Meet this year’s winners and discover their thoughts on how their chosen post-secondary studies and career goals could impact the real estate industry in the future. Learn about the aspirations, volunteerism, and free time activities of our winning students in their short bios here.
FIRST PLACE
Akishai Sabaratnasarma
“I aim to apply my skills and abilities to develop impactful projects in the real estate industry. Specifically, I plan to create a software platform and mobile app that streamline the home buying and selling process. By leveraging innovative technologies, my goal is to address key challenges such as limited price transparency and the lack of personalized recommendations. The platform will help users accurately assess property values, forecast market trends, and receive tailored listings that truly align with their needs.”
FIRST PLACE
James Thomas
“My post-secondary education in urban planning will have a large impact on the real estate industry through practicing the planning of sustainable, efficient, and inclusive communities. With strategic land use and infrastructure planning, I aim to create well-integrated neighbourhoods that enhance access and livability.”
SECOND PLACE
Matthew Luke
“I am planning to study engineering and business. This education would give me the skills necessary to work in creating sustainable property developments that benefit society. I would work with a variety of professionals in real estate industry, including agents, buyers, sellers, construction companies, and other developers.”
SECOND PLACE
Zaima Dewan
“I plan to pursue a degree in engineering, with the goal of contributing to innovation in housing design through my education and expertise. Additionally, I intend to obtain my real estate license in the near future to further expand my impact in the field.”
THIRD PLACE
Aliya Arnette
“Pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Co-operative Management and International Business degrees will provide me with a stable foundation in business and entrepreneurship. I strive to leverage my newfound knowledge and experiences to innovate within the real estate industry by simplifying home buying and selling processes through implementing technology-driven solutions.”
THIRD PLACE
Kaydan Gupta
“Majoring in finance, economics, and law will give me the skills to navigate the complexities of the real estate industry. With a strong foundation in finance and economics, I will be able to analyze market trends, assess property values, and develop investment strategies that drive sustainable growth. My legal knowledge will help me understand zoning laws, negotiate contracts, and ensure fair and efficient real estate transactions.”
FOURTH PLACE
Michal Ilyayev
“My passion for computer science can drive meaningful change in the real estate industry by introducing innovative tech solutions to simplify and modernize the way we rent properties. I aim to address the gap in student housing by creating a platform for fractional rentals. This platform would offer fully furnished spaces with flexible leasing options, allowing students to rent a fraction of an apartment for a few weeks, months, or even longer.”
FOURTH PLACE
Sanford Purdon
“A career in health and wellness directly connects to the future of real estate. As cities evolve there will be a growing need for housing and urban spaces that promote both physical and mental well-being. Designing real estate with wellness in mind—such as incorporating green spaces fitness centers, and stress-reducing environments—can improve quality of life. My career in health and wellness will contribute to shaping real estate trends that prioritize healthier living environments, ensuring that future communities support overall well-being.”
2025 Scholarship Winners’ Biographies
First Place
Akishai Sabaratnasarma
Akishai is pursuing Software Engineering at the University of Waterloo. He is a machine learning enthusiast who loves creating innovative projects that help solve problems. He is also passionate about business and finance and has won first place in the DECA International Competition in the Financial Consulting category, beating out hundreds of students. Akishai finds great satisfaction in giving back to his community and has organized hack-a-thons and led various non-profit initiatives.
James Thomas
James Thomas is attending the University of Waterloo for a Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Planning degree. His areas of interest include city planning and connections, the influence transportation systems play on everyday life, and the requirements necessary to construct efficient and sustainable urban spaces.
Second Place
Matthew Luke
Matthew has accepted an offer to study engineering with Ivey Advanced Entry Opportunity at Western University. He loves running and is a committed recruit to the Western Mustangs track and field team. Matthew enjoys volunteering and helps coach other track athletes at his school and the Burlington Track and Field Club.
Zaima Dewan
Zaima is pursuing Engineering Science at the University of Toronto. She finds analyzing the overlap between engineering and housing extremely interesting as they both deal with designing solutions for the betterment of people’s lives.
Third Place
Aliya Arnette
Aliya has accepted an offer to the Management and International Business program with Co-operative Education at the University of Toronto. She is exploring a variety of opportunities in the finance and real estate sector. She is a volunteer swim instructor and has spent many hours working with children. Aliya is an active member of the Markham Mayor’s Black Youth Liaison.
Kaydan Gupta
With plans to major in both finance and law at Queen’s University, Kaydan is preparing to invest in and shape the future of real estate. This powerful combination will equip him to navigate complex financial landscapes and legal systems, empowering him to develop projects that are not only economically viable but also socially impactful. His goal is to create innovative workspaces that foster growth and accessible housing that strengthens communities.
Fourth Place
Michal Ilyayev
Michal is pursuing a Computer Science degree at McMaster University. She is passionate about using technology to address real-world challenges in innovative and practical ways. Michal’s experience includes developing websites, games, and a growing portfolio that showcases her skills in both design and programming. Michal leads the Shield Initiative, a nonprofit organization that designs custom IV pole platforms to support paediatric oncology patients.
Sanford Purdon
Sanford is a committed mentor through the Big Brother program, a dedicated member of the track and field team, and a valuable contributor to the baseball team. His passion for sports and supporting others has inspired him to pursue a degree in Kinesiology at the University of Guelph-Humber. He views this degree as a foundation for future opportunities in real estate. He looks forward to taking the next step toward building a career that balances service with long-term success.