Meet the 2024 Northern Futures Scholarship recipients.
Bright minds, strong roots.
We are proud to introduce the 2024 Northern Futures Scholarship recipients—six exceptional students who reflect the strength, resilience, and leadership found across the North. Each year, this scholarship program, which has been providing support since 2002, awards scholarships to shortlisted students from our operating area, with a focus on supporting Indigenous students. This year’s recipients come from Whitehorse, Fort McPherson, and Yellowknife, each with a unique story that ties their academic journey to the heart of their northern roots.
At the core of each recipient’s story is a deep connection to the North—its people, communities, and way of life. These students are not only excelling in their studies but also setting a powerful example for future generations. By supporting these young leaders, Northwestel is investing in the future of the North, empowering them to continue their education, build leadership skills, and contribute to the development of their communities.
In addition to the financial support provided, recipients may have the opportunity to join Northwestel as summer students or potentially start a full-time career with the company upon graduation. This year’s recipients, representing a range of disciplines, are a testament to the vast potential within northern communities.
Zarah Elias
2nd year in Business at Yukon University
"Receiving this scholarship has been an incredible motivation for me to succeed in my studies. The recognition and support will undoubtedly drive me to achieve even greater success in the future."
- On the land and in the water - Weekends are spent connecting with nature through traditional activities like snaring, fishing, and gathering medicine.
- Northern comfort with a twist - A fan of creative snacks, blending Pringles with cream cheese and grilling bacon and ham into sandwiches.
- Crafting culture - Passionate about traditional Gwich'in sewing, creating beautiful handmade earrings, moccasins, and fur mitts.
- Mentor of tomorrow - Driven to use her education to inspire and lead the next generation, with a focus on supporting her Mackenzie Delta community.
Langxin Li
3rd year in Computer Science at the University of Toronto
"This scholarship motivates me to continue excelling in my academic journey. I am honored and grateful for the support from my community, and I hope to make a meaningful contribution to the Yukon's technological landscape."
- Morning brews and culinary creations - Weekends start with a relaxing cup of coffee, enjoying the view, followed by cooking and baking with friends.
- Hotpot Harmony - Loves adding coriander to hotpots, even though many people dislike its strong smell.
- From Whitehorse to digital worlds - Originally from China, Langxin moved to Whitehorse at 15 and now pursues computer science while indulging in cooking, digital art, and singing.
- Engineering a future in tech - Driven by a love for math and problem-solving, Langxin aspires to become a leading machine learning engineer, with a passion for continuous learning and innovation.
Robulack Cole
3rd year in Engineering at the University of British Columbia Okanagan
"This scholarship allows me to focus on my studies and fully engage in opportunities that help me excel in the field of engineering. It represents not just financial relief but a recognition of my dedication and hard work."
- Workouts and Okanagan views - Weekends are best spent at the gym or relaxing by Okanagan Lake with friends, enjoying sports or college life in Kelowna.
- Pasta with a twist - A surprising favorite is pesto pasta with soft-boiled eggs, a satisfying comfort meal discovered during late-night study sessions.
- Active living, community connections - Originally from Whitehorse, Robulack is passionate about staying active through basketball, participating in campus clubs, and connecting with the student community.
- Engineering the future - What started as a fluke turned into a passion for problem-solving and innovation, driving a desire to combine technical skills with business insight through an MBA.
Elaine Cronk
3rd year in Civil Engineering at the University of Alberta.
"Winning this scholarship truly means the world to me, as it allows me to focus on my studies and future career with confidence and optimism."
- Easy days and iced coffee - Weekends are spent taking it easy, with trips to the gym, iced coffee in hand, followed by some cooking, baking, or cleaning for a relaxing recharge.
- Salmon lover’s delight - An indulgent favorite for special occasions: crackers, cream cheese, smoked salmon, and capers—a combination that’s hard to stop eating!
- From books to bikes - Born and raised in Yellowknife, Elaine enjoys motorcycling, baking, reading science fiction and fantasy, hitting the gym, and discovering new music.
- Inspired by legacy - Inspired by her father’s work on complex projects, Elaine is pursuing civil engineering to help solve challenging infrastructure problems in her community, with hopes of working on the Giant Mine Remediation project.
Kyla Ross
4th year in Human Resources at MacEwan University.
"This scholarship represents an opportunity to fulfill my educational goals while proving to myself and others that even though I’m from a small town in the North, I can achieve anything with the right support."
- Games, meals, and memories - Weekends are best spent with friends and family, playing Yahtzee or cards, sharing meals, and simply enjoying each other’s company.
- Ketchup chip twist - A unique favorite: Old Dutch ripple chips dipped in ketchup—an unexpected snack combo that Kyla’s friends find strange but delicious once they try it!
- From Inuvik to MacEwan - Born in Inuvik and raised in Fort McPherson, Kyla enjoys reading, embroidery, practicing cultural activities, and spending time with loved ones.
- Inspiration through mentorship - Working as a Career Development Officer and receiving guidance from a colleague inspired Kyla to pursue a career where she can support others, leading her to MacEwan University.
Gavin Craig
2nd year in Communications at Mount Royal University.
"Receiving this scholarship has given me the confidence to believe in my abilities and pursue my passion for sports broadcasting without the financial pressure."
- Weekends of balance - Craig spends weekends unwinding and blowing off steam with friends, while Sundays are reserved for catching up on studies and preparing for the week ahead.
- Frozen delights & chocolate cereal - Craig’s go-to unusual food combos? Frozen Uncrustables sandwiches and the occasional bowl of cereal with chocolate milk, for an extra flavor boost.
- From Yellowknife to Calgary - Originally from Yellowknife, Craig’s hobbies include playing hockey, hiking and taking nature photos, gaming, and building Legos—finding calm and focus on the creative process of constructing.
- Broadcasting the future - A lifelong love of sports led Craig to sports broadcasting, a field where he can combine his passion with his career, and he’s excited to continue learning more about this dynamic industry.
As we celebrate this year’s recipients, we also look toward the future, knowing that these young leaders are blazing trails for others to follow. Their dedication to both their studies and their communities will undoubtedly shape the future of the North for years to come.
Congratulations to all our 2024 Northern Futures Scholarship recipients!
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Common questions
How were the recipients chosen?
Recipients are selected based on academic merit, community involvement, leadership potential, and their connection to northern communities. A review committee carefully assesses each application to ensure the scholarships are awarded to individuals who will make meaningful contributions to the North.
Can I apply for the scholarship next year?
Yes! The Northern Futures Scholarship program is open for applications annually to students residing within our operating area. Feel free to apply if you qualify and are pursuing full-time post-secondary studies in a two-year diploma program or a four-year degree program in Engineering (Electrical/Electronic/Mechanical/Structural/Civil), Telecommunications/Electrical, Computer Sciences, Commerce/Businesses, Marketing/Communications and Human Resources. Our goal is to award at least three scholarships to Indigenous students. Next year's application period will begin in Spring 2025.
Where can I find information on past recipients?
To learn more about the journeys of our Northern Futures Scholarship recipients from the past three years, visit the following links:
2023 - Bright Lights of the North
