2020-2021 SCHOLARSHIP & BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS - Investing in our future - New ...
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Investing in our future
2020–2021
SCHOLARSHIP & BURSARY
AWARD RECIPIENTS
2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 1
LETTER FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
“we are making
a difference and
that difference, in
turn, will positively
influence the future
for us all.”
Mike Bonshor Kory Wilson Clifford White
Director, New Relationship Trust Foundation Director, New Relationship Trust Foundation Director, New Relationship Trust Foundation
On behalf of the New Relationship Trust Foundation side of BC and now live in the province. While most This year, we welcomed the National Indian
and our partner organizations, we are pleased students are studying in BC, some students are Brotherhood Trust Fund as a new partner. Kory Wilson
to present the 2020–21 Scholarship and Bursary completing their studies at institutions as far away This partnership supported the NIB Trust – New Relationship Trust Foundation
Award Recipient Brochure. This yearly highlight as New York University and The European Graduate NRT Foundation Education awards as eighteen
allows us to honour and celebrate the educational School in Switzerland. bursaries and twenty-nine new scholarships for
success of each award recipient. well-deserving students. We are grateful for our Clifford White
Based on feedback, the recipients express an over- returning partners: The First Nations Health New Relationship Trust Foundation
The NRTF awards support Indigenous students whelming amount of appreciation for the award Authority, Canfor, Drillwell Enterprises Ltd.,
across the province as they pursue their post- as many are struggling juggling multiple priorities and Peace Hills Trust. Together, we are closing
secondary goals and dream careers. Representing and responsibilities on top of trying to make ends the gap and investing in the future. Michael Bonshor
nearly every trade and academic discipline — from meet. Many recipients indicate that they would not New Relationship Trust Foundation
welding to culinary arts; nursing to business; be able to pursue their academic goals without the We trust that you will enjoy this brochure and
education to law —these outstanding students award. We are grateful to be able to support these recognise the strength of the students and the
will be the workforce of the future and champions students, but we know there are many more that hope for our collective future. If you would like to
for our Nations. We are extremely proud and we cannot support. support the New Relationship Trust Foundation
grateful to be part of their journey. to continue to fund students, please reach out to
With the increasing Indigenous population, the become part of this critical initiative.
In 2020-21, we provided funding support for a demand for scholarships and bursaries increases
record 321 students. This is the fourth year in which each year. Though we have been able to expand Respectfully,
we have supported Métis students along with First our support due to the generous support of our
Nations students who are from communities out- donors, we continue to seek more partnerships.
2 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 3
INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE
ABOUT
NEW RELATIONSHIP
TRUST FOUNDATION
NEW
RELATIONSHIP The New Relationship Trust Foundation (NRT Foundation) is the largest Indigenous-run
education charity in British Columbia (BC). Since 2008, the New Relationship Trust and
TRUST
NRT Foundation have awarded 3,108 scholarships and bursaries totaling $14.3 million in
post-secondary financial aid.
By investing in Indigenous post-secondary
FOUNDATION
education, the NRT Foundation is building
the capacity of our communities, enhancing
employment opportunities for graduates, and
creating the skilled workforce that will enable
BC to meet its future economic and social
Our Mission:
development needs.
To assist Indigenous peoples in BC separately
and collectively to meet their education goals.
The two primary objectives of the NRT Foundation are to endow $30 million for a
perpetual education fund while at the same time continuing the scholarship and
bursary commitment to Indigenous student education.
4 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 5
SCHOLARSHIP AND RECIPIENT DATABASE
BURSARY AWARDS The NRT Foundation maintains a database of past scholarship and bursary award
recipients. The individuals in the database are contacted by the NRT Foundation to inform
The NRT Foundation and BC First Nations communities realize the importance of them about employment and internship opportunities. This service is available to NRT
education. The NRT Foundation Post-Secondary Education Scholarship program was Foundation Donors and Partners looking to fill positions with qualified employees.
launched in 2007, with almost 100 awards granted at the Undergraduate, Masters and
Doctorate levels in the first year. To learn more about this opportunity and how to get involved,
please contact Matt Cook-Contois, Senior Associate – Programs Specialist
Funding for Bursaries was added in 2008 as a response to feedback we received that at (604) 925-3338 or mattcookcontois@nrtf.ca
there was a high demand for education in the area of Trades, Diplomas, Associate
Degrees and Certificates.
In 2011, the NRT Foundation was created, and in early 2012, management of the SCHOLARSHIPS & BURSARIES
AWARDED TO DATE
Scholarship and Bursary Award initiative was transferred to the NRT Foundation.
3,108 Scholarships and Bursaries have been
awarded to students at all levels of post-secondary BURSARIES UNDERGRAD MASTERS DOCTORATE CHIEF JOE MATHIAS TOTAL
education. 2007/08 - 65 23 8 - 96
2008/09 58 51 16 13 27 165
SCHOLARSHIPS
2009/10 60 42 21 10 27 160
2010/11 59 42 23 11 17 152
Post-Secondary Scholarships are available to all Indigenous students from BC who will 2011/12 66 44 22 9 18 159
attend an accredited post-secondary institution on a full-time basis.
