Every year, we proudly support dedicated students who are passionate about giving back across Canada, the US and the UK through the Foresters Competitive Scholarship.1 This year, we’re thrilled to announce that Foresters FinancialTM awarded 520 scholarships to young leaders.
Winners receive up to $2,000 in North America and up to £1,000 in the UK. The scholarship can help support young leaders pay for essentials when pursuing higher education.
We’re proud to celebrate their achievements, so we’re highlighting some of this year’s winners. Learn more about who they are, what they do and how they stepped forward.
Let’s hear from some of our winners!
Savannah Kate Finucan, from Forest City, NC, is currently attending Gardner-Webb University. She dedicated over 200 hours volunteering for multiple Hurricane Helene relief efforts as well as various clubs during her time at Chase High School.
On her future, Savannah said “I am excited to begin my journey toward becoming a mental health counselor. Thank you, Foresters, for your generous support in helping me pursue my education and devote my career to serving my community.” Way to go, Savannah!
Rylie Lapikas is studying at Kent State University, OH, where she will graduate with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing next May. She volunteered over 1,000 hours with Freedom Paws Assistance Dogs for her Competitive Scholarship application and is eager to continue volunteering after graduation.
Rylie said “I plan to continue to train future service dogs! I have raised two service dogs for this organization and they are doing amazing. I hope to continue to love people well and be advocates for them as I advance my career and volunteer.” Rylie, keep up the great work!
Laura Allen, from Ellensburg, WA, will graduate from Central Washington University this upcoming year. Laura volunteered more than 300 hours with Scouting America.
When we checked in with Laura, she told us, “I am entering the workforce as a graphic designer in in Seattle. Giving back to my community has always been important to me. In my last year at university, I am volunteering as a photographer for my school’s student-run magazine to provide photos and gain experience on editorial publications.” Nice work, Laura!
Arnay Kathuria, from Brampton, ON and is studying at the University of Waterloo. He recorded more than 150 volunteer hours with the Regeneration Food Bank to sort and make food for people in need. He also helped Bartley Skills to teach barbering and hair styling and joined the KC Group to organize community events for South Asians in the GTA.
Arnay is looking forward to his future. “I am now attending the University of Waterloo for Honours Math, my dream program, and hoping to make a difference in the field including industries like data science, actuarial science, and more!” Arnay, congratulations!
See the full list of 2025 – 2026 recipients at foresters.com.
Do you know an eligible student or are you a young leader who loves to give back to their community?
Keep an eye out to apply for next year starting in December 2025!
Discover more about the Foresters Competitive Scholarship, including award details, application guidelines and eligibility criteria by visiting our scholarship page.
425121 CAN/US (10/25)
