AF Foundation

Andrew Forde Polymath Award

As part of the foundation’s work to foster the growth of the individual to empower the community, The Andrew Forde Polymath Award was created. Designed for the University of Toronto, the Andrew Forde Polymath Award takes its bearings from Forde’s own life. To be given to young engineering students who diversify their efforts, and also contribute to the growth of the African & Caribbean communities in many unique ways, this award is granted to those who devote their dedication not only through community involvement, but also a commitment to their academic success. For the next five years, the Andrew Forde Polymath Award will provide financial assistance to an undergraduate engineering student who excels in multiple areas, beyond academics, and is actively engaged in helping to strengthen the Afro-Caribbean community. The Andrew Forde Polymath Award will be awarded to a student enrolled as a first-time undergraduate student entering their second, third, or fourth year in the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering at the University of Toronto. Students must have demonstrated community involvement through being actively engaged in helping to strengthen the skills, competencies, and abilities of Afro/Caribbean people through history, culture, literature, empowerment, or thought.

On March 22, 2014, the inaugural award was presented at a luncheon located at the University of Toronto’s Engineering campus. 

Oti Agbeyegbe (IndE 1T5 + PEY)

2015 Recipient 

Oritsetimeyin "Oti" Agbeyegbe (IndE 1T5 + PEY) was selected for his strong academic performance and his involvement in the University of Toronto chapter of the National Association of Black Engineers, where he led several initiatives as the pre-collegiate chair.

"This award definitely inspired me, it was fulfilling to be recognized after two years of hard work."

-Oti Agbeyegbe

 

Dimpho Ellen Radebe (IndE)

2015 Recipient 

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for your generous Andrew Forde Polymath Award. I was very humbled and appreciative to learn that I had been selected as the recipient for this award this year. This scholarship will aid in lightening the financial burden that my studies impose on my family, will allow me to focus more on my studies and will motivate me to continue striving for success.

Your generosity has inspired me to work hard. I am hopeful that one day I will be successful in my career and that I too will be able to help students in their pursuit of education and in achieving their goals just as you have helped me. Thank you once more for your generous contribution.

-Dimpho Radebe

Hilda Antwi-Nsiah (ChemE)

2016 Recipient 

Hilda was selected for this award due to her excellent academic performance and extracurricular activities. She finished first year with a 3.97 GPA and was heavily involved in a group called Power to Change, participated in intramural basketball and field hockey.  She is a stellar example of a leader, and what excellence within and outside of Academia looks like.

"Andrew Forde’s successes and experience inspired me to do better and also encouraged me to get involved in school activities. I will continue to strive for academic excellence and participate in extracurricular activities in order to distinguish myself as a member of the engineering community." 

-Hilda Antwi-Nsiah