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Festitalia Bursary 2026

Festitalia & Dr. Fernando Bianchi Scholarship

Festitalia, in partnership with the family of the late Dr. Fernando Bianchi, is proud to announce a one-time scholarship opportunity in honour of a respected physician and dedicated community leader. Two scholarships will be awarded to medical students of Italian heritage in recognition of Dr. Bianchi’s lifelong commitment to healthcare, education, and the Italian-Canadian community.

About Dr. Fernando Bianchi

The late Dr. Fernando Bianchi was a highly respected Hamilton rheumatologist who proudly served the community for over 50 years. He was deeply passionate about education, proud of his Italian heritage, and strongly rooted in the Hamilton area. His legacy of service, compassion, and leadership continues to inspire future generations in the medical field.

As a tribute to his remarkable legacy, Festitalia and the Bianchi family are honoured to support students who demonstrate both academic excellence and a strong connection to their Italian heritage.

Scholarship Details

  • Two (2) scholarships of $5,000 each
  • Awarded to students enrolled full-time in a  medical school program

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:
  • Be of Italian origin (through a parent or grandparent)
  • Be enrolled full-time in an accredited medical school program
  • Have completed at least one full year of medical studies
  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Provide official transcripts from the Office of the Registrar as proof of enrollment

Application Requirements

Eligible students must submit:

  1. A typed, double-spaced essay (maximum 250 words) describing:
    • How your Italian heritage has influenced your career choice
    • How you honour and maintain your Italian heritage
  2. Current résumé, including evidence of:
    • Leadership qualities
    • Community involvement and volunteer service
  3. Proof of enrollment from the Office of the Registrar
  4. Statement of Italian heritage, including:
    • Italian family surname(s)
    • Whether heritage is paternal and/or maternal
    • Town/city and region of origin in Italy

Important Dates & Selection Process

  • Application Deadline: February 15, 2026
  • Applications received after the deadline will not be considered
  • Recipients will be notified at least 60 days prior to the September 2026 Festitalia Venetian Regional Food Night Dinner
  • Scholarship recipients are encouraged to attend the dinner to receive their award 
  • Selected recipients will be featured in the Festitalia social media campaign


The selection committee, made up of members of the Bianchi family and the Festitalia Board, will review all applications. All decisions are final and binding, and all information submitted will remain strictly confidential.

How to Apply

Please email your complete application package to:
rita@festitalia.ca
Subject Line: Festitalia / Dr. Bianchi Scholarship
Fernando Bianchi Scholarship

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