The 19th Anna B. Lewis (A.B.L.) Anniversary Scholarship Awards was a celebration of achievement, resilience, and hope for the future. Held on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, at New Life Christian Assembly in Toronto, the event drew: parents, guardians, and supporters who came to honour five remarkable students.
Anna B. Lewis, a devoted member of Pilgrim Church of the Firstborn, left a lasting legacy of faith and service. Since its launch in 2006, the A.B.L. Memorial Scholarships (founded and coordinated by Greta Archer, wife of Rev. Dr. Gene Archer) have recognized young people excelling academically and personally. This year’s theme, “Arise & Thrive in 2025!”, captured the spirit of the evening.
Rev. Dr. Archer welcomed the recipients with words of encouragement. He reminded them: “Knowledge is indispensable. The Bible teaches that all human knowledge comes from God’s perfect knowledge. In your pursuit of learning, know the author of ultimate wisdom. Use your mind and your gifts for His glory. Remember, in Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3).”
Greta Archer echoed this sentiment in her written message, “This year, we celebrate five academically accomplished and multi-talented young people who have already overcome many challenges in their journeys. We are proud of their achievements, in academics, athletics, music, and leadership. Tonight, we celebrate not just their success, but their character.”
The program blended: faith, culture, and talent. Guests enjoyed piano performances by Josiah Bryan, selections from the acclaimed Chitans, and a joyful Kids’ Sing Along. The atmosphere brimmed with pride and encouragement.
Meet the 2025 scholarship recipients
Shivani Sriragavan
A graduate of Central Peel Secondary School in Brampton, Shivani earned a B.Sc. (Honours) in Biology with minors in French and Psychology at the University of Central Lancashire in the UK. She will complete her clerkship at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in New York and aims to study medicine at the Cleveland Clinic.
Arianna Whyte
Arianna graduated from Cardinal Leger Secondary School in Brampton and continues to chart her academic path with determination.
Jayloni Daley
Jayloni, a Richview Collegiate Institute graduate, earned recognition as Athlete of the Year for his excellence in sports and leadership on the field.
Davian Gardner
Davian, from St. Aloysius Gonzaga Secondary School, developed leadership skills as a basketball coach. After overcoming a serious injury, he plans to study Kinesiology at the University of Windsor to become a sports therapist.
Zuriel Clarke
Zuriel graduated from Loyola Catholic Secondary School, excelling in leadership roles across various activities. She will attend York University to pursue a career in teaching, with the goal of shaping the next generation as an educator.
The A.B.L. Scholarship Committee worked tirelessly to make the celebration possible. Members included: Blanch McIntosh, Claudette Powell, Colette Daley, Denley McIntosh, Janet Stewart, Elder Amolyn Peart, Janel Archer, and Clairmont Humphrey.
A special thanks went to Brother Phillips for his expertise in Zoom and technology, which helped connect the community. Local sponsors such as: Canadian Tire (Shoppers World), Shopper’s Drug Mart, Med Wellness Center, Journey’s Cuisine International Flavors, and Complete Care Physio contributed generously. Sonia Filler and Ricardo Stewart donated backpacks to support students as they begin new chapters.
The 19th Anna B. Lewis Scholarship Awards reminded everyone in attendance that education is about: courage, faith, and service. For these five students, the award was not just recognition, but a launchpad for dreams that will impact communities near and far.
Good news, indeed. This was an event to remember.
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