News Releases

The Direct Sellers Association of Canada (DSA Canada) proudly announced today the awarding of $16,000 in scholarships to four standout Canadian university students. The annual scholarship program is designed to support the educational aspirations of students who are connected to the direct selling industry – this year’s winners are pursuing degrees across various fields including education, art therapy, engineering, and design.

2024’s Distinguished Scholarship Recipients:

• Diana Trujnikova, University of Calgary, Bachelor of Design in City Innovation. Diana has been influenced by her parents' roles as long-standing Amway consultants, learning resilience and the value of connections firsthand.
• Ethan Dart, University of British Columbia, pursuing Engineering. Ethan's mother's successful direct selling career with Arbonne has shown him the value of perseverance and personal commitment.
• Gabrielle Funk, Concordia University, working towards a Master’s in Art Therapy. Inspired by her mother’s journey with Mary Kay Cosmetics, Gabrielle is driven to empower others through art.
• Steven Ilijanich, University of Windsor, in the Bachelor of Education program. As a direct seller for CUTCO/Vector Marketing, Steven has developed leadership skills that enhance his educational pursuits.

Peter Maddox, President of DSA Canada, commented on the significance of the awards: “These scholarships represent our investment in the next generation of leaders who draw on the strength and integrity of the direct selling industry. We are delighted to support these exceptional students who have demonstrated dedication to their academic pursuits and embody the principles of entrepreneurship and community service taught through direct selling.”
 

The scholarships highlight the direct selling industry's role in supporting its members, emphasizing personal growth, community building, and education. The Direct Selling Education Foundation (DSEF), supported by DSA Canada, plays a crucial role in this initiative.

“We continue to be amazed by the quality and diversity of applications from young scholars across Canada,” said Jessie Arsenault, Chair of the DSEF. "This year's recipients showcase the potential within our community. It is truly rewarding to contribute to their academic and professional journeys through our Scholarship Program.”

Since the program began in 2012, DSEF has awarded over $146,000 in academic grants to deserving post-secondary students throughout Canada. The DSEF, a charitable organization founded by DSA Canada in 1994, underscores DSA's commitment to fostering educational opportunities. The DSEF is dedicated to advancing public knowledge and understanding of the direct selling industry in Canada through educational programs and pertinent research.

The scholarship program will continue to support students in 2025, with applications opening in March of next year. Eligibility extends to post-secondary students who are connected to the direct selling industry through family ties or personal involvement.

For further information and to apply for next year’s scholarships, please visit: https://dsa.ca/scholarship_program