Lessons from SlimmDuck Scholarship Winner Venise Williams

For Venise Williams, going back to school wasn’t just about earning a credential – it was about rediscovering her confidence after years of putting her family and career first. As a mother and federal public servant with nearly two decades of experience, she had long encouraged her children to pursue post-secondary education.

But deep down, she felt something was missing – her chance to pursue her own education.

“I always wanted to come to TMU,” she says. “When my kids went off to school, I realized it was finally time to invest in myself. I had been focused on supporting everyone else for so long, but I wanted to prove to myself that I could do this too.”

After years away from the classroom, Williams faced doubts about returning to academic life. “It’s scary at first,” she admits, adding that she wondered if she still had what it takes.

That’s when she discovered Spanning the Gaps, a program at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Chang School designed to help adults reacclimatize to learning and rebuild their academic confidence.

“Once I read about it, I knew it was the perfect fit,” she says. “The program helps you get your footing again.”

That decision not only changed her trajectory – it led to her being named the 2025 SlimmDuck Scholarship recipient, an honour recognizing learners who embody courage, purpose, and perseverance in pursuing education. Venise was presented with the scholarship at a recent award ceremony at The Chang School.

“I’m still partially in disbelief,” she says. “It’s one less stress to think about, and I’m so grateful to have that support as I start this new chapter.”

Strength Rooted in Family

Venise’s determination is deeply tied to her upbringing. Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her family, she learned early on the power of perseverance and self-belief.

That same resolve continues to guide her as she balances work, study, and family life – all while staying grounded in her Jamaican heritage. “Music and food go hand in hand,” she explains. “When I cook, I play reggae – it reminds me of my mom. Growing up, Saturdays were for cleaning the house and blasting music. That rhythm and tradition keep me connected to my roots.”

Venise remains active in her community, having volunteered with the Toronto Caribbean Carnival Committee for several years and worked as a seasonal employee for the TD Jerk Fest in Toronto.

Venise with her son, Javon (left), and her daughter Janèe (right), at a friend’s 50th birthday gala

Recognizing Resilience and Purpose

For former Toronto Raptors Chris Boucher, who is the Founder of the SlimmDuck Foundation, Venise’s story embodies what the SlimmDuck award stands for.

“Venise’s story really stood out to me,” says Chris. “It shows what hard work, patience, and believing in yourself can do.”

That’s what the SlimmDuck Scholarship is all about: helping people keep going, no matter where they are in their journey. I’m proud of her and excited to see what’s next.

— Chris Boucher, Toronto Raptor and Founder of the SlimmDuck Foundation

Link Kabadyundi, Board Member with the SlimmDuck Foundation, echoes that sentiment.

“Venise exudes a strong sense of purpose and great resilience,” says Link. “She’s turning her life experiences into motivation to keep learning and to give back through public service. That kind of drive is what we’re proud to celebrate with this award. We’re also grateful to everyone at TMU’s Chang School and Spanning the Gaps program who go above and beyond to support students in continuing education.”

Looking Ahead

As for Venise, success means continuing to grow in her career while preparing for a comfortable retirement – and setting an example for others. “I want to move forward in my public service career and show my kids and grandson that it’s never too late to learn,” she says. “Education changes lives. It changed mine.”

Venise with her grandson, Kaius

For Venise Williams, success means advancing her career, preparing for a comfortable retirement, and setting an example.

Venise also focuses on imparting her mother’s wisdom and life lessons to the next generation. "Being a mom, grandmother, and public service worker takes balance and prioritizing," she notes. "I will use that discipline to succeed in school and be there to get my grandson off on the right foot when he starts school. Education changes lives. It changed mine.”