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Giving Day ambassador Aly Velji shares Bow Valley College's impact
And as our first-ever Giving Day ambassador, he's excited to share the impact of Bow Valley College with other Calgarians and encourage others to give back and help inspire a brighter future for our students.
"Attending Bow Valley College was an amazing experience for me," says Aly. "Not only did they offer me a great education but also real-life tools of how to be a decorator and run my own business. I'm so glad I chose Bow Valley College for my post-secondary education.
Aly attended Bow Valley College's Interior Decorating and Merchandising program, graduating with the program's first class in 2003 with all the skills necessary to become one of Canada's top designers. He went on to start his own company, Alykhan Velji Designs, where he creates timeless spaces for residential and commercial clients. He's also half of the Style Guys, Canadian design, lifestyle, and décor experts who travel the country to share their expertise.
"My mother attended Bow Valley College when it was the Alberta Vocational School. So when I decided to return to school, the college was first on my list," says Aly of his decision to attend Bow Valley College after spending time figuring out what his passion was. And he found that passion at Bow Valley College. "The Interior Decorating program was a perfect fit. I would not be where I am today without Bow Valley College."
"I give back to Bow Valley College because they offered me so much. Students are the future, and anytime we can make positive change for them, it can make a real positive impact."
As our inaugural Giving Day ambassador, Aly wants to encourage you to give back in whatever way you can. "Any amount you give— whether it's one dollar, 100, or 1000 — every dollar matters," says Aly. "We have to invest in our future, and that future is our students."
Your gifts on Giving Day can make a real impact and help ensure that students have access to the funds they need to complete their studies. In 2020/21, more than 655 students received more than $990,000 in student awards and bursaries made possible by everyday donors. Join the movement and help us inspire our students to reach higher and continue their studies. Make your gift today!
