The Torch’s Design Team conducts their work in the McMaster Manufacturing Research Institute (MMRI), a state-of-the-art applied research and innovation centre affiliated with the Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.
Meet The 2025 Team
“Engineering a torch that carries the light of Canadian heritage, resilience, and remembrance into the future”
What is your background? Do you have any connection to the First or Second World War, any other conflict, or remembrance in general?
“I am a Sri Lankan Tamil, and my cultural background has deep connections to historical conflict due to the Sri Lankan Civil War. I truly understand the importance of remembrance, resilience, and honoring those affected by conflict. Working on this project feels personal because remembering history and honoring those affected by conflict is something that resonates universally.”
How has your involvement in The Canadian Remembrance Torch project influenced you?
“Being involved in The Canadian Remembrance Torch project has been a valuable learning experience. It has helped me realize how engineering can go beyond solving technical problems and also preserve history while creating meaningful symbols. This project has pushed me to think creatively and consider the social impact of our designs, which has made my experience as an engineering student even more fulfilling.”
What is your background? Do you have any connection to the First or Second World War, any other conflict, or remembrance in general?
“I was born in India and am now proud to call myself a Canadian citizen. While my personal history may not include a direct connection to the First or Second World War, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. Growing up in India, a country with its own history of resilience and struggle, I’ve always understood the importance of honoring those who serve. By participating in this project, I aim to contribute to Canada’s legacy of remembrance and ensure the stories of bravery and sacrifice continue to inspire generations”.
How has your involvement in The Canadian Remembrance Torch project influenced you?
“Working on The Canadian Remembrance Torch project has made me a better engineer by teaching me to design with purpose and meaning. It pushed me to balance technical precision with symbolic significance, using various design methods to ensure functionality while honoring the legacy. This experience has deepened my understanding of how engineering can tell stories, connect people, and create lasting impact in society.”
What is your background? Do you have any connection to the First or Second World War, any other conflict, or remembrance in general?
“I come from a Sri Lankan Tamil background, where my community has experienced significant military conflicts. This personal history gives me a deep understanding of the impact of war and the importance of remembrance. While I don’t have direct ties to the World Wars, I can relate to the meaning behind The Canadian Remembrance Torch and its role in honoring sacrifices made for peace and freedom.”
How has your involvement in The Canadian Remembrance Torch project influenced you?
“Working on The Canadian Remembrance Torch project has deepened my understanding of the importance of remembrance and resilience. It has given me the opportunity to connect my personal background with a broader historical perspective while applying my engineering skills in a meaningful way.”
