Maestro Fresh Wes, known as the godfather of Canadian hip-hop, has created a scholarship at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) to celebrate his induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, announced on November 7.
Wes has partnered with NSCC Foundation to establish the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship, an annual award dedicated to African Nova Scotian and Black students in Trades and Transportation programs at NSCC Akerley Campus. As a 2017 NSCC Honorary Diploma recipient, this scholarship is Wes' way of paying it forward. His vision is to provide hope and access to youth and individuals looking to pursue skilled trades as an in-demand career in Nova Scotia.
"Maestro Fresh Wes is a Canadian icon. We are honoured that he is stepping up in support of NSCC students," says Jill Provoe, VP, Academic and Equity, NSCC.
"Using his platform as an inductee into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame to encourage Black students to enter into skilled trades exemplifies his outstanding leadership and commitment to community. We look forward to working with Wes to grow the scholarship through a shared vision to meet the workforce needs of the province and to promote Black Excellence."
"For over three decades I've helped to build the Black music industry of Canada. Now, I am planning to inspire Black builders of Canada. I salute Nova Scotia Community College and Akerley Campus for assisting me to continue to affect positive change," says Maestro Fresh Wes.
Donations to the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship can be made through NSCC Foundation at nscc.ca/mfw.
Current NSCC students can learn more and apply for the award by visiting nscc.ca/awards. The deadline to apply is November 30, 2023.
