VAP Youth Leadership & STEAM scholarship

Omar Wade STEAM Scholarship

The Virginia Africa Partnership Youth Leadership and STEAM Award was established in 2023. Over the past three years, the Virginia Africa Partnership (VAP) has awarded more than 14 scholarships to deserving low-income students dedicated to pursuing studies in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). These opportunities empower students to access promising career paths and improve their long-term economic prospects.

The Virginia Africa Partnership is honored to dedicate this scholarship program to the memory of OMAR WADE, our very first scholarship recipient in 2023. That year, OMAR, a 19 year – old boy was ready to start his academic journey and embrace STEAM studies. Unfortunately, while on a camping trip, OMAR and his two sisters drowned in the James River, causing shock waves to entire organization.

OMAR WADE embodied the values and purpose behind this scholarship—resilience, ambition, and a commitment to excellence. Although his time with us was tragically brief, OMAR WADE continues to inspire our mission. By naming this scholarship in his honor, we aim to preserve his legacy and ensure that his dreams live on through others. Each award given will serve as a tribute to his life and the promise he represented, and as a reminder of the profound difference one person’s story can make in the lives of many

The theme, “Stimulating and Sustaining STEM Entrepreneurship“

2026 Omar Wade STEAM Scholarship
June 13th 2026, 5pm - 9pm Holiday Inn Express, 2000 Staples Mill Road Richmond, VA 23230

The Banquet STEAM Scholarship Dinner, is a key fundraising event that supports the growth of our Youth STEAM Scholarship Program. The 2025 Gala is scheduled for April 19, 2025, at TownePlace Suites Potomac Mills By Marriott, 14090 Shoppers Best Way Woodbridge, VA 22192.

sponsoring our events.

Eligibility Criteria

1. A completed application form (enclosed)
2. A written statement of 1 – 2 pages, outlining applicant’s interest in STEAM subjects and
highlighting reasons candidate must be given this award. Statements must also highlight
both student financial needs and academic strengths
3. High school transcript – can be unofficial transcript
4. Two letters of recommendation – one from a teacher and another from a community leader
(Pastor or Imam, a supervisor at work, and Girl/Boys Scout troupe leaders or sports coaches
5. Resume (showcasing activities and volunteer/community engagement)

2026 Scholarship Application Process Opens on January 15, 2026

All nomination applications must be submitted by May 30, 2025.

Download the application here2026

We sincerely hope that you will consider participating or volunteering in this exciting opportunity to contribute to our mission of nurturing future leaders in STEM and business.

Warm regards,

How to Apply

Please complete this form To Apply

Name *

First

Last

or List of

Date of Birth

Gender *

Email Adress *

Phone Number *

Address *

Address Line 1

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City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

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Educational Information

Current/Last School Attended *

Year of Graduation

Area of Study *

GPA/Percentage/Grades *

Intended College or University

Desired Major *

Community Volunteer Activities

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