Nicolas Bozinov is a second-generation Canadian-Macedonian born in Markham, Ontario. Both sides of his ancestry come from Macedonian roots. Nicolas is in his first year at York University studying Applied Mathematics. However, it took a lot of work for him to get here. He has put much effort and dedication into preparing for his future studies. Nicolas displays confidence in his ability to handle things that seem difficult. Nicolas’ goal is to improve his problem-solving skills through Mathematics and assist others with ways to think about challenging problems.

“The Bitove Scholarship is the key that unlocks the door to my dreams, turning aspirations into tangible opportunities. I hope this motivates Macedonians to pursue their passion because if I can do it, they can too.“

Joshua Janevski is a first generation born Canadian, where he grew up surrounded by his Macedonian immigrant family in Toronto. His cultural heritage is deeply rooted within him and he carries it with immense pride. Joshua has always had a passion for science, which started at a young age. This has now translated into his academic career where he is studying Human Biology and Immunology at the University of Toronto. Taking his interest in medical science a step further, Joshua currently holds a Research Assistant role at St. Michael’s hospital where he investigates the effects of a novel drug in reducing inflammation seen within Atopic Dermatitis. This role has shown Joshua the impact scientific innovations can have on general healthcare, but also down to an individual level. Joshua also enjoys getting involved with his community, both in the academic setting and in his hometown. At the University of Toronto, Joshua currently holds the position of Vice-President of the Immunology Student Association (IMMSA).

Joshua also is a tutor and assists students in science, mathematics and French language, as he completed a French Immersion academic program where he received a bilingual recognition. Additionally, he has swam competitively with the Pickering Swim Club where he was able to value the meaning of a team and the autonomy of an athlete. Joshua plans to use this scholarship towards his education and future endeavours, and applauds the Bitove Foundation and Nova Generation for creating this valuable opportunity for Macedonian students to achieve their ambitions and successes.

“This scholarship is a deeply meaningful validation of my dedication and achievements. It affirms that my hard work has been recognized and provides me with the opportunity to further excel and contribute to my academic and personal growth.”

Born and raised in New Jersey, Angelina Maleska is a first-generation American. Her Macedonian heritage comes from her father’s side. Currently, she is a second-year law student at Tulane Law School in New Orleans, Louisiana and is pursuing a certificate in International and Comparative Law. At Tulane, Angelina is involved as a member of the Tulane Law Review, student attorney of the Legislative & Administrative Advocacy Clinic, Vice President of the International Law Society, and Treasurer of the First-Generation Law Student Association. Prior to law school, Angelina earned her Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University. Upon graduating, she remained in Washington, DC and worked as a paralegal on international trade remedy matters.

In addition to speaking Macedonian, Angelina speaks Polish, which she learned from her mother. Growing up, she stayed highly involved in her local Macedonian folk-dance group, Macedonian church, Polish church, and respective language schools. In her free time, Angelina enjoys listening to podcasts and exploring art galleries.

“I am deeply grateful to the Bitove Foundation and Nova Generation for carving out a space where Macedonian students feel empowered to pursue their lifelong dreams. With the support of those in our community, we are capable of reassuring the next generation that through hard work, determination, and strong values, success can be achieved.“

Nikola is a second generation Macedonian born and raised in Toronto, Canada. He is attending his first year at the University of Guelph in the Gordon Lang School of Business program.

Nikola is an active member of the Macedonian-Canadian community in Toronto. He is an alumni of the Macedonian Folklore Ensemble Makedonka. He also has a passion for sports and physical fitness. He played competitive Basketball for Mumba Basketball and won the LOSSA Championship for Rugby in his final year of High School. Nikola is looking forward to pursuing sports in University while working hard to achieve his academic success.

“I am very grateful to receive this scholarship in pursuit of my academic goals and in honour of  Mr. John L. N. Bitove. It is an honour and privilege to be recognized by the Nova Generation Bitove Scholarship. Thank you for supporting Macedonian students.”

Elena Temelkova was born in Toronto to Macedonian parents from Veles and Selo Omorani. Her father came to Canada at age 23 with a duffel bag of clothes and no family but has managed to create a successful life in Canada while still giving back to Makedonija. The determination and work ethic of her parents has motivated her to push for greatness.

Elena holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto specializing in forensic psychology and biology. She graduated with high distinction in 2021. She is currently pursuing a master of arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and is maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She plans to work as a psychotherapist working with Balkan youth and adolescents while tackling her business endeavours on the side. She aspires to break the stigma of mental health in the Macedonian community. Elena is currently working full-time in youth mental health research at the Hospital for Sick Children.

Elena became involved with Generation M as one of their first regional representatives for Mississauga in 2016-2018. She served as the Vice-President of the Macedonian Youth Network Mississauga Branch in 2019. She aspires to reconnect with the Macedonian youth in Mississauga and follow in her father’s footsteps as a patriot for Macedonia.

This scholarship is dear to my heart and I am extremely grateful to have been chosen and represented among other amazing Macedonian youth. I am excited to continue my studies with the help of Nova Generation and build a future my family will be proud of.

“Millions of Macedonians before me had to fight fiercely for their identity. It is the resilience of my ancestors that has paved the way for me to be here today. I have the privilege to live out their deepest aspirations by openly and unapologetically embracing my Macedonian heritage.”