Celebrating Night for Bright Minds 2025
On June 24, Beedie Luminaries hosted A Night for Bright Minds 2025, welcoming its largest-ever cohort of students. This year, $12 million is being awarded to 280 outstanding students, setting a new record for the most scholarships presented by a single program in Canada.
The celebratory evening, attended by more than 1,000 guests, was filled with joy, inspiration, and community. We were joined by families, mentors, partners, supporters and many Beedie employees, whose presence made the night truly unforgettable. Our keynote speaker Farinaz Lari left the entire room inspired, reminding us that: “You don’t lose – you learn.”
Since launching in 2019, Beedie Luminaries has supported over 1,000 students, fulfilling its mission to provide financial and wraparound support to young people facing socio-economic barriers as they pursue post-secondary education.
“I am incredibly excited by the growth of Luminaries since we welcomed our first cohort in 2019,” said Ryan Beedie, Founder of Beedie Luminaries and President of Beedie. “This year, we are almost doubling the number of scholarships and welcoming our inaugural cohort of trades students. My goal has always been to expand Luminaries so more deserving students can achieve their post-secondary dreams.”
Beedie Luminaries scholarships provide up to $44,000 for undergraduate studies, $50,000 for graduate studies, and $20,000 for skilled trades programs. Each recipient also receives wraparound support, including mentorship, student success advising, workshops, and peer-to-peer forum groups, valued at up to $30,000 per student.
“Although I feel like I say this every year, this year’s cohort is among the most inspiring we have ever encountered,” shared Martina Meckova, Executive Director of Beedie Luminaries. “Our latest students come from every corner of the province – from Winlaw to White Rock, Salmon Arm to Sooke. So many have faced exceptional challenges yet remain committed to their education goals. It is a privilege to support them.”
“This scholarship means the world to me. It’s not just financial support – it’s a weight lifted off my shoulders,” said Rawan, a Grade 12 student at New Westminster Secondary School and 2025 SHINE Scholarship recipient. “Knowing that Beedie Luminaries believes in me and is supporting my journey gives me strength and motivation I can’t fully put into words.”
The evening was made possible thanks to generous partners and sponsors, including our presenting sponsor Royal Bank of Canada, and above all, the vision and unwavering commitment of Ryan Beedie.
Ryan, your dedication to education and equity continues to change the lives of students, their families, and the communities they serve. Thank you for all that you do.
Want to get involved? We are looking for new mentors! To learn more please visit Beedie Luminaries or send us an email at info@beedieluminaries.ca
