This year we received many exceptional submissions for our John Abbass Sr. Memorial Scholarship. In applying for the scholarship, all candidates had to be pursuing their first post-secondary institution and have a solid academic record with at least an 80% grade point average. They had to have some experience, exposure or interest in becoming a part of their family’s business, or pursuing their own business interests. Additionally, our judges looked for leadership and service in their community or in their extracurricular activities. 

FBA is pleased to announce the winner of this year’s scholarship is Monique Gourley of Stewiacke, Nova Scotia!. 

Monique graduated from École Acadienne de Truro in 2023, and is currently in the midst of obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Accounting and minor in Marketing at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton. During her high school years, Monique was Student-Council Vice President, Class President, and was a recipient of the prestigious Lieutenant Governor’s Award. In addition to her academic achievements, she was deeply involved in athletics, captaining the hockey team and soccer team where she was awarded MVP. Monique also dedicated her time to volunteering as a junior assistant soccer coach and other various programs at her school. In her spare time, Monique continues to play AAA senior women’s soccer for Halifax City alongside her older sister Olivia, and enjoys volunteering at the SPCA, local retirement homes in Truro and anywhere she can lend a helping hand in her community. 

Entrepreneurship is in Monique’s blood, as she represents the fifth generation of her family pursuing an interest in business. Her early experiences ranged from selling strawberries and pumpkins on her family farm, to working at Fox Hollow, the family-owned golf course. These roles have given her a unique insight into the challenges and rewards of running a family business.

Monique is the daughter of FBA member Christopher Gourley, owner of Summit Vehicle Storage and Airport Parking. While she has previously worked in her family’s businesses, this summer, Monique is forging her own path and has started a position at Prestige Homes as a Customer Service and Sales Representative where she is gaining incredible hands-on experience in the daily operations of the company.

Congratulations Monique! With your extensive knowledge and rich experiences in family business, we are confident that you will continue to achieve success in all of your future endeavours!