Read More About Previous Scholars' Experiences...
Keighlan Gustus - 2025 Recipient
Coral Beck - 2025 Recipient
Attending the Association of Professional Piercers Conference for the first time in June was truly an indescribable experience that has helped shaped the strength and path of my career as a piercer. Receiving a scholarship for my first attendance was not only an honour, but also a gateway to opportunities, education, and connections that I would have struggled to access otherwise. This experience deepened my understanding of the industry and reignited my passion for the craft, giving me the tools and confidence to grow both personally and professionally.
Without the support of the Deacon Mathewson Memorial Scholarship, I would not have been able to attend the conference without experiencing stress throughout the week.
The cost of traveling from Saskatchewan to Las Vegas combined with time away from work would have placed a significant strain on my finances that would’ve made it very difficult for me to attend APP. Thanks to this scholarship, I was able to go without facing financial hardship and strain on my family, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience. I could focus on learning, connecting, and growing, and that made the conference not just accessible, but more enjoyable as an already anxious “first timer”.
One of the most impactful aspects of the conference was the ability to engage directly with experienced piercers through workshops, classes, and casual conversations.
These interactions brought so much valuable experience and information. The generosity of others sharing their experiences created a welcoming space for learning.
Being able to ask questions, hear stories, and see techniques demonstrated in real time (in the new APP workshops) helped me connect theory with practice in a hands on way.
Aside from the technical skills I have gained through my experience, I’ve come away with connections I never thought imaginable. Attending APP has brought me some of the closest friends I have had in my life; the warmth of the piercer community is something unmatched in other industries. The relationships I have come away with have brought such deep joy, laughter, and growth.
Since returning, the skills and knowledge I gained have been directly applicable in my day-to-day services. From a better understanding bevel theory, anatomy and marking, to pairing jewelry more thoughtfully, to applying microbiology principles for safer procedures—my work has improved so much. The conference didn’t just change the way I pierce; it gave me a better confidence serve my clients. I am now a more capable piercer with an even deeper passion for this craft, and I owe that growth to the opportunity that the Deacon Mathewson Memorial Scholarship gave me.
– Keighlan Gustus
When I first saw there was a scholarship for Canadian piercers I had two thoughts: First, that it was an amazing opportunity for whoever would receive it, and second, it wasn’t in my plan to attend this year; so don’t apply. Thankfully, I had several friends and family members who encouraged me to apply, regardless. Making it to the interview section was rewarding in itself, but finding out that I was one of two people who were going to the APP 2025 conference left me speechless.
Coming from a small town in Northern BC, it has always felt isolating to be a piercer. It feels like everyone is only there for themselves. No support, no encouragement, and absolutely no accepting of new blood to the game. Then I attended a course that connected me with supportive and like minded individuals in 2024. This encouraged me to feel like there is more to the piercing community, and I was proven correct when I attended the APP 2025. There were people from all over the world, and even though there were people I met whose language I didn’t speak, we were able to find ways to connect and communicate. Our love and drive to be part of the piercing community allowed for common ground.
While attending the lectures at the conference, I realized how thorough and well researched each topic had been. The drive that everyone put into their classes was so apparent, you could tell they were very passionate about the subject matter.
It didn’t take me long to realize that just taking notes and drawing graphs wasn’t going to be enough. I had to bring my phone to take photos when allowed, and remind myself to look further into certain subjects that I had an interest in. Being able to sit in lecture halls with people I consider role models, and hear them speak about new techniques, history, and even how bacteria affects how we process instruments, was an experience of a lifetime.
There has always been a drive for me to become an APP member but even more so after this conference. I had been following the guidelines and working on getting the studios where I work up to code. There is still plenty to do, but with new supportive friends and fellow piercers, it is a goal which seems attainable.
There are no words to express the gratitude I have to the committee of the Deacon Matheson Scholarship for selecting me. They were very supportive in helping choose which courses to attend, networking with veteran piercers, and providing support afterwards to see how the conference had changed us.
I never had the opportunity to meet Deacon, if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be where I am today as a piercer.
Thank you so much to everyone involved in The Deacon Matheson Scholarship. Your hard work, support and drive has helped two Canadian piercers in the adventure in this community. I can’t wait to see future recipients and how it will help them grow.
– Coral Beck