Investing in the Future: TELUS Gala Empowers Youth Education

In the heart of Toronto, the telus Centre for Performance and Learning will once again host the Together for Tomorrow Gala on June 12, 2025. This event, presented by TELUS, is more than just a fundraising gala; it is a beacon of hope for students facing financial barriers to post-secondary education. As education costs soar, 75 per cent of students find it hard to afford post-secondary education, and nearly one-third consider dropping out due to financial stress. The TELUS Friendly Future Foundation's signature gala aims to change this narrative by empowering socially-conscious students through the TELUS Student Bursary program.

The TELUS Student Bursary program, launched in 2023, has already provided bursaries to more than 1,000 students valued at over $4 million, across nine provinces and 93 different schools. This initiative is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to ensuring that all youth, regardless of their financial circumstances, have an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. The program's success is evident in the stories of its recipients, who exemplify strength and resilience while pursuing their post-secondary dreams and creating meaningful change in their communities.



The Together for Tomorrow Gala is not just about raising funds; it is about investing in the future leaders of our communities. All proceeds from the gala go directly to provide bursaries to deserving, socially-minded post-secondary students. Notably, 76 per cent of the TELUS Student Bursaries were awarded to equity-deserving candidates, and 50 per cent of the recipients are the first in their family to pursue post-secondary education in Canada. This focus on equity and inclusion is a key differentiator from other charitable foundations, ensuring that the program's impact is felt by those who need it the most.

The Foundation's approach to supporting students goes beyond financial aid. Recipients of the TELUS Student Bursary program receive wraparound support, including TELUS mobility and internet services, mental health support, and more. This holistic approach ensures that students stay connected and thrive throughout their studies. Several of these young leaders now serve as youth ambassadors on TELUS Community Boards, using their lived experience to guide grant funding decisions for local youth programs. This not only empowers the students but also ensures that the Foundation's funding is directed towards the most impactful programs.

The impact of the TELUS Student Bursary program is further validated by the testimonials of its recipients. Nebiyou Timotewos, a York University student and TELUS Student Bursary recipient, stated, "The bursary opened doors I never thought possible, enabling me to pursue my studies while launching high-impact community youth programs. Now that I am a TELUS Community Board member, I'm able to help guide community investments while amplifying youth voices. The program empowers students to become leaders of community change." This testimonial highlights the transformative impact of the bursary program on the recipients' lives and their ability to make a difference in their communities.

The Together for Tomorrow Gala, hosted by television personality Sangita Patel, will feature an exceptional lineup of Canadian talent, including performances by Arkells, Deborah Cox, and Steven Page, alongside culinary excellence from Top Chef Canada's Mark McEwan. Attendees will experience an extraordinary evening of entertainment and auction experiences, all in support of empowering the next generation of community leaders. Special thanks to our presenting sponsor TELUS, Gala Co-Chairs Jay McCauley and Christi Himmelheber, and the dedicated Gala Committee for making this remarkable event possible.

In conclusion, the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation's signature gala is more than just a fundraising event; it is an investment in the future of our communities. By empowering socially-conscious students through the TELUS Student Bursary program, the Foundation is ensuring that all youth, regardless of their financial circumstances, have an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. The Together for Tomorrow Gala is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to creating a friendlier future for all.

Ask Aime: What is the TELUS Student Bursary program, and how does it support post-secondary students facing financial barriers?