“University wasn’t just a dream anymore”

Kamil Kanji's path to higher education was anything but straightforward — his dreams were clouded by financial uncertainty.

"I grew up in pretty underprivileged areas. It was a major reality for me and my family that university wasn't super in the cards for me," says Kamil. "I applied to UBC on a whim, hoping that I would — maybe — get some assistance or funding to be able to attend."

He did.

Thanks to the Centennial Scholars Entrance Award, Kamil is now thriving at UBC, pursuing his passion for policy making, global communities — and making a difference. The moment he learned he received the award is still vivid.

"I was alone in the car. My mom was inside Superstore, and I got the phone call," says Kamil. "I burst into tears because it meant that something I dreamed about for a long time was finally going to happen.

"University wasn't just a dream anymore."

Kamil has hit the ground running — and his academic plans are ambitious. Currently enrolled in the Faculty of Arts, he is working towards an honours degree in political science focusing on international relations.

His ultimate goal? To serve on the Supreme Court of Canada.

"I saw UBC as a gateway to not only learn what I need to learn in relation to the discipline but also build the relationships and the connections that would help to propel and extend that career journey."

Kamil has fully immersed himself in campus life, particularly through his involvement with the Alma Mater Society (AMS), UBC's student union.

"Up until May 1, 2024, I was the Vice President, Academic and University Affairs at the AMS, responsible for advocating student priorities to the university," says Kamil. "The AMS is the largest student union in the country, a $30 million nonprofit organization. Essentially, I had the opportunity to be a C-suite executive at the age of 21, which is pretty unreal."

Since completing his term at the AMS, Kamil has been elected to the UBC Board of Governors. His passion for advocacy and leadership is deeply rooted in Kamil's upbringing, where he was "growing up in places where you're not expected to do anything more — because your day-to-day is just survival."

"My family and I were struggling to make ends meet," says Kamil. "Other people showing that they believe in me is part of what has driven me to succeed in my academic career and extracurricular life."

Kamil's donor support has enabled him to attend university and engage in extracurricular activities that enrich his UBC experience. He finds this tremendously affirming and validating.

"I'm so happy and so glad that I've got to a place now where there's the generosity of so many people who have the belief and the confidence in me to do something with my life."

Kamil's story is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of donor-funded scholarships for students — and how there's always a need for more. He has words of gratitude to those who make it all possible.

"Thank you! There are people who will go on to do amazing things in the world because of the generosity of donors.

"I wouldn't be standing here without that support."

Other exceptional students like Kamil could use your support. Consider giving to the FORWARD for Students Fund to make their dreams come true.