Graduating high school students across Dufferin County are encouraged to apply for the 2026 W. & M. Edelbrock Fund Bursary – a unique and impactful opportunity designed to help local students pursue their dreams through college, university, or skilled trades education.
Now entering its third year, the W. & M. Edelbrock Fund Bursary is one of the most generous bursary programs available to students in Dufferin County. Established as a donor-advised fund with the Dufferin Community Foundation in 2024, the program awards three bursaries of $3,125 annually, with the opportunity for renewal throughout a student’s academic or trades program.
In 2026, one bursary will again be awarded to a graduating student from each of Dufferin County’s three high schools:
- Westside Secondary School
- Orangeville District Secondary School
- Centre Dufferin District High School
Applications are open now, and you can APPLY TODAY!
The deadline to apply is May 29, 2026.
Supporting Students and Building Futures
The W. & M. Edelbrock Fund Bursary is intended to support students who demonstrate financial need and who are pursuing post-secondary education, whether through university, college, or skilled trades training. In addition to financial need, applicants are considered based on academic success or demonstrated initiative and aptitude within their chosen field of study.
Participation in school or community activities, along with lived experience with inequity or inequality, are also important considerations during the selection process.
The bursary can be used toward tuition, books, housing, meal plans, and other education-related expenses. One of the program’s most meaningful features is that it is renewable: students can receive support for each year of their original program, provided they remain enrolled, maintain a passing grade, and complete an annual application form.
Celebrating and Sharing Student Successes
Since the bursary launched in 2024, six remarkable students have been selected as recipients:
2024 Recipients
- Yamaan Awa
- Fredia (Faith) Mboe
- Jessica Skiffington
2025 Recipients
- Damien Bland-Bestward
- Jayden Purcell
- Keymar Lewis
As the program grows, so does its impact!
We recently caught up with several past recipients to hear how the bursary has supported them on their educational journeys so far.
Yamaan Awa
Carleton University, Mechanical Engineering
After graduating from Westside Secondary School in 2024, Yamaan began studying Mechanical Engineering at Carleton University and is now completing his second year at York University.
Reflecting on his first year experience, Yamaan shared:
“If I could describe my experience of first year university in one word, it would be adventurous. I started in a new place I had never been to, and while I was uncertain at first, I was excited to see where the journey would take me. I made new friends, built strong connections, and worked on projects that pushed me to develop both in school and on a personal level. I discovered new passions, gained confidence, and learned how to adapt to unfamiliar situations, making my first year an unforgettable experience.
“What helped me stay motivated throughout the year was knowing I had people in my community who supported me and believed in my potential. That’s why receiving the bursary meant so much to me. It was a reminder that others recognized what I can become and were invested in my success and future. That played a big role in keeping me focused and driven, especially during difficult moments, and gave me the confidence to keep striving toward my goals. Thank you for the opportunity!”
Damien Bland-Bestward
Sheridan College, Electrical Techniques
After graduating from Westside Secondary School in 2025, Damien worked while preparing to begin Sheridan College’s Electrical Techniques program in January 2026.
Upon completion of the eight-month program, he plans to continue into an apprenticeship – an exciting step toward a career in the skilled trades.
Fredia (Faith) Mboe
Georgian College, Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Following her graduation from Orangeville District Secondary School in 2024, Fredia began studying Nursing at Georgian College.
She shared how meaningful the bursary support was during her transition to college life:
“When I first learned I had been awarded the bursary, I was overwhelmed with excitement and relief, knowing how much it would significantly lighten my financial burdens.I can confidently say that the grant/bursary made a world of difference.”
Adjusting to life away from home came with many new responsibilities, but the bursary helped relieve financial pressures and allowed her to focus on her studies and enjoy the college experience. Fredia was especially grateful to learn that the bursary was renewable:
“Knowing that I have this support gives me the confidence to continue pursuing my educational goals. I truly appreciate the opportunity you have provided me, and I am thankful for the faith you have shown in me. I pray that your organization continues to thrive and positively impact the lives of many students like myself. Thank you once again for your generosity and support!”
Her hard work and leadership have already earned additional recognition. In October 2025, Fredia received the Afro-Caribbean Youth Award in Grey-Bruce County, presented by Bruce Power, in recognition of her leadership, community involvement, and academic integrity.
“I felt so humbled and grateful for such recognition. The award was a reminder to me that I can do whatever I put my mind to.”
Keymar Lewis
Carleton University, Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting)
Following his graduation from Centre Dufferin District High School in 2025, Keymar began studying Accounting in the Bachelor of Commerce program at Carleton University in Ottawa.
A few weeks into university life, he shared: “I really appreciate the continued support from the Dufferin Community Foundation; it means a lot to me and my family. My first weeks at Carleton have been exciting and a big adjustment from high school. I’m enjoying my courses in the Bachelor of Commerce program and starting to find my routine. It’s definitely a new challenge, but I’m motivated and looking forward to what’s ahead.”
Bursaries in Dufferin Country – Apply Today!
The W. & M. Edelbrock Fund Bursary continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local students by reducing financial barriers and encouraging young people to pursue their goals with confidence.
Graduating students from Westside Secondary School, Orangeville District Secondary School, and Centre Dufferin District High School are encouraged to apply before the May 29, 2026 deadline.
For more information and to apply, visit the Dufferin Community Foundation website.
