Arviat student wins TD post-secondary scholarship

Innosar Issakiark picks up some tips for recording from Eric Anoee Jr.. Issakiark and the other members of the Arviat Film Society were interviewing youth on their perspectives on bullying during one of many evening workshops. (FILE PHOTO)

(Updated, 3 p.m.)

Innosar Issakiark, a student at John Arnalukjuak High School in Arviat, who has been active in the Arviat Film Society, is among 20 students across Canada who will receive a Toronto Dominion scholarship for community leadership that’s valued at up to $70,000 per student.

Students who earned the prestigious scholarship demonstrated their dedication to various causes including education reform, poverty reduction plans, anti-bullying campaigns and gender equality, said a May 28 news release from TD.

“Allowing these students to continue their work by helping them with their post-secondary tuition is something that we’re very proud to do at TD,” says Teri Currie from the TD Bank Group. “Each and every one of them has already made a positive impact on their community and we believe they will continue play a significant role in social change and growth across Canada.”

Recipients of this year’s scholarships will be honoured at a June 6 ceremony in Toronto.

The scholarship includes up to $10,000 for tuition, $7,500 for living expenses per year. In addition, recipients are guaranteed summer employment at TD as well as mentorship and networking opportunities.

“Innosar is an artistic, talented young performer and volunteer in his community,” said Nunavut Premier Eva Aariak, also the territory’s minister of education, in a May 28 news release. “His commitment and leadership in addressing issues such as bullying, suicide and the importance of staying in school through his use of theatre, the performing arts and digital media is worthy of recognition and we are proud of his achievements.”