Canadian Actuaries Award $9K in DEI Scholarships

Three students are celebrating wins that will help them break into one of Canada's most influential professions. The Canadian Institute of Actuaries and the Actuarial Students' National Association just awarded $9,000 in scholarships designed to bring fresh voices into actuarial science.

Ruby Eger received the Indigenous Scholarship, recognizing her pursuit of actuarial studies and strengthening Indigenous representation in a field that shapes financial decisions for millions. Geshna Kodai won the Inclusive Culture Scholarship for her work creating welcoming spaces in the actuarial community. Mathieu Paradis earned the Academic Achievement Scholarship for outstanding performance in his studies.

Each scholarship provides $3,000 to support students who are charting paths in a profession many people don't know exists. Actuaries use math and data to help Canadians make smart decisions about everything from insurance to pensions.

"Our profession thrives when we embrace different perspectives and create opportunities for new actuaries from all backgrounds," says Angelita Graham, President of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries. The organization represents over 6,800 members who apply statistical expertise to help people plan for the future.

The partnership between the professional institute and student association shows established leaders investing in change. By funding scholarships that prioritize diversity alongside academic merit, they're acknowledging that who solves problems matters as much as how they solve them.

The Ripple Effect

When students from underrepresented communities enter technical fields, they bring insights shaped by different life experiences. An Indigenous actuary might better understand financial challenges in remote communities. Someone who fought for inclusive spaces as a student will likely build inclusive workplaces as a professional.

These three scholarship winners received their awards during a gala dinner at the 36th ANÉA-ASNA Convention in Ottawa on January 17. The celebration brought together students and seasoned professionals, creating connections that can last entire careers.

Sanjit Samanta, Vice President of Business Relations for the student association, notes that tackling social obstacles in the field is "critical to forging a stronger Canadian actuarial community." The scholarships represent more than financial support. They send a clear message about who belongs in rooms where important decisions get made.

As these three students advance in their studies, they're not just building individual careers but paving wider roads for others to follow.