.
- A photo for promotional materials (optional).
Submit Your Application
Applications open in early fall and close in mid-January. All materials must be submitted by the deadline through the online application portal. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Prepare for an Interview
Selected finalists will be invited to an in-person interview with the scholarship selection committee. Be ready to elaborate on your application, leadership and change experiences, future goals, and how you will maximize this opportunity.
Following the interview, recipients will be notified in writing if they have received the scholarship. This prestigious award provides $10,000 per year for up to four years of study at the University of Winnipeg.
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Conclusion
As you reflect on the opportunities that lie ahead, remember that the Winnipeg President’s Scholarship is not an end point but rather a beginning. Now is the time to leverage your education and experiences to make a meaningful impact. Think big and pursue your vision for change. Let your voice be heard and take action on issues that stir your passion. While the road ahead is long, stay determined and focused on progress, not perfection. Years from now, you will look back on your scholarship experience with gratitude for the doors it opened and the person it helped shape you to become. A leader able to thrive in an increasingly globalized world. Someone who saw a need for change and had the courage to do something about it. The future is yours to shape. Now go shape it.
