Applicants will be invited to apply for these awards and assistantships after they have been offered admission to the program.
The Malcolm X Scholarship is the culmination of the vision and perseverance of Majid Mirza and Paul Heidebrecht at Grebel’s Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement. After hearing a speaker from the Yaqeen Institute speak about Malcolm X, Mirza was inspired to carry forward the legacy.
“I believe Brother Malcolm is the embodiment of speaking truth to power,” said Mirza. “In addition, he was the voice of the voiceless.” As a result, Malcolm X or Malik Shabazz as he was known in the last chapter of his life, was a controversial figure. Mirza observed “that he only changed his opinion frequently because he was constantly striving for truth, and this is an infinite journey.”
“It is with immense pleasure and gratitude that we support the Malcolm X Peace and Conflict Studies Scholarship at Conrad Grebel University College, University of Waterloo,” wrote Ilyasah Shabazz, Co- Chairperson of The Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center. “There is no better time than now to launch this scholarship, which is established to recognize Master of Peace and Conflict Studies students who demonstrate a commitment to social justice, inter-racial harmony, and inter-faith dialogue. The focus of my father’s life was an unwavering and unapologetic commitment to truth and justice, and we hope that this scholarship will inspire students to live in his footsteps at a time when it is needed most.”
About the Award
This scholarship supports a student or students enrolled in the Master of Peace and Conflict studies at Conrad Grebel University College at the University of Waterloo, who demonstrate commitment to social and racial justice.
The award is given to:
- Students enrolled in good standing in the Master of Peace and Conflict Studies program at the College.
- A self-identified Black person, Indigenous person, or persons who identify with racialized groups who have experienced economic hardship and/or social disadvantage.
- Students who have demonstrated commitment to social justice, inter-racial harmony and inter-faith dialogue through on-campus or off-campus volunteer activities.
- Students who are actively committed to student leadership in MPACS.
Amount: One award of approximately $1,000.