Alexandra Wilson-Zegil is one of 20 recipients from across Canada receiving up to $70,000 over four years for her post-secondary education through the TD Scholarship for Community Leadership program.

Wilson-Zegil was chosen for the scholarship thanks to her work in bringing technology to youth and seniors on Manitoulin Island.

The Grade 12 Manitoulin Secondary Student has been on the robotics team for four years and prompted the team to hold coding workshops and presentations at elementary schools across 171 kilometres.

She has also published a children’s book about robots protecting the environment and delivered tech workshops for senior citizens, teaching them cellphone skills to stay connected and live safely in isolated conditions.

“With the extra freedom that this money grants me, I’m hoping to continue writing books into university as well as continuing community tech help sessions,” Wilson-Zegil said.

When she applied for the scholarship, she thought there would be tough competition and many applicants. She wrote an essay in support of her application and a few months later, received an interview.

“I didn’t think I’d get this far in the process,” Wilson-Zegil said.

“I’m sitting in my English class, and I get an email and I’m like, ‘Oh, from TD — what’s this? And it says, ‘private and confidential’ in big letters and I’m like, ‘Oh my gosh I just won.’”