GEM*STAR FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN!
Empowering Black Youth for a Brighter Future!
The Gem Star Circle of Excellence provides scholarships and mentorship to high-achieving Black Grade 11 students in Montreal. This initiative supports students with financial aid, year-long mentorship, and leadership development opportunities to help them excel academically and professionally.
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Our Goal:
We aim to raise $40,000 to fund over 25 scholarships. Your support will provide these students with the resources they need to succeed and lead.
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Why Your Support Matters:
Black youth in Montreal face systemic barriers in education. By donating, you help bridge these gaps and empower students to reach their full potential.
We’re proud to collaborate with WIBCA (West Island Black Community Association), our fiduciary, ensuring donations are securely managed and tax-deductible.
For more information on the fundraising campaign, click the button below.
Ready to emppower our community with your donation? Click Donation button below.
2024-2025 APPLICATIONS ARE CLOSED!
ABOUT US
Organized by Playmas Montreal Cultural Association, the GemStar Scholarship Program is the brainchild of Gemma Raeburn-Baynes, President of Playmas Montreal and a longtime BMO employee. Part of Playmas Montreal’s mandate is to assist deserving high performing Black high school students in achieving their dreams by facilitating their pursuit of higher education through scholarship awards of $1,500 each. BMO Bank of Montreal has agreed to finance the GemStar Scholarship Program, as a sponsor, under the auspices of the Bank’s Black Entrepreneurs Program. Other sponsors include Groupe 3737, other individual donors, and corporations.
GEM*STAR CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE GRADUATION CEREMONY GALLERY
2023
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OUR MISSION
Aims to empower and inspire the next generation
The GemStar Circle of Excellence, a program designed to provide mentorship opportunities for Black and Caribbean students who are pursuing academic, social, and economic excellence, aims to empower and inspire the next generation of leaders by providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. By participating in GemStar Circle of Excellence, students can connect with experienced professionals who can guide them through their academic and career journeys.