The Direct Sellers Association of Canada (DSA Canada) announced 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 media, communications and health sciences.
2025’s Scholarship Recipients:
- Hannah Howitt, University of Calgary, studying for a Bachelor of Health Sciences. Hannah has been influenced by her moms’ role as a long-standing Pampered Chef consultant, learning the value of connection and the importance of acting outside your comfort zone.
- Milana Abbruscato, University of Guelph, pursuing a Bachelor of Environmental Sciences. Milana’s grandmother’s successful direct selling career with Avon has shown her the importance of consistency and active listening.
- Ulysse St-Louis, CEGEP de Trois Rivieres, studying Social Sciences. Inspired by his mother’s journey with Mary Kay Cosmetics, Ulysee has learned to be independent, confident, and motivated to work for what he wants.
- Joshua Hall, Trinity Western University, is in the Media and Communication Graduate Certificate Program. Aided by his mom and her successful career with Amway, Joshua continues to overcome significant challenges and has not let disabilities hold him back from working towards a bright future.
Peter Maddox, President of DSA Canada, commented on the significance of the awards, saying, “These scholarships reflect our commitment to the next generation of leaders, who demonstrate the strength and integrity of the direct selling industry. We are proud to support these outstanding students, whose dedication to academics, entrepreneurship, and community service reflects the very values at the heart of 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 are continually inspired by the talent, passion, and diversity of young scholars from across Canada,” said Jessie Arsenault, Chair of the DSEF. “This year’s recipients embody the incredible potential of the next generation, and it is a privilege to support their academic and professional journeys through our Scholarship Program.”
Since the program began in 2012, DSEF has awarded over $160,000 in academic grants to deserving post-secondary students throughout Canada. The DSEF, a purpose-focused 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.
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