Fiona Mariah's journey is a testament to the resilience and determination instilled in her by her immigrant family from the Philippines. Born in Nueva Ecija and immigrating to Canada at a tender age of three, Fiona's parents' sacrifices laid the foundation for her aspirations and achievements.

Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, Fiona remains deeply connected to her Filipino heritage, fluent in Tagalog and immersed in her cultural roots. Now a senior at Virden Collegiate Institute, Fiona's dedication to academic excellence shines as she consistently ranks in the top three grade averages.

Inspired by her mother's unwavering work ethic, Fiona balances her academic pursuits with her passion for basketball, excelling on the court and in the classroom. Her commitment to both academics and athletics is matched only by her dedication to her job at the Virden Co-op Deli, where she diligently saves for her post-secondary education.

This fall Fiona will be pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science degree at Providence University College while playing for their women’s basketball team. Her ultimate goal is to pursue a Doctor of Optometry at the University of Waterloo, driven by a lifelong fascination with eye care and inspired by her experiences shadowing a local optometrist.

Beyond her academic and athletic achievements, Fiona is a dedicated community leader, volunteering her time to mentor younger students, organize school events, and serve at her local church. Her commitment to giving back to her community reflects her belief in the importance of uplifting others and fostering a culture of support and empowerment.