Young Alumni Award 2024

Gabriella Sundar Singh seated in a leather armchair with wooden armrests, wearing a black long-sleeve top and light grey plaid pants. She is smiling and looking directly at the camera against a neutral backdrop.

Gabriella Sundar Singh: A Rising Star and Dedicated Mentor 

The University of Guelph is thrilled to announce Gabriella Sundar Singh (BA ’11) as the recipient of the 2024 Young Alumni Award. A Theatre Studies graduate, Gabriella, known to many as Gabi, has steadily become a prominent figure in Canadian theatre, television, and film, recognized for her dynamic performances and commitment to the arts community. 

Gabriella’s journey began at the University of Guelph, where her passion for acting and theatre production flourished. After completing her studies, she further honed her craft at the National Theatre School of Canada, propelling her into a successful career. Her work has since captivated audiences nationwide, particularly through her recurring role on the CBC hit show “Kim’s Convenience” and her standout performances at the Shaw Festival in productions like “The Russian Play,” “Chitra” and “The Importance of Being Earnest.” Gabriella is widely praised for not only her deep commitment to and passion for her craft, but also for her infectious and genuine energy that inspires and leads others.

Gabriella’s impact extends beyond the stage and screen. As an educator and mentor, she shares her expertise with the next generation of artists, leading workshops and mentoring students at institutions such as Brock University, George Brown College, the University of Toronto and high schools across Ontario. Gabriella has also lent her time and voice to creating promotional material for the College of Arts about her experience as a University of Guelph student. Her dedication to nurturing young talent reflects her deep commitment to the arts and her community. 

Gabriella’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has earned several prestigious awards, including the Anna Graham Technical Theatre Studies Scholarship during her time at U of G, Newton Awards and the Saunderson Award from the Shaw Festival, and an Ontario Graduate Scholarship during her Master of Arts in Drama at the University of Toronto. 

Gabriella Sundar Singh exemplifies the spirit of creativity, dedication, and community engagement that the University of Guelph is proud to celebrate. We look forward to watching her continued success as she inspires audiences and artists alike. 