Neighbour Media × Magna International

Pay It
Forward
Scholarship

Celebrating graduating students in Newmarket & Aurora who don't just participate in their communities — they actively shape them.

Five $1,000 Scholarships to be Awarded

Spring 2026
Newmarket & Aurora
High School Graduates
Pay It Forward Scholarship Award Logo
Applications Open
March 23, 2026
Application Deadline
April 30 @ 5:00 PM
Applicants Notified By
May 29, 2026
Late Submissions
Not Accepted

Built for Students Who Show Up

"Powerful communities are built by neighbours who show up for one another."

The Neighbour Media Pay It Forward Scholarship Award, proudly powered by Magna International, celebrates graduating high school students in Newmarket and Aurora who embody the true spirit of community.

This scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated initiative, leadership, generosity, and a deep commitment to giving back. It is designed to support young leaders who don't just participate — but actively create meaningful impact in their schools and communities.

This award honours students who are already doing just that.

🌱

Initiative & Leadership

You take action without being asked, and inspire others to follow.

💛

Generosity in Action

Your time, effort and creativity go toward lifting others up.

🤝

Community Commitment

Deep, meaningful involvement across schools and local organizations.

🎓

Future Changemakers

A vision for carrying the spirit of service forward past graduation.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the award, applicants must meet all of the following requirements.

01

Graduating in Spring 2026

Applicants must be completing high school in the current academic year (Spring 2026).

02

Newmarket or Aurora School

You must attend a high school located in Newmarket or Aurora, Ontario.

03

Volunteer & Community Involvement

Demonstrated significant volunteer involvement and meaningful contribution to your community.

04

Sponsor Endorsement Letter

A letter from a non-family sponsor who can verify and speak to your community involvement firsthand.

How to Apply

Five clear steps. All components must be submitted — partial applications will not be considered.

1

Download & Complete the Application Form

Fill out the official application form in full. Make sure all fields are complete before submitting.

Download Application Form PDF
2

Download & Complete the Sponsor Endorsement Form

Your sponsor must be a non-family member who can verify and speak to your community involvement. Have them complete the endorsement form.

Download Sponsor Endorsement Form PDF
3

Record Your 1–3 Minute Video

Create a short video that showcases and explains your community contributions. Address the following prompts:

  • How do you volunteer at school and within your community?
  • How has your volunteer work made a difference?
  • Have you done something creative, innovative, or unique to help others?
  • What inspires you to volunteer?
  • What does "paying it forward" mean to you?
  • What are your academic or professional plans after graduation?
  • How do you see yourself continuing to make a difference?
4

Upload to Google Drive or WeTransfer

Create a Google Drive folder and compile all three components (application form, endorsement letter, and video) — OR use a WeTransfer link.

5

Send Your Submission Email

Email your Google Drive or WeTransfer link to:

Use the subject line: 2026 Pay it Forward Scholarship Award

You will receive a confirmation email once your submission has been received.

⚠ Important: All three components must be received to be considered. Any partial applications will be discarded.
📁 Google Drive: If submitting via Google Drive, ensure the folder share permission is set to "Editor".
Consent Notice: By submitting your application, you grant Neighbour Media permission to use your name, image, and submitted video content for promotional and communications purposes across print and digital platforms.

The Video Submission

  • How do you volunteer at school and in your community?
  • How has your volunteer work made a difference?
  • Have you done something creative or unique to help others?
  • What inspires you to volunteer?
  • What does "paying it forward" mean to you?
  • What are your plans after graduation?
  • How will you continue to make a difference?

Keep It Real. Keep It You.

Your video doesn't need to be professionally produced — it just needs to be honest and heartfelt. Speak to the camera, show us who you are, and let your community work speak for itself.

Feel free to include individuals, organizations, or initiatives you've been part of. The more specific, the stronger your submission.

🎬  1 – 3 Minutes

What We're Looking For

We're seeking students who live these values — not just students who can describe them.

Takes Initiative

You don't wait to be asked. You see a need and you act.

❤️

Compassionate Leader

You lead with empathy and lift others in the process.

💡

Creative Problem Solver

You find new ways to support others and tackle real challenges.

🌍

Broad Impact Vision

You understand that community impact comes in many forms — big and small.

🔭

Forward-Thinking

You carry the spirit of service into your future plans and career.

Why This Award Exists

🏆

Recognize Young Leaders

Give visibility and celebration to students already making a difference in their communities.

🗳️

Encourage Civic Responsibility

Foster youth engagement and a culture of active participation in community life.

🚀

Invest in Changemakers

Provide real support to the next generation of community builders and social innovators.

🌟

Inspire Generosity

Inspire others to live the values of generosity, action, and neighbourly kindness.

Ready to Apply?

Applications are open from March 23 to April 30, 2026. Don't wait — late submissions will not be accepted.

Send Your Application

Deadline: April 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM  ·  thulshof@neighbourmedia.ca