Haleluya Hailu
Coming from a family of immigrants, I was taught from a very young age that nothing is too far out of reach if you work hard enough for it. Growing up, my parents tried their best to push me out of my comfort zone, involving me in the arts and community theater and cultivating my passionate love of poetry and jazz.
Moving to Nelson, I’ve never felt so uncomfortable. I was out of my element, missing the hustle and bustle of the city. And yet at this rural community college, I’ve pushed myself past what I thought I was capable of learning. I was never able to afford instrument lessons for more than a few months at a time, and now I feel confident singing, drumming and playing songs that always seemed too challenging. I constantly fight through the challenges of being an independent Black creative in my industry— always having to work double for half the recognition and not being taken seriously by my peers.
After receiving a scholarship from Selkirk College, I felt the power of this community. I feel blessed to be supported by the donors of this school; my post-secondary education is completely funded by scholarships and bursaries. You incredible individuals create pathways and facilitate success for students to find their footing and give back to their communities.