Maestro Fresh Wes celebrates induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame with new scholarship at NSCC

Nov. 07, 2023 – Media Release

Halifax, NS -- Maestro Fresh Wes, known as the godfather of Canadian hip-hop, has created a scholarship at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) to celebrate his induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, announced earlier today.

Wes has partnered with NSCC Foundation to establish the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship, an annual award dedicated to African Nova Scotian and Black students in Trades and Transportation programs at NSCC Akerley Campus. As a 2017 NSCC Honorary Diploma recipient, this scholarship is Wes’ way of paying it forward. His vision is to provide hope and access to youth and individuals looking to pursue skilled trades as an in-demand career in Nova Scotia.

"Maestro Fresh Wes is a Canadian icon. We are honoured that he is stepping up in support of NSCC students,” says Jill Provoe, VP, Academic and Equity, NSCC.

“Using his platform as an inductee into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame to encourage Black students to enter into skilled trades exemplifies his outstanding leadership and commitment to community. We look forward to working with Wes to grow the scholarship through a shared vision to meet the workforce needs of the province and to promote Black Excellence.”

"For over three decades I've helped to build the Black music industry of Canada. Now, I am planning to inspire Black builders of Canada. I salute Nova Scotia Community College and Akerley Campus for assisting me to continue to affect positive change," says Maestro Fresh Wes.

Donations to the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship can be made through NSCC Foundation at nscc.ca/mfw.

About NSCC

NSCC is committed to building Nova Scotia's economy and quality of life through education and innovation, transforming Nova Scotia one learner at a time. NSCC offers more than 140 career-oriented programs throughout the province at our 14 campuses, including our online eCampus. Programs are offered through five academic schools – Access, Education and Language; Business and Creative Industries; Health and Human Services; Technology and Environment; and Trades and Transportation. These reflect Nova Scotia’s labour market needs and opportunities. An annual survey of NSCC graduates shows that 91% are employed one year after graduation, most in their field of study, with 93% of those employed living and working in Nova Scotia.

About Maestro Fresh Wes

Wes Williams “Maestro Fresh Wes” is a Canadian rapper, producer, actor, author and motivational speaker. Referred to as the godfather of Canadian hip-hop, Wes is the first Black Canadian artist to have a recording reach platinum status in Canada. He will also be the first hip-hop artist inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. As an NSCC Honorary Diploma recipient, Wes has always felt a connection and passion for the College’s work and its impact on the lives of students, their families and communities.

For more information

Derek Blois, Communications Associate, NSCC Foundation
902-430-8541,

Sasha Stoltz Publicity, Maestro Fresh Wes
416-579-4804,