Cermaq helps First Nations students pursue bright futures

Keenan Andrew is getting closer to finally starting the career he’s been working towards for years, thanks in part to a scholarship from Cermaq Canada. (pictured) Keenan Andrew with his partner and their new baby.

Andrew, a member of the Ahousaht First Nation, is a student at the University of Victoria working on his Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Youth Care. When he graduates, he hopes to work helping aboriginal children.

“It is a great honour to accept the Cermaq Post-Secondary Scholarship Award. Once again, I would like to extend a heartfelt klecko klecko (thank you) from my family to you and everyone at Cermaq,” Andrew said.

Cermaq Canada helps students from Ahousaht every year through a scholarship program for Ahousaht members pursuing post-secondary education. The company works with the Ahousaht Education Authority. This past year, Cermaq provided 16 students with scholarships, allowing them to pursue a wide variety of education in fields including nursing, business, arts, and tourism.

The company’s scholarship program has been ongoing for several years and it’s been a great opportunity to help young people succeed, said a company spokesperson.

“Cermaq has helped Andrew in the past during his education, and it’s wonderful for us to have been able to follow along with him as he pursues his dreams of working full-time helping people,” said Laurie Jensen, Cermaq Canada’s Director of Communications and Corporate Sustainability. “It’s so meaningful to be able to help Andrew and so many other students follow their chosen paths and we’re grateful to have been able to help them on their journeys.”

Cermaq sponsors many individuals, teams, and programs all around Vancouver Island. If you or your organization would like to apply for sponsorship, please email contact.canada@cermaq.com or visit the “Partnerships” page on our Cermaq.ca website to download an application form.