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In the Fall, Ava Clifford will attend the University of Saskatchewan where she plans to pursue a degree in chemistry. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)
Outstanding youth

St. Mary grad receives $70K scholarship for community leadership

Jun 9, 2026 | 11:04 AM

As a direct result of her community leadership, and a decision to step up for a close friend, Prince Albert’s Ava Clifford has been named a recipient of one of Canada’s most prestigious student awards.

The St. Mary graduate is one of only 20 students to receive up to $70,000 toward her post-secondary education through the TD Scholarships for Community Leadership. The money that is allocated over four years will go towards tuition and living expenses.

After provincial legislation barred students from using their chosen names and pronouns without parental consent, Clifford decided to take action in her own right.

 “I was really concerned about this because my best friend is trans and that bill essentially made it impossible for students to come out at school or at home if they are living in a toxic environment,” she said.

Clifford joined her local Pride organization and founded Teen Pride, a grassroots, inclusive social club for teens. Over the past two years, she has organized events, built safe spaces for LGBTQ2S+ youth and helped launch Teen Pride chapters in communities across the region.


Ava Clifford believes she has made a big difference.

Clifford has been accepted at the University of Saskatchewan and plans to pursue a career in pharmaceuticals.

Since 1995, 620 young Canadians in their final year of high school or CEGEP have been awarded the TD Scholarships for Community Leadership. Beyond financial support, the scholarship offers mentorship, work experience, and networking connections that can help recipients build on their community involvement early on.

“I am incredibly proud to have been an early recipient of the TD Scholarships for Community Leadership. This scholarship validates the importance of young leaders and the impact they are already having in their communities across Canada,” Dr. Sabine Dhir, Assistant Professor, Strategy and Organization at McGill said in a statement. “Being part of the national network of inspiring individuals has profoundly shaped my journey as a student, professor, and leader. At a time when the challenges facing our communities and institutions are increasingly complex, the TD Scholarships for Community Leadership serve as a powerful reminder that thoughtful, values-driven leadership and community engagement matter more than ever.”

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell