The 35th anniversary of the Montreal Massacre is approaching, marking the somber remembrance of the tragic event where 14 women were murdered at École Polytechnique in 1989. In the spirit of honoring those who lost their lives, the Order of the White Rose scholarship has been established to empower young women in STEM fields. Makenna Kuzyk, a mechanical engineering graduate from the University of Alberta and a Calgary native, has been awarded this year’s scholarship, valued at $50,000. Announced during a ceremony at the renamed Polytechnique Montreal, Kuzyk’s achievement underlines both the legacy of the victims and the potential of aspiring female engineers.
At just 23 years old, Kuzyk expressed her shock and gratitude upon receiving the award, particularly given her recent financial struggles after obtaining her pilot’s license. The scholarship will significantly alleviate her concerns over funding her Master of Science in Flight Test Engineering program at the International Test Pilots School in Ontario, paving the way for her continued education and career aspirations. Kuzyk articulated her appreciation for the support, recognizing the critical role that financial assistance can play in advancing academic and professional goals in a challenging field.
Determined to promote the representation of women in the aerospace industry, Kuzyk’s research will focus on microgravity environments. Her ambition goes beyond personal achievement; she envisions fostering opportunities for other women in aerospace and utilizing Canada’s resources to expand their contributions to space exploration. Kuzyk’s reflections indicate a growing awareness of the barriers women face in male-dominated fields and a commitment to changing that narrative through her work.
During the ceremony, Nathalie Provost, a survivor of the Montreal Massacre, introduced Kuzyk, praising her as an impressive young woman with boundless potential. Provost emphasized the importance of the Order of the White Rose not just as a recognition of achievement but also as a source of support for nurturing young women in their journeys. The sense of community and mutual upliftment echoed throughout the event, reminding attendees of the importance of collaboration in achieving personal and professional milestones.
Kuzyk’s journey and achievements serve to inspire others, particularly young women considering careers in engineering and aerospace. By receiving the Order of the White Rose, she joins a legacy of women who have faced and overcome significant challenges. Provost’s excitement for Kuzyk’s future signifies a hopeful turning point for women in STEM and an opportunity to thrive in fields previously dominated by men.
As the anniversary of the Montreal Massacre prompts both remembrance and reflection, it acts as a reminder of the ongoing need for advocacy, support, and empowerment of women in traditionally male sectors. The accomplishments of scholarship recipients like Kuzyk represent a broader movement towards gender equality and demonstrate that through collective effort and support, societal barriers can be dismantled, allowing future generations to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
