McMaster University has welcomed a new cohort of Schulich Leaders, recipients of Canada’s most sought-after scholarship for students pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Awarded annually to students who demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset, leadership, charisma and creativity, Schulich Leader Scholarships support the next generation of innovators and changemakers. The scholarships are valued at $120,000 for engineering students and $100,000 for students pursuing science and mathematics programs.
“The Schulich Leaders joining McMaster this year have already shown extraordinary talent, initiative and a commitment to making a difference,” says Maureen MacDonald, provost and vice-president (Academic).
“We are proud to welcome these exceptional students to our community and look forward to seeing the impact they will make through their studies, research and leadership.”
President and vice-chancellor Susan Tighe adds, “McMaster is pleased to welcome a new cohort of Schulich Leaders to campus this fall. We are excited that they will take the next step in their leadership journeys in Hamilton, and grateful to the Schulich Foundation for supporting students in STEM.”
Selected from a national pool of nominees, Schulich Leaders are recognized for their academic achievement, entrepreneurial spirit and potential to contribute to Canada’s future through STEM. This year’s recipients bring a diverse range of accomplishments, from research and innovation to athletics, entrepreneurship and community service.
Learn more about McMaster’s 2026 Schulich Leaders:
Tristan Barkman | Chemical & Physical Sciences Gateway
Tristan Barkman combines research excellence with athletic prowess. A two-time Team Canada competitor, he represented Canada at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and at the World Junior Ball Hockey Championships.
Barkman has also earned a Hamilton Health Sciences Research Bursary and authored two sole-author research publications. Driven by a passion for mathematics and discovery, he aspires to pursue research in fluid dynamics and mathematical biology.
Gabriel Beghetto | Chemical & Physical Sciences Gateway
Gabriel Beghetto has distinguished himself through intellectual curiosity and personal determination. A three-time recipient of his school’s Academic Excellence Achievement Award, he also placed in the top 25 per cent worldwide on the University of Waterloo’s Fermat Mathematics Contest.
Passionate about physics, mathematics, music and problem-solving, he aspires to pursue advanced research in nuclear physics, contributing to innovations in fusion energy and the future of clean, sustainable power.
Isabel Berena-Mojica | Engineering
Isabel Berena-Mojica has distinguished herself through leadership, innovation and a passion for applying technology to real-world challenges. As coding lead and co-captain, she helped revive her school’s FIRST Robotics team after a five-year hiatus, leading more than 30 students to a regional championship and the team’s first-ever provincial appearance while raising over $20,000 in sponsorship support.
Berena-Mojica has also developed AI-driven solutions in biotechnology and social innovation competitions, earning awards across North America.
She aspires to advance surgical and diagnostic robotics, developing intelligent medical technologies that improve patient care and expand access to life-saving treatment.
Naomi Georges | Integrated Science
Naomi Georges has distinguished herself through athletic excellence and community service. In addition to earning International Baccalaureate certificates in four subjects, Georges has competed successfully in science olympiads, mathematics contests and science fairs while playing Tier 1 fastpitch softball and multiple varsity sports.
As a lifeguard, swim instructor and volunteer youth coach, she is committed to serving her community and aspires to become a STEM leader who makes a meaningful impact.
Arpan Khera | Mathematics & Statistics
Arpan Khera has demonstrated outstanding academics, leadership and dedication throughout high school. He received the Branlyn Community School Proficiency Award, presented to the top graduating student, and excelled in advanced mathematics and science courses while maintaining a strong commitment to athletics.
As team captain with the Brantford Minor Hockey Association and BHI Royals, Khera developed leadership, discipline and teamwork through competition across North America. He plans to pursue mathematics and hopes to build innovative, data-driven solutions for global financial markets.
Ceci Martens | Mathematics and Statistics Gateway
Ceci Martens has demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication across mathematics, music and martial arts. Ranking among the top one per cent nationally in the 2025 Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest, she was invited to attend Canada/USA Mathcamp in both 2025 and 2026.
Martens has also earned black belts in karate and kobudo and completed Level 8 Piano through the Royal Conservatory of Music.
Driven by a passion for problem-solving, she hopes to explore the mathematics behind encryption while contributing to a vibrant mathematical community at McMaster.
Kevin Peluchon-De La Garza | Engineering I Co-op
Kevin Peluchon-De La Garza has demonstrated exceptional initiative, innovation and leadership in STEM. Recognizing a gap in opportunities at his school, he co-founded both a Robotics Club and an Electric Vehicle Team, helping lead the construction of the school’s first FTC robot while promoting inclusion through Women in Engineering workshops.
Selected for a competitive RBC software development internship, he developed a prototype that reduced customer service call times by 25 per cent. Passionate about mathematics and science outreach, Peluchon-De La Garza also built a popular educational platform that engages thousands with advanced calculus and physics concepts.
He aspires to pursue research in engineering physics, artificial intelligence, robotics and mathematics before launching a technology venture focused on accessible, high-impact innovation.
Flora Sonneveld | Engineering I Co-op
Flora Sonneveld has combined leadership and community service with a passion for increasing access to sport. She founded a non-profit organization that helps make tennis more affordable for young people, organizing a beginner’s tournament to create new opportunities for youth participation.
As a Canadian Ambassador, she welcomed and supported international students adjusting to life in Canada. A recipient of her school’s Governor General’s Academic Medal, Sonneveld has also excelled in French immersion studies and varsity athletics.
She hopes to contribute to the advancement of nuclear energy while continuing to expand access to tennis for future generations.
Wynona Teologo | BTech – Automotive & Vehicle Engineering Technology
Wynona Teologo has demonstrated a strong commitment to STEM, entrepreneurship and community leadership. Her early research projects exploring renewable energy systems earned recognition at the Bison Regional STEM Science Fair and sparked a lasting passion for innovation.
As vice-president of production in the Junior Achievement Company Program, she developed leadership and business skills while helping guide her team’s operations and growth. An executive member of her school’s STEM Club and a varsity basketball player, Teologo combines technical curiosity with determination and resilience.
Inspired by the transformative power of mobility, she aspires to pursue automotive engineering and entrepreneurship, developing sustainable and accessible transportation solutions that improve lives and expand opportunities worldwide.
Victor Wybenga | Engineering
Victor Wybenga has paired technical creativity with exceptional leadership across academics, music and athletics. Founder of his school’s Coding Club, he taught programming and software design while leading projects ranging from competition coding and hackathons to game development.
Wybenga also designed prototypes for “Encore,” an app intended to help musicians organize performances and build professional connections.
Holding leadership roles in robotics, jazz band, curling and an award-winning rock band, he hopes to combine his passions for computer engineering and music to create innovative technologies for artists and musicians.