The TELUS Friendly Future Foundation's Together for Tomorrow Gala raised a record-breaking $3 million on June 18, 2026, creating new opportunities for underserved youth across Canada through post-secondary bursaries and community programs. More than 800 guests gathered at the TELUS Centre for Performance and Learning in Toronto for an evening highlighted by a headline performance from four-time Grammy award winner Lionel Richie.
Record-Breaking Fundraising for Youth Support
Funds raised will fuel the foundation's goal of providing more than 500 bursaries and 500 charitable grants this year, supporting thousands of young Canadians facing financial, social and educational barriers. The event also welcomed TELUS Student Bursary recipients and grant beneficiaries as honored guests.
Presented by TELUS, the gala brought together leaders from Canada's business, philanthropic, technology and arts communities. Support will fund the TELUS Student Bursary program and TELUS Community Board Grants, providing bursaries, mentorship and community-based programs to remove barriers to education, employment and well-being.
Entwistle Technology Bursary Launch
The evening builds on the recent announcement of TELUS President and CEO Darren Entwistle and Fiona Entwistle's landmark $1 million personal donation to the foundation. This gift officially launched the Entwistle Technology Bursary, designed to open doors for youth in financial need pursuing post-secondary education in science, math and technology who are committed to making a positive difference in their communities. The donation has inspired further community support, as evidenced by the exceptional gala fundraising results.
“When we bring together passionate supporters, business leaders, philanthropists and community partners who are all dedicated to empowering young Canadians to reach their full potential, we are investing in the innovators and changemakers of tomorrow,” said Darren Entwistle. “The generosity demonstrated tonight will help remove barriers and create pathways to education for Canada's next generation of leaders who exemplify a passion for social purpose in their communities! The Together for Tomorrow Gala, and the $3M raised by generous supporters, is a testament to our belief that doing well in business and doing good in our communities are mutually inclusive.”
Impact on Youth Facing Barriers
“Our third annual gala united Canadians from coast to coast who believe in the power of investing in youth,” said Nimmi Kanji, Executive Director of the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation. “The funds raised at the gala will directly support our mission to remove barriers and ensure that every young person in Canada, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to reach their full potential. From affordability pressures, mental health challenges and other barriers to accessing education and employment, too many young Canadians face obstacles that can limit their potential. The support generated through our gala will help ensure those barriers do not define their future.”
