Blackwater scholarship invests in youth

“One of my goals while developing and now operating the Blackwater Mine has been to make meaningful efforts towards reconciliation and create generational opportunities, particularly for youth, in Indigenous communities,” Dean said in a statement.

He added that Artemis Gold has built strong relationships with Indigenous partners throughout the region and hopes the new scholarship will help develop the next generation of Indigenous leaders in mining.

The award will do more than provide financial assistance. Successful applicants may also gain access to mentorship opportunities and internships with Artemis Gold, giving students direct exposure to the industry while they complete their studies.

The program will be administered by Beedie Luminaries, a British Columbia-based foundation that supports students pursuing post-secondary education. The organization will oversee the application and selection process while also providing wraparound support services to scholarship recipients throughout their academic journey.

To be eligible, students must attend a public post-secondary institution in British Columbia. While the award is open to Indigenous students across the province, organizers say every effort will be made to select candidates from communities in the Blackwater Mine region.

The first application period will open on Nov. 2, 2026, and close on Dec. 14, 2026.

The Blackwater Mine achieved its first gold and silver pour in January 2025 and officially declared commercial production on May 1, 2025. Artemis Gold says the new scholarship program is another step in ensuring the mine creates lasting benefits beyond its economic impact, helping Indigenous youth access education and build careers in one of British Columbia’s key industries.

by Stephen Lewyta

Blackwater scholarship invests in youth

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