Student’s passion for human rights earns her more than $3,000 in scholarships

Prince Andrew High School student Allyssa Walsh has won a $3,600 scholarship for her commitment to human rights.

The money is being given to her by the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies.

“Education, history and human rights are passions of mine. So when my history teacher suggested I apply for this scholarship, I did, and now I am grateful to have been a recipient.”

She will attending Dalhousie University in the fall. Her future goals are to become a human rights lawyer.

“I am initially taking a double major in history and political science. I want to help alleviate the suffering around the world because of tragedy and violation against people.”

Sara Greenfield, director of education for FSWC said their scholarship program recognizes Grade 12 students across Canada pursuing post-secondary education who have demonstrated both outstanding academic achievement, and a commitment to human rights and the values upheld by their organization.

The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) is a non-profit, human rights organization that promotes tolerance, justice, and human rights. They support international efforts to counter antisemitism, hate and intolerance through education and advocacy efforts.

Simon Wiesenthal was an author, a human rights advocate, and a Holocaust survivor who dedicated his life to pursing Nazi war criminals.

“Continuing to educate about the Holocaust is necessary. And I will continue to do that. We can’t really answer that period of time. We can’t find a reason, really, why it broke the hearts of so many people and changed the world as we know it.”

Teaching about what happened may prevent further atrocities, says Walsh.

“By respecting one another you can make a difference. That is how I live my life.”

She has two part time jobs, works on the youth advisory council on mental health and volunteers wherever else she thinks she can make positive change.

“There are a lot of situations around the world where women’s rights are not taken into account. I am a woman and I know by working hard, maybe practicing law in other countries, I can help.”

After a scholarship is awarded, the FSWC continue to work closely with the recipients.

“They become representatives of our organization and beacons of human rights on their respective university campuses. We help these students by relieving some of the financial burdens of university and they, in turn, assist FSWC by furthering our mandate of promoting human rights, tolerance and justice in Canada and beyond through their inspiring work,” said Greenfield.

Simon Wiesenthal believed in the importance of creating a more peaceful world. He understood the need for tolerance and respect for all human beings regardless of age, gender, race, religion or sexual orientation.

And Walsh shares those beliefs.

“Educating others is the way to make change. And I am excited to start on my journey.”