At McLevin Dental, our commitment to the Scarborough community extends far beyond cleanings, crowns, and consultations. For over two decades, weve served patients from all walks of lifeand we believe its just as important to support our communitys future as it is to care for its present.
Thats why we launched the McLevin Dental Scholarship: a program dedicated to recognizing and empowering local youth who demonstrate not only academic promise but a passion for health, service, and leadership. Each year, we award scholarships to outstanding students pursuing studies in healthcare, life sciences, and community care. And each year, we are inspired by their ambition, humility, and determination to make a difference.
In this blog, were proud to share the dreams, goals, and personal stories of a few of our past scholarship recipientsyoung leaders who are already creating positive change in Scarborough and beyond.
Sarah D., 2022 Recipient Future Public Health Advocate
Growing up in a multi-generational household, Sarah witnessed firsthand the struggles her grandparents faced when navigating Canadas healthcare systemespecially dental care. Her familys challenges sparked a deep interest in public health, and she set her sights on a career where she could bridge the gap between communities and accessible healthcare.
I saw how limited dental awareness was among seniors in my community, she said. And I knew I wanted to be part of the solution.
With support from the McLevin Dental Scholarship, Sarah is now completing her Bachelor of Health Studies at York University. She volunteers with a local oral health awareness initiative and hopes to one day lead a community-based wellness center that offers both preventative education and affordable care.
Im so thankful to McLevin Dental, Sarah shared. They didnt just give me a scholarshipthey gave me a vote of confidence.
Jason K., 2023 Recipient Aspiring Pediatric Dentist
Jason has wanted to be a dentist since he was eight years old. After a positive experience with orthodontics that boosted his self-confidence and social life, he became passionate about helping other children feel proud of their smiles.
I know how scary the dentist can be, especially for kids, he said. I want to be the kind of provider who makes them feel safe and strong.
Jason is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in biology at the University of Toronto Scarborough. He works part-time as a dental assistant and volunteers with SmileZone, a nonprofit that brings dental education into elementary schools.
For him, the McLevin Dental Scholarship is a step toward his dream of opening a pediatric dental clinic in underserved neighborhoods.
Ill never forget where I came from, Jason said. Scarborough raised meand I want to give back through dentistry.
Amara S., 2021 Recipient Future Mental Health Specialist
While not planning to enter dentistry, Amara is a strong believer in the link between oral health and mental wellness. After battling anxiety and depression in high school, she became passionate about youth mental health advocacy.
Theres a powerful connection between how we feel about ourselves and how we take care of ourselves, she explained. Confidence, hygiene, social anxietyits all connected.
With the help of McLevin Dentals scholarship, Amara is now studying psychology with a minor in community health at TMU (Toronto Metropolitan University). Her dream is to become a clinical therapist focused on adolescents and their families.
Im so grateful McLevin Dental saw value in my voice, she said. They reminded me that healing happens in many formsand that every type of care matters.
More Than Just Financial Aid
The McLevin Dental Scholarship was created not just to ease financial burdens, but to celebrate the voices of young people who share our values: compassion, service, education, and equity in healthcare. Our recipients arent just chosen based on gradestheyre selected because of their desire to lead, uplift others, and contribute to a better, healthier future.
Each recipient receives mentorship from McLevin Dentals team, including opportunities for shadowing, community service involvement, and professional guidance. We stay in touch long after the scholarship has been awardedbecause our goal is to build lasting relationships, not one-time transactions.
Giving Back to a Community That Has Given Us So Much
Scarborough has been our home since 1997. We’ve cared for generations of families, watched children grow into professionals, and supported patients through every stage of life. The McLevin Dental Scholarship is our way of giving backto say thank you to a community that continues to trust us with their care.
We believe that investing in education is investing in wellness. And whether a student becomes a dentist, a nurse, a therapist, or a public health advocate, we know they are shaping a stronger, more compassionate future.
Apply or Nominate Today
If youre a Scarborough high school senior planning to pursue post-secondary education in a health-related fieldor if you know a student with a passion for making a differenceconsider applying for or nominating someone for the next McLevin Dental Scholarship cycle.