U SPORTS and BlackNorth Initiative (BNI) announce eight recipients of the 2025 Athletes on Track Bursary

U SPORTS, in partnership with BlackNorth Initiative (BNI) and Sherrard Kuzz LLP, announced the recipients of the 2025 Athletes on Track Bursary today. In the program’s third year of operation, eight outstanding Black student-athletes within U SPORTS have been selected to receive this prestigious award.

The bursary program, supported by BNI and generous contributions from Scotia Wealth Management, Roots, Wheaton Precious Metal and Canada Basketball, provides a $5,000 award to each of the eight student-athletes. In addition to financial support, BNI will assign each recipient a dedicated mentor who will provide tailored guidance in crucial areas such as career development, public speaking, and personal growth.

“We are proud to support these talented student-athletes who excel both on and off the field,” says Dahabo Ahmed-Omer, Chief Executive Officer of BlackNorth Initiative. “This bursary program is about more than financial support, it’s about recognizing and nurturing the potential of these exceptional leaders. Congratulations to this year’s recipients; we are excited to witness the impact they will continue to make in their communities and beyond.”

To qualify for this opportunity, applicants must be Black (Afro-Caribbean, African Canadian, and/or racialized), currently enrolled in a Canadian university, and actively participating as a member of a U SPORTS varsity team. Financial need is also a key consideration in the selection process.

Recipients:

Canada West:

  • Emmanuel Dan-Adokiene (Trinity Western University – Men’s soccer)
  • Charity Williams (University of British Columbia – Women’s rugby)

OUA:

  • Tamarri Lindo (York University – Men’s track and field)
  • Vobia Kalome (Queen’s University – Women’s basketball)

RSEQ:

  • El Hadj Saliou Diop (Université de Montréal – Men’s track and field)
  • Daniella Mbengo (McGill University – Women’s basketball) 

AUS:

  • Kamari Scott (University of Prince Edward Island – Men’s basketball) 
  • Gabriel Belone (Université de Moncton – Women’s soccer) 

“This program is a testament to the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change,” said U SPORTS Chief Executive Officer, Pierre Arsenault. “By supporting Black student-athletes through mentorship and financial assistance, we are not only fostering their academic and athletic excellence but also empowering future leaders in our communities. U SPORTS is proud to partner with BlackNorth Initiative to champion equity and opportunity in university sport.”

Media contact:

John Bower
Director, Marketing and Communications
jbower@usports.ca
780-667-5646

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