Celebrating 27 Years of Academic Excellence and Community Service: ACCPI's Inspiring Legacy
In a heartwarming celebration of academic excellence and unwavering community service, the 27th anniversary of the African Caribbean Cultural Potpourri Inc (ACCPI) unfolded in all its grandeur. This year's awards ceremony, held at the elegant Sheraton Hotel, saw 16 of Hamilton's most promising young individuals recognized for their remarkable achievements in both academia and community service. The event was not only a testament to the enduring legacy of ACCPI but also a momentous occasion to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these dedicated youth.
The ACCPI, a non-profit organization, was founded in 1986 by the late Eleanor Wilthshire-Rodney, a devoted teacher in the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board. Eleanor was a true visionary, driven by an indomitable spirit, an unyielding determination, and a passion for community service. Her legacy lives on through ACCPI, a beacon of hope and opportunity for youth of African and Caribbean heritage.
"Lifting by Giving": A Legacy of Empowerment
From its inception, ACCPI has been on a relentless mission to empower the youth within the African and Caribbean communities. Through its annual scholarship awards, the organization strives to uphold the standard of excellence, epitomized by its young beneficiaries, and envisions a future rich with opportunities for these promising individuals.
This year, there were 16 recipients, but over the years, ACCPI has proudly celebrated the achievements of more than 300 award recipients who have carved their own path through professional achievement, transformative leadership, and uplifting their local communities. Their achievements are a testament to the power of "lifting by giving" – a philosophy ACCPI holds dear.
This year's winners received scholarships ranging from $1,250 to $3,000 each. It's worth noting that 9 of the 16 well-deserved recipients are from our very own Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board (HWCDSB), and we couldn't be prouder of their accomplishments.
Director of Education Dave Hansen's Inspiring Words
As Director of Education Dave Hansen remarked, "As I flipped through the program just now, one cannot help but be overwhelmed by the hours and hours and hours of selfless giving through volunteerism that each of you have provided in our schools and in our community."
He continued, "We live in a world that too often tells us that the focus is on 'I' – what’s in it for me. You have answered clearly that the world you live in and that you will foster is focused on 'We.'"
“Be very proud of this recognition of excellence and achievement, but equally continue to accept the challenge to be examples to others and, through your example, be builders and transformers of our community and our world. Thank you for your inspiration and for being such powerful signs of hope to all of us.”
Kennishia Boahene's Alumni and ACCPI President Perspective
Kennishia Boahene, a past recipient of the ACCPI scholarship and the President of ACCPI, shared her thoughts: "As a past recipient myself, I am honored to be among many alumni who can attest to the impact of ACCPI in their lives. I look forward to the extraordinary heights that ACCPI will continue to reach in the years to come, and the lives that will continue to be empowered by the work of this organization."
Learn More About Our Exceptional Scholarship Recipients
Atteyla Barichello-Herrera: Compassionate Nursing Aspiration
Atteyla Barichello-Herrera, a graduate of Cathedral High School, is a dedicated student with a deep desire to help others. Her career ambition is to become a nurse, inspired by both excellent and challenging healthcare experiences. Currently attending McMaster University, she's on track for a degree in Nursing, poised to be an extraordinary nurse.
Nokutenda Nyamande: Advocating for Well-being
Nokutenda Nyamande, another graduate of Cathedral High School, is known for her honesty, sincerity, and a desire to make a difference in people's lives. She's pursuing a degree in Nursing at MacEwan University, where her compassion and dedication will shine.
Kyla Momanyi: Uncovering History's Richness
Kyla Momanyi, a graduate of Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School, is passionate about history, particularly ancient African history. Her diligence and resourcefulness shine as she pursues a degree in History and Humanities at Carleton University.
Aisha Agnes Chademanah: Exceptional Leader in Wildlife Conservation
Aisha Agnes Chademanah, a graduate of St. Jean de Brebeuf Catholic Secondary School, is pursuing studies in Wildlife Biology and Conservation at the University of Guelph. She's an exceptional leader with remarkable interpersonal skills.
Brianna Slowley: Dedication to Community Service and Child Social Work
Brianna Slowley, a graduate of Cathedral High School, is passionate about making positive changes in her community. Currently at McMaster University, she's on the path to becoming a child social worker.
Opemipo Chidubem Oluwasola: Advocating for Youth and Public Health
Opemipo Chidubem Oluwasola, a graduate from Bishop Tonnos Catholic Secondary School, served as a Student Trustee for the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, advocating for student voice. Now at the University of Waterloo, he's pursuing a career in public health.
Agapa Coombs: Academic Excellence and Community Commitment
Agapa Coombs, a graduate of St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary School, excels academically and is deeply committed to community service. Now studying Mechanical Engineering at the University of Waterloo, he aims to apply his knowledge to improve the quality of life through science. Agapa embodies the power of academic excellence and a heart dedicated to positive change.
Coralie Muco: Scholar, Athlete, and Future Neuroscientist
Coralie Muco, a graduate of Bishop Tonnos Catholic Secondary School, is an exceptional student and athlete. She's now at McMaster University, specializing in Neuroscience.
Alice Okpere: Advocate for Student Voice and Aspiring Legal Luminary
Alice Okpere, a graduate of St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School, served as a Student Trustee for the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board. Now at the University of Toronto, she's pursuing a degree in Forensic Science with aspirations to make a difference in the field of law.
These remarkable young scholars have demonstrated not only academic excellence but also an unwavering commitment to serving their communities. The ACCPI Scholarship Awards continue to inspire and uplift the aspirations of these promising individuals. With dreams set and hearts full of determination, they are poised to make a profound impact on their communities and beyond.