Student Bursary
Building belonging: Sean’s story
Aug 18, 2025
In the heart of Montreal's Concordia University, a story of resilience, determination, and leadership is unfolding. Sean, a soon-to-be Industrial Engineering graduate, is proud to be one of the first recipients of the TELUS Momentum Student Bursary, powered by CIBC Foundation.
Sean's path to success wasn't always clear. His story begins at age four when he and his mother moved to Canada from Zimbabwe in search of new opportunities. While Montreal initially welcomed them, a subsequent move to a small town in Saskatchewan presented unexpected challenges. In this predominantly white, rural community, Sean faced racism and cultural disconnection that would shape his understanding of the importance of belonging.
Adversity reveals strength
"My whole life had been turned upside down and I felt alone," Sean recalls of his early university days. After struggling through his first year in a nursing program, he made the difficult decision to drop out. What followed was one of the toughest periods of his life, working night shifts to sustain himself while trying to find his path forward.
Rather than letting these challenges define him, Sean used them as fuel for transformation. "Determined to face my previous fears and to make something of myself," he shares, "I saved up and applied to Concordia's Industrial Engineering program."
His early experiences would later fuel Sean's passion for creating inclusive spaces. When he first arrived at Concordia as an out-of-province student, he found himself in familiar, uncomfortable territory. "This was a difficult time for me as I didn't develop any friendships or a sense of community," Sean recalls.
Sean's turning point came when he discovered the African Student Association of Concordia (ASAC). "ASAC helped me to integrate into student life, develop new friends, as well as feel a sense of self and belonging within my own African culture," he shares. This positive experience became the catalyst for Sean's commitment to community engagement and leadership.
Paying it forward
Determined to pay it forward, Sean became a student ambassador for ASAC in his second year, assisting with event planning and outreach. But it was in his third year that he took a significant leap, joining the Black Students Centre of Concordia, as their first male student coordinator.
"My role is to continue to promote a strong and inclusive environment for Black students," Sean explains. His dedication and passion can be felt in every interaction. During each shift in the student lounge, he engages with up to 30 students, ensuring they have a safe space to connect and express themselves.
Sean's impact extends beyond day-to-day interactions. He has become a driving force behind numerous events that foster community and celebration. The impact of Sean's efforts is clear in the testimonials of his peers. One first-year student shares, "It was really cool to meet Sean and find a group and a community that I could really resonate with and help me feel accepted."
Creating a sense of belonging for others
Today, Sean isn't just excelling in his studies – he's creating the sense of belonging for youth that he once wanted. His personal journey has shaped his approach to leadership, ensuring that no student has to navigate their experiences feeling isolated or disconnected.
The TELUS Momentum Student Bursary, powered by the CIBC Foundation, recognizes the profound impact students like Sean have on their communities. As he continues to pursue Industrial Engineering, his story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all.
