2024 Childhood Cancer Canada STEM Biomedical Survivor Scholarship

At Childhood Cancer Canada, we believe in nurturing the potential of every childhood cancer survivor—not only through research and support programs but also by investing in their future. That’s why we’re proud to partner with STEM Biomedical to support the educational dreams of young survivors pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

In 2024, three exceptional Canadian students were selected as recipients of the Childhood Cancer Canada STEM Biomedical STEM Scholarship. Each student was awarded $5,000 in recognition of their academic excellence, community involvement, and inspiring determination to thrive beyond cancer. Their journeys are a testament to the power of perseverance and the promise of a brighter future.

This program would not be possible without the generosity of our corporate sponsors and individual donors, whose contributions help make these dreams a reality. We’re thrilled to introduce this year’s recipients and share their powerful stories below.

2024 STEM Scholarship Recipients

Rania El Ghayour
“At the age of 13, my life was forever changed when I was diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. After only six months of remission, I faced a relapse. These dark moments shaped my determination and resilience. During my third year of high school, I took classes in the hospital, refusing to let cancer deprive me of my education. Every day was a battle, but also an opportunity to grow and get closer to my dreams.” Rania is now studying biochemistry and molecular medicine at Université de Montréal, pursuing my dream of becoming a physician-researcher in oncology. Rania’s research pursuits have given her a unique perspective: “My unique journey allows me to see both sides: that of the patient and that of the researcher. This is why I am so passionate about STEM. Science is not just about discovery; it’s about applying knowledge to make a real difference in the world. I am deeply committed to continuing my education and research in oncology, with the hope of one day developing innovative cancer treatments that offer hope and healing to those who need it most.”

Morgan Huberty

“My initial interest in STEM subjects developed during my childhood battle with leukemia. I can vividly recall late nights on hospital beds, surrounded by the lights and whirrs of the strange, intriguing machines around me. These experiences, combined with the unwavering dedication of the medical professionals who cared for me while I was ill, fostered within me a profound respect for the power of science and technology to improve lives.” Morgan is pursuing a degree in computer engineering at Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering. He hopes to one day apply what he learns to improve the lives of cancer patients. “My educational path is rooted in a passion for innovation, problem-solving, and cutting-edge research. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences, I am gaining the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving field of computer engineering. My specialization in Artificial Intelligence allows me to explore the intersection of technology and human health, with a particular focus on leveraging AI to advance cancer research and improve patient outcomes.”

Renessa Gomes

“Apart from being a scientist, I am also a cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with Wilms’ tumor at the age of one. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to pursue my dreams of being a scientist so freely. I would not have been here if it weren’t for the tremendous perseverance of my family, advocating for my health as a baby girl, and for the doctors that listened to my parents and took an interest in my case. I am following my dream upon the shoulders of many heroes in my cancer journey.” Renessa is a graduate student at the University of British Columbia where she is actively involved in cancer research. “When I was very young, ‘cancer’ felt like a taboo word that my parents did not want to address. This became the main reason that I took an interest in STEM to begin with. My relationship with cancer changed completely when I decided I wanted to be a part of the solution. The curiosity I had about cancer as a child transformed into a genuine motivation to pursue an education in cancer biology. Today, the word cancer represents my motivation and my purpose, and I hope to make a real difference.”

The Childhood Cancer Canada Survivor Scholarship Program will be accepting applications for the 2025/2026 school year commencing on March 1, 2025 and all applications must be received by April 30th at 11:59 p.m. for consideration.

If you are interested in becoming a corporate sponsor, please reach out to us at [email protected].