Six Surrey students receive $60,000 scholarships from Cmolik Foundation
Surrey Schools is proud to share that six students in the district are each receiving $60,000 scholarships from the Cmolik Foundation for their post-secondary education.
Students from Enver Creek, Fleetwood Park, Fraser Heights, Johnston Heights, École Kwantlen Park and L.A. Matheson secondary schools are among this year’s Cmolik scholarship winners, selected from accomplished applicants across B.C. and recognized for their academic achievements, work ethic, philanthropy and ability to overcome adversity.
This year’s Cmolik scholarship recipients are:
Madison Holborn, L.A. Matheson Secondary
Recognized for her dedication to her studies and her passion for helping others, Holborn was considered a perfect fit for the Cmolik scholarship. The L.A. Matheson grad will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at Douglas College with the hope of becoming a post-anesthesia care unit nurse at BC Children’s Hospital to make a difference in the lives of children and their families.
“Madison is truly a wonderful student, and as her teacher, I have had the privilege of witnessing Maddie’s exceptional academic commitment, personal resilience and compassionate character – qualities that make her an outstanding candidate for this award,” said L.A. Matheson social studies department head Kailie Crosby.
Rhea Kahlon, Enver Creek Secondary
Throughout secondary school, Kahlon has demonstrated a tremendous ability to balance coursework with substantial responsibilities and a resolve to achieve long-term goals. Inspired to help others, she plans to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at UBC with a focus on finance and aims to work in investment banking while leading a non-profit that provides stable, dependable housing for children with autism.
“Rhea is a person of strong character, she is kind, respectful, dependable and deeply considerate of others,” said Enver Creek social studies teacher Martin Bailey. “Her goal of studying commerce and contributing meaningfully to society reflects both ambition and purpose.”
Isaiah Muer, Fraser Heights Secondary
Working hard both in the classroom and at his job with the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), Muer’s work ethic was just one of the factors that led to his selection for the Cmolik scholarship. Muer aspires to be a family physician and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science with a major in Biology with the intent of understanding the human anatomy and diseases in order to translate science into care.
“I have found Isaiah to be very hard-working, kind, reliable, confident, a great team player and a trustworthy leader,” said Christina Mayo, Muer’s manager at the PNE. “Isaiah's commitment to excellence has contributed to both academic and work life success. I am confident that Isaiah will bring this same dedication to his post-secondary pursuits, using his education to contribute to the greater good.”
Jia Singh, École Kwantlen Park Secondary
After seeing children suffering in Fiji and across the globe from lack of access to basic medical care, Singh was influenced to become a pediatrician to help children in need. She has excelled academically while being a part of the local air cadets, and is pursuing a Bachelor of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa to fulfill her aspirations.
“She always works hard to achieve her goals even when things get difficult, showing unwavering determination and perseverance,” said Capt. Tarra Heiland, Commanding Officer of the 767 Dearman Royal Canadian Air Cadets Squadron. “Her ability to overcome challenges and maintain focus on her dreams is a testament to her character.”
Vaishnavi Verma, Johnston Heights Secondary
With a desire to reduce stigma around mental health and improve conditions for others, Verma stood out for her passion to support individuals on an emotional, cognitive and behavioral level. Verma will attend the University of Toronto in the fall, where she will study for a Bachelor of Life Sciences.
“I am in awe of Vaishnavi’s drive and initiative to create positive change,” said Johnston Heights teacher Taylor Kim. “She has a true passion for helping people, especially those that are disadvantaged or marginalized in real, tangible ways.”
Karen Zhou, Fleetwood Park Secondary
As a star student with a penchant for giving back, it’s no surprise Zhou foresees a career in healthcare helping patients through their medical journeys. Zhou is pursuing a Bachelor of Pharmacy at UBC with the goal of earning her Doctor of Pharmacy to support and inform others with medications.
“There are few students like Karen – she does not seek attention or accolades, yet she embodies the qualities scholarship programs strive to support perseverance, responsibility, integrity and quiet leadership,” said Fleetwood Park coach Adryon Hutton. “She elevates the spaces she occupies through consistency, kindness and effort.”
Founded in 2008, the Cmolik Foundation provides scholarships to youth who have experienced adversity, supporting their undergraduate and post-secondary education. Currently, more than 100 students are enrolled in the foundation’s scholarship program.
Congratulations to all of our 2026 Cmolik Foundation scholarship recipients!
For past winners, see our recipients from 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022 (including graduate scholarships), 2021 and 2020.
