Schulich Business Students Awarded Top AI Scholarships from Vector Institute
Graduate students from York University’s Schulich School of Business have earned recognition among Ontario’s leading artificial intelligence (AI) talent, securing the prestigious Vector Scholarships in Artificial Intelligence. Each scholarship, valued at $17,500, supports advanced AI study and was awarded to 120 recipients across the province for the 2025–2026 academic year. Announced on May 8 by the Vector Institute, the scholarships were granted to graduate students enrolled in select AI master’s programs across Ontario.
Showcasing Schulich’s expertise in business analytics and AI-driven management education, awardees Joyce Ayoson, Nadia Hakime, Apoorva Jishtu, and Vrushti Trivedi are deepening their knowledge in fields that connect business strategy with machine learning through the Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence (MMAI) and Master of Business Analytics (MBAN) programs. Their accomplishments highlight Schulich’s commitment to developing future leaders for Canada’s growing AI workforce.
The Vector Scholarship provides more than just funding. Scholars gain access to exclusive events with top researchers and professionals, along with entry to the Vector Digital Talent Hub — a platform designed to connect AI graduates with leading employers in the field.
This access to industry connections has a tangible difference for past recipients like Schulich alumnus Daniel Kur (MBAN ’20), who received the Vector award in 2019.
“The Vector Scholarship played a key role in helping me shift from a finance background to a credible AI career,” said Kur, now a senior machine learning scientist at Theoriq. “It opened doors and gave me a foothold in a highly competitive space.”
Recipients from Schulich will join peers from 14 other Ontario universities when the scholarship term begins this fall. The Vector Institute is expected to announce nomination timelines for the 2026–2027 round later this year, continuing its commitment to supporting emerging AI talent across the province. Visit the Vector Institute website for more details.
About the Recipients
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Joyce Ayoson |
Joyce Ayoson (MMAI Candidate ’26), who immigrated to Canada from Nigeria at 14, developed a passion for understanding how technology influences systems and human decision-making. With a background in economics and psychology, she now focuses on AI ethics, aiming for a future career as a technology lawyer. “Receiving the Vector Scholarship has definitely helped alleviate financial stress, but more importantly, it feels like a vote of confidence in my commitment to shape the future of responsible AI,” Ayoson says. “It’s encouraging to know that this work matters and is being supported. I believe that if we build technology with care and intention, it can be a force for good that benefits everyone.” |
Nadia Hakime |
Nadia Hakime (MMAI Candidate ’26) holds an MBA from the Royal Military College and a BA in communication studies from York University and currently works as an imagery technician at the Canadian Forces College. Her research explores the ethical and strategic use of AI in public sector and defense communications, with a focus on enhancing decision-making and secure information systems. “Receiving the Vector Institute Scholarship fills me with gratitude and excitement as I pursue my passion for AI,” Hakime says. “This generous support will empower me to focus on groundbreaking research, collaborate with brilliant minds and contribute meaningfully to the future of artificial intelligence.” |
Apoorva Jishtu |
Apoorva Jishtu (MBAN Candidate ’26) brings a background in economics and consulting, with experience in strategy, market analysis, and financial services. She is passionate about using data-driven insights to inform evidence-based decision-making across diverse sectors. “Receiving the Vector Scholarship is both an honour and a powerful motivator,” Jishtu says. “It reaffirms my commitment to using data science to create impactful, equitable solutions, and I’m excited to grow alongside a community of brilliant and purpose-driven minds.” |
Vrushti Trivedi |
Vrushti Trivedi (MMAI Candidate ’26) has a background in statistics and experience working with data across both public and private sector projects. She is focused on applying AI to improve service delivery, policy development, and equitable access to technology. “I am truly honoured to receive the Vector Scholarship in Artificial Intelligence,” says Trivedi. “This recognition affirms the value of my interdisciplinary journey and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries at the intersection of human insight and intelligent systems. I am excited to contribute to the future of AI in a way that is thoughtful, impactful and grounded in real-world application.” |
