About

The Gem*Star Circle of Excellence Scholarship & Mentorship Program, organized by the Playmas Montreal Cultural Association, was conceived by Gemma Raeburn-Baynes, President of Playmas Montreal and a long-time employee at BMO. This initiative aims to support high-achieving Black high school students in their pursuit of higher education by providing scholarship awards of $1,500 each.

BMO Bank of Montreal is sponsoring the program as part of the Bank’s Black Entrepreneurs Program. Additional support comes from Groupe 3737, individual donors, and other corporate sponsors.

Purpose of The Scholarship Awards

The scholarship awards aim to recognize students who are motivated and committed to pursuing higher education and to assist them financially in achieving their academic dreams.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The Gem*star scholarship awards are dedicated to promoting academic excellence and youth involvement in the Black community.
To be eligible for the scholarship, each student applicant must be:

A Canadian citizen or landed immigrant

A Grade 11 student of high academic standing

A member of the Black community with demonstrated involvement in the community

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

Eleven high schools throughout Montreal will participate in the promotion and student application process. Application forms will be made available to all prospective students at their respective institutions and on the playmasmontreal.com website. Student applications will be considered only if they are duly completed and submitted before the deadline.

On receipt of students’ applications, the respective school administration and guidance counsellors will nominate two eligible students for consideration by the Gem*Star Selection Committee.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

On receipt of students’ applications, the respective school administration and guidance counsellors will nominate two eligible students for consideration by the Gem*Star Selection Committee.

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

Recipients of the Gem*Star scholarships will be presented on September 29, 2022, at a reception hosted by BMO. Award recipients will be introduced to Black entrepreneurs and BMO executives at the BMO reception. Scholarships will be presented to the winners at their respective High School Graduation Ceremonies.
GEM*STAR GRADUATION CEREMONY 202

**GEM*STAR GRADUATION CEREMONY 2025**

HOW CAN ONE SUPPORT THE SCHOLARSHIP FUND?

You can donate in any amount you feel comfortable with. This will help our youth excel, overcome barriers, and embrace their full potential as future leaders.
Another way to support is by sponsoring a GemStar Student for a year in our GemStarTraining Program, which is our personal development program helping students along the way in their excellent journey with support through mentorship and guidance so they can be the best they can be.
You can volunteer your time as a support or mentor for the program!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

New From Playmas Montreal

Gem*Star Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program Fundraising Campaign.

Empowering Black Youth for a Brighter Future

The Gem Star Circle of Excellence provides scholarships and mentorship to high-achieving Black Grade 11 students in Montreal. This initiative supports students with financial aid, year-long mentorship, and leadership development opportunities to help them excel academically and professionally.

Our Goal

We aim to raise $40,000 to fund over 25 scholarships. Your support will provide these students with the resources they need to succeed and lead.

Why Your Support Matters:

Black youth in Montreal face systemic barriers in education. By donating, you help bridge these gaps and empower students to reach their full potential. We’re proud to collaborate with WIBCA (West Island Black Community Association), our fiduciary, ensuring donations are securely managed and tax-deductible.