SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

Since 1990, The CODA International Millie Brother Scholarship has helped adult, hearing children of deaf adults reach their higher education goals through the administration of this important award. Over the last 30 years, the scholarship has grown to include recipients from several dozen countries, and we are committed to this work going forward. 

The 2024 recipients of this scholarship are bright, tenacious, and lead with compassion for others. Their commitment to their education and their communities is one to be celebrated - and we believe it is these things that will push them toward further success.  

Joshua Jackson, USA 

Joshua believes his experience growing up with a deaf mother and deaf-blind father deeply impacted and fueled his determination to advocate for inclusivity in the aviation industry. Reinforcing his perseverance, empathy and drive for change within the aviation industry; Joshua envisions himself implementing policies that ensure equal opportunities for all employees as an airline industry leader. 

Aliya Ahsan, Pakistan 

Growing up as a Coda in Pakistan, Aliya witnessed firsthand how pivotal it is to spark discussions and implement advocacy work for those in the deaf community. Aliya is a part-founder of CODA Pakistan, which is focused on providing support and guidance to Kodas and all Codas in need. Working alongside government organizations, Aliya plans on using this collaboration to empower deaf individuals and improve education standards in a marginalized community by furthering her education in formal interpreting classes and teacher certifications where she can continue to provide aid as a teacher in a deaf institute.

Vanessa Richards, USA 

As a Maine resident, Vanessa remembers October 25th all too well. Impacted by the horrific day in Lewiston, she was reminded how strong and close-knit the deaf community is based on the support she and her family received. She is studying childhood education and has high honors on the college president list. She believes she can be a tool for future students to push through hardships and serve as a daily reminder that they are loved through community.

Jasmine Badman, USA 

Jasmine is the first in her family to attend college and break the generational cycle of limited access to higher education. Focused on pursuing a degree in dentistry, Jasmine is confident her ability to use sign language will impact the medical field while providing accessible and inclusive healthcare to those in need. 

Mbaidiguissem Emmanuel Beosso, Nigeria 

Mbaidiguissem Emmanuel believes his parents taught him the importance of hard work and perseverance. Frustrated with the current climate in Nigeria and the negative outlook of having deaf parents, Mbaidiguissem used that opportunity to propel him further and decided to become an interpreter to challenge the narrative that his town placed. He proved them wrong by being a top scholar in his higher education endeavors.

Mallika Sheth, USA 

Mallika grew up frustrated with the lack of smooth communication she witnessed her deaf father go through in a hearing world. Inspired by AI live captioning technology, Mallika decided to pursue a career in technology focused on creating AI solutions that not only address the communication challenges faced by deaf and hard of hearing individuals but will also foster inclusivity, equity, societal well-being, and a sense of belonging within their communities. Mallika believes their degree in STEM can optimize technology to serve the sensory-disabled in creative ways.