YORKTON – Graduating high school students across Saskatchewan have an opportunity to offset the rising cost of post-secondary education as applications open for the 2026 Conexus Youth Leadership Awards.
Conexus Credit Union is offering 12 scholarships, each valued at $5,000, with applications accepted until Friday, May 15.
The awards are open to students entering post-secondary studies, including university, technical or trade programs. Eligibility requires that the applicant, or a parent or guardian, be a member of Conexus, Cornerstone, or Synergy Credit Unions.
Conexus CEO Celina Philpot says the program is designed to recognize leadership while helping ease the financial pressures students face.
"It’s inspiring to see young people across our province building their leadership skills and giving back to their schools and communities," Philpot said. "We want to celebrate their efforts and make it easier for them to handle the costs of higher education."
Michael Chmielewski with Conexus says the awards reflect the organization's broader commitment to community investment.
"As a local credit union, we really believe in giving back to the community," Chmielewski said. "We dedicate five per cent of our pre-tax profits every year to community investment and charitable initiatives, and supporting youth is a key part of that."
With the cost of housing, food and tuition continuing to rise, Chmielewski says financial supports like scholarships can play a key role in helping students transition into post-secondary life.
"There's a lot of new commitments and potential barriers when students leave high school," he said. "If we can help reduce those barriers and allow young leaders to focus on their goals, that's something we want to be part of."
The program is open to students from across the province, including those in Yorkton and surrounding communities.
Officials also note that applicants should not limit themselves based on assumptions about eligibility or competitiveness.
"Sometimes people rule themselves out for scholarships," Chmielewski said. "Our advice is don't hesitate to apply. You never know what might happen."
Applicants are required to complete a form that includes a short essay, a letter of support from a community leader and confirmation of enrollment in a post-secondary program.
