News

Introducing the 2025 Rising Star Bursary Candidates

Feb 27, 2025

Prince Rupert, BC– Prince Rupert District Chamber of Commerce (PRDCC) has partnered with the CMTN Foundation again this year for the Rising Star Bursary Program. This program matches students with Chamber members who have volunteered to become mentors. Mentors and the Chamber introduce students to the local world of business. This valuable networking opportunity supports students’ professional and personal growth, ultimately providing valuable business contacts and helping students develop self-confidence in business. Students gain a clear understanding of the viable options for establishing careers or starting a business without leaving the North Coast. Each student who complete the program is awarded a $500 bursary. 

Three Coast Mountain College Business Administration Diploma students from Prince Rupert were selected for 2025.  The students are Kodina Anaka, Karen Banitsi, and Adeniyi Adeleye. The PRDCC and CMTN Foundation are pleased to introduce them to the community.

Rising Stars 2025 with PRDCC President Kristi Farrell

From left to right are: Kodina Anaka, Karen Banitsi, Kristi Farrell (PRDCC President), and Adeniyi Adeleye.  

Kodina Anaka

I am an ambitious professional with a diverse background spanning law, logistics, and operations. Called to the Nigerian Bar Association, I have over nine years of experience in environmental law, including advocacy and legal strategy. Currently based in Prince Rupert, Canada, I work as a Field Operations Coordinator at Tidal Coast Terminal. My academic foundation includes a law degree, complemented by my passion for effective communication and ability to engage diverse audiences, problem-solving, and leadership. As a board member of a literacy society and a local drop-in center, I am dedicated to empowering communities and fostering development.

Karen Banitsi

I am a versatile and an experienced professional with a Master’s in Forensic Science and a Bachelor’s in Land Reclamation & Rehabilitation. Currently pursuing a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, I bring a strong academic foundation to my diverse work experience. I have a background in law enforcement, community services, and administrative coordination I have over six years of leadership experience, including roles as a Residence Coordinator, Branch Manager, and Narcotics Control Officer. My skills include team supervision, staff training, operational management, and strategic planning.

Adeniyi Adeleye

My name is Adeniyi Victor Adeleye, and I am a postgraduate student in business management at Coast Mountain College with a law degree from Obafemi Awolowo University. I have gained valuable experience in leadership, team management, and customer relations through roles such as detailing supervisor at On the Spotless Car Detailing and office manager at Topseun Business Ltd. I am passionate about entrepreneurship and aspire to build a diverse portfolio of businesses. With project management, financial reporting, and communication skills, I am committed to acquiring practical knowledge and experience to achieve my goals. I also actively volunteer in the Prince Rupert Community.

Congratulations on your Rising Star Awards, Kodina, Karen, and Adeniyi!

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Media Contacts

Heather Bastin 
Executive Director, External Relations  
Coast Mountain College  
250-635-6511 Ext 5494 

Yvonne Koerner 
Executive Director, CMTN Foundation
Coast Mountain College 
250 635 6511 Ext. 5416 

Kristi Farrell
President
Prince Rupert District Chamber of Commerce