Former McMaster student, Maryanne Oketch was front-and-center of the reality television world last night after being named the winner of the hit tv show Survivor.

Oketch became the winner of Survivor 42 after a dominant 7-1-0 vote at the final tribal council.

In a competition of physical and mental challenges, the 24-year-old from Ajax spent 26 days building alliances, securing immunity, and convincing the jury to crown her as the sole survivor. Oketch won for her strategy, but also for her big personality.

Oktech’s win marks the second time in a row a Canadian has taken home the top prize. Niagara Falls’ Erika Caspunan won Survivor 41.

Oketch graduated in 2020 with a degree in Integrated Science and as a member of McMaster’s Students Union. She was also a key advocate for Black and racialized students. Oktech is the first Black woman in 20 years to win.

Maryanne says she isn’t sure what she wants to do with the $1 million prize but going back to school is likely the plan.