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Selected through a competitive process, the 2024 EKO Scholars are determined to contribute in positive ways to society. All are pursuing post-secondary education at Ontario universities and colleges, and plan to work in education, business, law, emergency services, technology, and politics, and make sure every avenue is open to other kids who may have disabilities and developmental needs.

Each 2024 EKO Scholar shares their experiences growing up with a disability or with developmental needs, and the benefits they received from treatment. They also shared how being different could be an isolating experience. Each of our scholars demonstrates a self-awareness beyond their years, promise, and a motivation to live their best lives. 

We look forward to seeing the impact each EKO Scholar will make in their chosen fields, in their communities, and in our world.

Audrey Godbout smiles in front of a beautiful sunset.

Congratulations to Audrey—the 2024 Empowered Kids Ontario Indigenous Scholar!

Audrey’s recognized talent for construction and the trades have shaped her professional experiences, but looking ahead she plans to utilize her strength and determination in emergency services.

Meet Audrey
August Hummelbrunner poses and smiles for her professional headshot.

Congratulations to August—an Empowered Kids Ontario Scholar who has an affinity for business. August is working at accounting giant Ernst and Young in the Toronto office on the banking technology team during her summer break from her studies at Western University’s Ivey School of Business.

Meet August
CJ is wearing his military uniform and smiling with green trees in the background.

Congratulations to CJ—an Empowered Kids Ontario Scholar who is an active, parachute-jumping, achiever with a fascination for computers and the great technological innovations that come along with them.

Meet CJ
Jordan is posing and smiling on an apartment balcony with a beautiful sunset in the background.

Congratulations to Jordan—an Empowered Kids Ontario Scholar who wants kids to know that no matter what their abilities are, they can do whatever they desire. Already experienced in teaching, Jordan plans to continue her career in primary education.

Meet Jordan
Josephine Noue is smiling for a close-up selfie.

Congratulations to Josephine—an Empowered Kids Ontario Scholar who has a passion for making a positive impact. From charitable contributions and advocacy to her love and care for animals, Josephine is carving a path of compassion and determination.

Meet Josephine
Keira smiles for a close-up professional headshot in front of a dark grey background.

Congratulations to Keira—an Empowered Kids Ontario Scholar who has won praise for her advocacy as a SickKids Ambassador and how it can serve children. Keira also pushes for improvements in schools like regular land acknowledgements, de-streaming supports, and washroom accessibility.

Meet Keira
Kim Mantha smiles and poses in front of a white wall.

Congratulations to Kim—an Empowered Kids Ontario Scholar who seeks to influence change and create positive impact on people and communities. She advocates for others who can’t, brining equitable and inclusive thinking to decision tables and helping others understand and break negative stereotypes and inherent bias.

Meet Kim
Logan poses in a grey shirt and blue jeans, he is sitting on a tall stool in front of a dark grey background.

Congratulations to Logan—an Empowered Kids Ontario Scholar who has two passions: history and advocating for people with disabilities. Logan plans to become a professor and with his drive and talent, you can bet he’ll reach that destination.

Meet Logan

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Did You Hear?!

EKO Spring Symposium is Back in 2025!

Every two years EKO hosts this pinnacle event for the child development sector and the largest gathering of professionals and stakeholders from Ontario and across Canada.

learn more about the event!