Kevin Joseph – A 2024 Schulich Leader shaping the future in STEM and beyond

Kevin Joseph’s journey to becoming a 2024 Schulich Leader demonstrates his deep dedication to community growth and personal development. Whether leading student organizations or coaching young athletes, Kevin has consistently aimed to uplift those around him. The prestigious Schulich Leader Scholarship, awarded to top Canadian students in STEM, recognizes not just his academic excellence but also his commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders.

Kevin’s path to this accomplishment reflects a mindset of service over self. “I’ve always believed that success is measured not just by individual achievement, but by how much you give back and uplift those around you,” he says. This core belief has shaped his every action, from helping organize events like Relay for Life to volunteering as a karate instructor for six years. His unwavering focus on helping others, combined with his academic excellence, made him an ideal candidate for the Schulich Leader Scholarship.

Winning the Schulich Leader Scholarship is a moment Kevin will never forget. “I was taking the bus back from a track meet when I got the unforgettable phone call,” he recalls. That call marked the culmination of years of dedication to both academic and extracurricular pursuits. Kevin’s well-rounded background—ranging from his role as co-president of the Athletic Council to his involvement in STEM innovation projects—helped him stand out.

The award not only validates his hard work but also strengthens his resolve to continue supporting his community. “It felt surreal to know that everything I’ve worked for led to this opportunity,” Kevin reflects. His gratitude is matched by his excitement for what lies ahead at uOttawa, where he plans to deepen his contributions both inside and outside the classroom.

Kevin’s passion for science led him to choose uOttawa. “I wanted to select a university that would allow me to explore different avenues, and uOttawa provided a great sense of depth and breadth when it came to scientific research,” Kevin explains. His experiences, like participating in the Ottawa Science Innovation Challenge at uOttawa while attending high school, inspired him to dive deeper into STEM. Studying in his hometown, with its close connection to government research facilities and cutting-edge academic opportunities, felt like a natural fit.

One of Kevin’s most influential experiences came through The Knowledge Society, a program that broadened his perspective on achieving ambitious goals. The combination of uOttawa’s resources and his personal drive makes it clear why he chose this path. Kevin is eager to leverage his studies to give back to the Ottawa community, which has played such a significant role in shaping who he is.

As Kevin looks to the future, his focus is on staying curious and embracing opportunities. He plans to immerse himself in as many meaningful experiences as possible, both inside and outside the classroom. “I hope to continue working in a zebrafish lab and exploring applied scientific endeavours,” Kevin says. His involvement in university sports, like Ultimate Frisbee, also helps him stay balanced and connected with his peers.

After graduation, Kevin hopes to explore the biotechnology field, where he aspires to use emerging technologies to tackle global health challenges. He’s excited by the potential to combine his love for science with his commitment to making a tangible difference. While Kevin’s goals are ambitious, he remains grounded in the belief that success comes from perseverance and a mindset of service to others.

Kevin Joseph’s story is one of purpose, passion and community impact—a true example of what it means to be a Schulich Leader.