Maestro Fresh Wes introduces new scholarship at NSCC
Making waves in Canadian hip-hop
In November 2023, it was announced that Maestro Fresh Wes, a trailblazing figure in Canadian hip-hop, will receive the honour of being inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the Juno Awards in March 2024. To celebrate this remarkable achievement, Wes partnered with the NSCC Foundation to establish the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship at NSCC.
Wes Williams, known by his stage name Maestro Fresh Wes, is a multi-talented artist from Toronto. The Canadian rapper, producer, actor, author and motivational speaker has been called the “Godfather of Canadian hip-hop,” and was the first Black Canadian artist to have a recording reach platinum status in Canada.
The Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship
As the recipient of an Honorary Diploma from NSCC in 2017, this scholarship is Maestro Fresh Wes's way of giving back to the community.
The annual scholarship will provide financial support to part-time or full-time African Nova Scotian and Black students enrolled in Trades and Transportation programs at NSCC's Akerley Campus. His vision is to provide hope and open doors for youth and individuals looking to pursue skilled trades as an in-demand career in Nova Scotia.
"For over three decades I've helped to build the Black music industry of Canada. Now, I am planning to inspire Black builders of Canada,” says Maestro Fresh Wes. “I salute Nova Scotia Community College and Akerley Campus for assisting me to continue to affect positive change."
“It makes me proud that Wes’ connection to the College inspired him to use this incredible achievement of his as a way to give back to students,” said Don Bureaux, President of NSCC. “Thank you for believing in NSCC. I know you will make a lifelong impact on students at the College, like you have done for many others in your career.”
Furthering Wes’ support of NSCC students
The Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship provides recipients with the financial resources they need to thrive.
Join Wes and support his mission by contributing to the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship today through nscc.ca/mfw.
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