Contest Winners!

Bakdauren, originally from Kazakhstan, moved to Canada in 2023 and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Science at the University of British Columbia – Okanagan. His current research focuses on developing novel techniques for Virtual Reality locomotion. This September, he plans to begin his PhD in Computer Science at the same university, where he will explore the challenge of a diminished sense of personal agency in users closely integrated with technology. He aspires to become a researcher in Human-Computer Interaction, aiming to help shape a future in which humans and technology collaborate seamlessly toward shared goals. Although he misses his family and friends back home, he has come to deeply appreciate the kindness of the people in Canada and the stunning beauty of Kelowna — a place he dreams of one day sharing with his loved ones.

Fun Fact: He literally "wrote the book" on Math Olympiads in the Kazakh language.

Kushaal was born in Hyderabad, India, and moved to Canada in 2023 in pursuit of new opportunities and growth. Since arriving, he's been committed to personal and professional development, recently completing his Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Windsor. One thing he deeply misses about back home is the food—there’s nothing quite like the flavours of Hyderabad. At the same time, he truly appreciates the countless opportunities Canada offers to learn, grow, and build a meaningful career.

Vivek moved to Canada in 2019 after earning a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from IIT Madras to pursue an MSc in Finance from the University of British Columbia. Now, he works as a Financial Analyst at a fintech company in Toronto, creating solutions for alternative investment managers. He misses the deep-rooted connections that shaped my hometown and being close to the Ocean. Vivek appreciates Canada’s vibrant multiculturalism and the opportunity to build connections across diverse backgrounds.

Kate (or Katya) moved to Canada in 2018 to study mathematics and build a new home. Over the past seven years, she has lived in several provinces, earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in mathematics — from Thompson Rivers University (Kamloops, BC) and McMaster University (Hamilton, ON), respectively — and gained five years of experience as a baker. Now, she’s preparing for a new chapter in math education at the University of Ottawa, weaving together her experiences from both Ukraine and Canada. While she still misses Ukraine’s delicious desserts and effortlessly walkable cities, she has also come to cherish Canada’s breathtaking nature and the kindness of people who are always ready to lend a hand.

Akachukwu is from Nigeria, and moved to Manitoba, Canada in 2020. He has a bachelor’s of science degree in Biochemistry with a minor in Biology from the University of Manitoba. While he misses his family in Nigeria as well as the dishes, he enjoys the sporting setup in Canada especially with football (soccer) and being able to take long walks and enjoy the beautiful scenery.