Scholarship Spotlight: Isaiah Owens
December 19, 2024
Calling all artists! Apply for the Julie O’Rourke Memorial Scholarship today! This $1,000 award, created in honour of a beloved former Virtual High School staff member, helps students pursuing post-secondary studies in fine arts or design programs. The scholarship aims to support those whose artwork inspires others to live life courageously, positively, and fully. Awarded to one successful candidate every August, this scholarship has helped fund numerous budding artists as they hone their skills and master their crafts.
This year's recipient is Isaiah Owens, a talented 19-year-old from Milton, Ontario, who is currently studying Architectural Science at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). Isaiah's passion for architecture began in Grade 9, when he first became interested in designing buildings. After a teacher suggested he consider architecture as a potential career path, Isaiah immediately saw the connection to his own interests and skills.
The idea of designing structures that become part of history and contribute positively to the world inspires me. I want to create environments where people make memories and share moments — places that become a part of their lives.”
A Design Concept by Isaiah Owens and his partner Tiffany Zou:
"Echoing Waters is a serene pavilion in the last city, combining design elements from TideProof Peaks and SubSolar. Surrounded by harsh terrain, it offers sanctuary from extreme weather."
Isaiah's journey to university has been shaped by his experiences at Virtual High School, where he took courses after high school to better prepare for his future studies. Isaiah, who imagined structures and sketched buildings as a child, enrolled in VHS after hearing friends speak highly of it. The flexibility of VHS allowed him to improve his grades and gain deeper understanding in subjects like functions and physics, which he had struggled with previously.
The individualized approach at VHS was a game-changer. My teacher was fantastic — they were always responsive to questions and genuinely invested in my success. I could get one-on-one help and revisit lessons whenever needed. I loved the flexible schedule, which allowed me to fully understand each concept without feeling rushed.”
Isaiah's interests go beyond academics. He has a strong passion for music, especially R&B, rap, Afrobeats, and jazz. He also enjoys exploring different cuisines, particularly Caribbean, Thai, Indian, and Italian food, and once dreamed of becoming a chef. Fashion is another important form of self-expression for him, and he's working to diversify his wardrobe beyond streetwear.
At Toronto Metropolitan University, Isaiah is particularly excited about his Studio course.
Right now, my favourite course is Studio, a core requirement for architecture students each year. It’s where we bring everything we’ve learned into practice through models, sketches, and designs.”
Building a diverse art portfolio was a crucial part of Isaiah's path to architecture school. Although drawing is his favourite medium, he understood the importance of showcasing a range of skills in his portfolio, including 3D sculptures, paintings, and digital art. One key lesson Isaiah learned that he shares with fellow students is the importance of avoiding comparisons with other artists:
Art is subjective; there will always be artists who are stronger in some areas and others who are still developing. It’s important to focus on doing your best work.”
Studying architecture has been incredibly rewarding for Isaiah, as it allows him to express his creativity and explore his passion for design. Isaiah values the creative freedom that architecture offers and envisions a future where he can own his own architecture firm, which would allow him to take full control over his projects and the ideas he brings to life. In the short term, he hopes to pursue a master's degree in the U.S., where renowned architecture programs would provide further opportunities for growth. Studying abroad would be a dream come true for Isaiah, and cities like Chicago or New York are his ideal destinations.
Isaiah is incredibly grateful for the Julie O'Rourke Memorial Scholarship, which has helped ease the financial burden of attending university. The costs of university are high, especially in his program, which requires additional materials. Living in residence in downtown Toronto has added extra pressure on his finances, and he was unsure how he would cover all his expenses. This scholarship has allowed him to focus more on his studies without having to worry about finances.
Ultimately, Isaiah hopes to continue pursuing a career in architecture for many years to come. His passion for creating spaces that impact communities positively drive him forward, and he looks forward to seeing where his journey takes him. With hard work and determination, we are confident that Isaiah will be able to make his mark in the field of architecture and help create buildings that shape the future!
More from Isaiah's design concept, Echoing Waters: "A skylight creates calming water patterns, while integrated seating provides views and guides water into a pool, regulating humidity and enhancing comfort in the pavilion’s eternal daylight."
Read more about Julie O'Rourke and her lasting legacy: https://www.virtualhighschool.com/news/honouring-a-most-extraordinary-and-special-person-julie-orourke/
For more information about how you can apply for the Julie O'Rourke Memorial Scholarship this summer, visit our Bursaries and Scholarships page. Applications are due August 1st, 2025!