The Loran Scholars Foundation is redefining scholarships in Canada by identifying and empowering students who demonstrate strength of character and a commitment to leaving the world better than they found it. As one of 25 partner universities across the country, SFU has invested in Loran Scholars since 1998, and this fall, welcomes Daisy and Magfira into a community where their values and vision will thrive.
Passionate about community empowerment, Magfira is from Vancouver and brings a wealth of experience uplifting youth and local residents.
A member of three youth councils, she has helped organize and facilitate events and shown incredible compassion in her work, which includes: leading life skills workshops for girls in Grades 6 to 12, distributing hundreds of hygiene care packages to unhoused individuals, and collecting toiletry kits and handmade scarves for a local women's shelter.
Focusing her studies within the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS), she says she's been inspired by the university's strong social sciences programs.
"I'm excited to meet, learn, and interact with the large, diverse community doing something I love," she shares. For her, this award is more than a scholarship it's a catalyst: "Receiving the Loran Award has been an opportunity and recognition of my capabilities as a person, along with the chance to be a changemaker for the future."
Daisy Bains, from Surrey, B.C., has also been a dedicated advocate and inspiring leader in her community, earning her the 2025 Young Wonder award from DARPAN Magazine. As president of her high school's racial equity collective, she organized numerous events, fundraisers, and anti-racism workshops, creating space for dialogue and action.
She also founded and coached a traditional Giddha dance team, served as vice-president of an investing program, and volunteered with a reading buddies program at her local library.
Daisy is also an FHS student, and says she was drawn to the university's intimate, engaged community. In addition to exploring the natural surroundings and trails on SFU's Burnaby campus, she hopes to expand and participate in student-led initiatives during her time here and has already joined the university's Gidha Club as a choreographer.
"To me, the Loran Award is a promise to myself and my community to keep working towards positive change," she shares.
With their passion, strong sense of purpose, and drive to uplift others, Daisy and Magfira are set to deepen their already impressive impact, making a real difference here at SFU and out in their communities.
