2026 Diversity Leadership Bursary recipients honoured for making a difference in Clarington

The Municipality of Clarington is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Clarington Diversity Leadership Bursary: Arthika Eugene Raj from St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School and Naz Gul Ali Madad from Clarington Central Secondary School.

Recognized for their outstanding leadership in fostering inclusion, belonging, accessibility, and cultural understanding, each student will receive a $1,250 bursary to support their post-secondary education and continued commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities. The bursary celebrates graduating students who demonstrate leadership in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, accessibility and belonging within their schools and the broader community.

"Arthika and Naz have each demonstrated an exceptional commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive spaces where people feel valued, respected and supported," said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. "Through their leadership, compassion and dedication to helping others, they are making a meaningful impact in their schools and community. On behalf of Council, congratulations to these incredible students on this well-deserved recognition."

Arthika Eugene Raj, a graduating student from St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School, has shown an outstanding commitment to fostering inclusive spaces and building a strong sense of belonging within her community. Arthika has been deeply involved in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. She founded the Asian Student Association and has been an active member of the Multiculturalism Club and Student Council, consistently advocating for greater recognition of cultural diversity. She also served as a student liaison for PVNCCDSB, elevating student voices and contributing to the development of the Multi-Year Strategic Plan, and supported initiatives through the Accessibility Week Committee. Beyond school, Arthika has demonstrated a strong commitment to service through humanitarian advocacy, her involvement in the Youth in Policing program, and volunteer work at community events such as food banks, cleanups, Applefest, Ribfest, and the Terry Fox Run. In the fall, Arthika will be attending McMaster University to study Life Sciences, with the goal of pursuing a career in medicine or public health and continuing her passion for helping others.

Naz Gul Ali Madad, a graduating student from Clarington Central Secondary School, has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusion, belonging, and supporting others both academically and personally. Through peer support and academic collaboration, Naz has helped classmates navigate challenging subjects while fostering a sense of belonging among her peers. Naz has also been a leader in creating inclusive spaces within her school community. She co-founded the Muslim Student Association and, as Spirit and Events Minister, organized initiatives that brought together students from a wide range of backgrounds in welcoming and engaging ways. Through her art and lived experiences, she created a school mural and space for healing, reminding students that they are not alone and that their identities and experiences matter. In the fall, Naz will attend Toronto Metropolitan University to study Biomedical Science, with the goal of pursuing a career in cardiothoracic surgery. She is driven to create communities where individuals feel seen, respected, and supported, and where diversity is truly valued.

“Congratulations to the recipients of the Clarington Diversity Leadership Bursary,” said Beverly Neblett Diversity Advisory Committee Chair. “Your leadership, initiative and service in your schools and community to advance diversity, inclusion, anti-racism, accessibility, and belonging have been a meaningful contribution in shaping the future of Clarington, where everyone feels respected, represented and valued. The Clarington Diversity Advisory Committee wishes you the best in your post-secondary studies and future endeavours.”

Mayor Foster, Members of Council, Municipal Staff, Members of Clarington’s Diversity Advisory Committee and Diversity Leadership Bursary recipient Arthika Eugene Raj.

Now in its third year, the Diversity Leadership Bursary is supported by Clarington’s Diversity Advisory Committee—an advisory group of local volunteers who provide guidance to Council and the Municipality on diversity-related issues. 

Learn more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Clarington at www.clarington.net/IDEA.