Bassano high-school student Wasif has been selected as a 2026 Loran Finalist

Wasif said she was in shock when receiving the phone call about being a finalist.

“I didn’t know what to say at the time, my mind went blank, it was a really amazing experience, and it was very exciting to find out,” Wasif said.

Being a finalist, Wasif said, is an accomplishment she has worked towards for a long time.

“Finally making it to that point and having so many great experiences with the Loran Foundation staff as well really brought a sense of accomplishment and happiness for not only myself, but also that my community is being represented,” Wasif said.

About four years ago, Wasif’s mentor sparked her interest in researching the Loran Foundation with hopes of applying in the future.

“She told me about this scholarship [and] seeing what sort of people are the perfect fit for this scholarship, and just learning more about the foundation itself and the award,” Wasif said.

“When scholarship applications came around, this is one I want to give a try. I want to apply to it, no matter what happens, at least I tried.”

Wasif said encouragement from her mentors and principals helped her gain confidence to apply for the scholarship.

“So many incredible students from across the country are applying, so it’s really a pretty big deal,” Wasif said.

“Even their encouragement allowed me to send in my application in the first place and hit that submit button, and one button led me to where I am today, and I’m pretty excited about that.”

The foundation welcomes students travelling from homes across the country from Feb. 20 to 22, 2026, for the Loran’s National Selections in Toronto.

Wasif said the process is exciting to be a part of, as well as meeting the other finalists.

“They’re like-minded individuals, it’s meaningful to find other students your age that are at the same part in their life as you are,” Wasif said.

“These experiences allow me to connect with kids across the nation, and just share our experiences, see what the next generation of leaders are going to look like.”

Coming from a small town, Wasif said it has been intimidating at first, but also very exciting.

“It always was really amazing seeing different perspectives on how urban perspectives are,” Wasif said.

“I’m excited to talk to everyone and see the differences, because it can really be eye-opening listening to other people.”

Loran Scholars receive a four-year leadership development program that includes summer work experiences, one-on-one mentorship, annual scholar gatherings, an annual living stipend and a tuition waiver at one of 25 partner universities across Canada.

Finalists not selected for the full award are eligible for a one-time $6,000 Loran Finalist Award.

There were six other Alberta students who were named finalists, with Sania Grewal of Chestermere, Isha Goyal and Kayenat Zaidi of Calgary, Tessa Muddle of Edmonton, Wake Roadhouse of Lacombe and Finn Johnson of Smoky Lake.

by Jett Schwaier

Bassano high-school student Wasif has been selected as a 2026 Loran Finalist

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