BME Graduate Receives C$40,000 McCall MacBain Finalist Award for Leadership Potential

Recently established with a historic C$200 million gift (about $44.8 billion HUF), the McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. The top 280 candidates participated in the first round of interviews in October and November, and 91 – including Victoria Naburuk – were invited to Montreal for final interviews in March, with travel expenses covered.

Recipients were chosen based on exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.

Originally from Kenya, Victoria studied Civil Engineering at BME as a Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship holder.

During her studies, Victoria mentored incoming international students and supported their integration into life in Hungary. She was named Mentor of the Year in 2023. Victoria also organized a soccer team, led youth sustainability initiatives with YES Europe, and worked part-time throughout her degree. She volunteered with Impact Hub Budapest, helping organize activities for social entrepreneurs, and recently returned to her hometown, where she is assisting with building construction.

Victoria aims to continue her studies in civil engineering at McGill. Her research experience includes examining the potential of using reusable structural materials in the construction of new buildings.

“My undergraduate studies reinforced the importance of service, curiosity and community. Studying in Hungary motivated me to actively seek out spaces where I could learn, grow, and support others. 

Volunteering, working part-time, and mentoring others continue to shape how I approach leadership, learning and opportunity as a McCall MacBain Finalist,” said Victoria.

“During my graduate studies, I aspire to deepen my research in sustainable construction by exploring innovative structural solutions that minimize waste. I look forward to learning from mentors, collaborating with professionals across disciplines, contributing to the McCall MacBain community and staying active by playing soccer with the Martlets.”

“These scholarships go beyond financial support. They’re about investing in the leadership potential of individuals who dare to pursue unconventional paths and care deeply about improving the lives of others,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill.

“Every McCall MacBain Scholar has participated in six different interviews to earn this opportunity,” said Natasha Sawh, CEO of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “In September, they will join a diverse, interdisciplinary network of graduate studef change-makers from varied fields and walks of life.” 

Applications will open in June 2026 for the 2027 cohort. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.

Rector’s Office, Communications Directorate