2012/13 113 40 15 9 17 194
Together, with the support of Partners and Donors, the NRT Foundation has awarded a
2013/14 92 41 16 9 18 176
total of 1,617 Scholarships since its inception.
2014/15 93 51 14 8 - 166
BURSARIES
2015/16 103 69 18 12 - 202
2016/17 129 85 17 14 - 245
Bursaries are available to all eligible Indigenous students who are enrolled in Certificate,
2017/18 171 93 29 15 - 308
Diploma, Associates Degrees, and Trades programs. Students who are enrolled in a
post-secondary institution and remain in good academic standing are encouraged to 2018/19 200 104 30 20 - 354
apply for an NRT Foundation Bursary.
2019/20 209 137 44 20 - 410
Together, with the support of Partners and Donors, the NRT Foundation has awarded a
2020/21 138 133 35 15 - 321
total of 1,491 Bursaries since its inception.
TOTAL 1491 997 323 173 124 3,108
6 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 7
2020–2021
EDUCATION GRANTS
DISBURSED
Since 2007, the NRT, NRT Foundation and Partners have distributed
more than $14.3 million to support the post-secondary education of
Indigenous people in BC.
WHERE THE
FUNDING GOES The map below shows the
EDUCATION LEVERAGED
student region distribution
of NRT Foundation Scholarship
TOTAL and Bursary awards to date.
2020-2021
2007/08
TOTAL
$717,500
321
2008/09 $763,000
TOTAL
2009/10 $747,500 TO DATE
3,108
2020–21
8
2010/11 $743,000
2011/12 $751,000
2020–21
2012/13 $731,500
80
2013/14 $729,000
2020–21
2014/15 $713,500
12
2015/16 $935,500
2016/17 $1,122,500 2020–21
2017/18 $1,393,500 16
MÉTIS
2018/19 $1,625,000
2020–21
2020–21
23
2019/20 $2,030,250
2020–21
59
64
2020–21
2021/21 $1,307,500 2020–21
TOTAL $14,313,750 33 2
OTHER PROVINCES
2020–21
24
8 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 9
PARTNERS
MAKE IT HAPPEN
The contributions from our generous Partners
allowed the NRT Foundation to support over The First Nations Health Authority
300 Indigenous students with Scholarships (FNHA) is a health service delivery
and Bursaries in 2020-21. Almost all Indigenous organization, created and mandated to
students face financial barriers while support and elevate BC First Nations
attending post-secondary school. The NRT health outcomes through the creation
Foundation’s Scholarship and Bursary program of an effective health care system.
eases financial struggles so students can focus One of FNHA’s directives is to develop
on their studies and excel. human and economic capacity; our
vision is for healthy, self-determining
By investing in Indigenous post-secondary and vibrant children, families and
education, the NRT Foundation and Partners communities. FNHA has partnered with
are building the capacity of Indigenous the New Relationship Trust Foundation
students, enhancing employment opportunities to encourage First Nations people to
for graduates, creating a skilled workforce that explore exciting career opportunities
will enable BC to meet its future economic and in the health and wellness field.
social development needs.
FNHA recipient bios begin on page 14.
Together, we are building a brighter future for
all British Columbians.
If you would like to support the growing
number of exceptional Indigenous candidates
across BC through the NRT Foundation
Scholarship & Bursary program, please contact:
Matt Cook-Contois
KEEGAN COMBES
Programs Specialist - Senior Associate MEMORIAL AWARD
NRT Foundation
(604) 925-3338 ext. 107 The Keegan Combes Memorial Award This opportunity was my original plan to
mattcookcontois@nrtf.ca was established to honour the memory execute in 2019, but I was blessed as
of Keegan Coombes, a 29-year-old
a life-giver as of December 15, 2018,
when I was informed I was pregnant.
First Nations man and a member of
This did not deter me from my
Skwah First Nation. He was a high
educational goals; if anything, my son
school graduate, a grade 10 pianist,
has inspired me to become the best
and a chess champion enrolled in a version of myself possible.
trades college at the time of his —
passing. Keegan also lived with Maria Kruger
disabilities, and was non-verbal Bursary Recipient
by choice. He is remembered,
missed, and loved. Bio on page 21
Keegan recipient bios begin on page 46.
10 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 11
OUR PARTNERS OUR PARTNERS
TM
Canfor recognizes that building respectful, Peace Hills Trust is Canada’s largest and Since 2015, the NIB Trust Fund has been
transparent relationships that reflect the oldest First Nations owned federally committed to supporting First Nations
interests of First Nations are critical to its vision regulated financial institution, driven by and Métis peoples, communities,
of sustainable forest practices. Canfor is happy a vision to satisfy the unique financial organizations, groups, and individuals
to partner with the New Relationship Trust needs of the Indigenous community. through financial resourcing to address
Foundation to encourage First Nations people Founded with the objective of providing the impacts of the Indian Residential
to explore career paths in the forest industry. financial and trust services to First Nations Schools System and to support healing.
across Canada. The NIB Trust Fund manages the
Canfor recipient bios begin on page 64. investment of the residual funds from
PHT recipient bios begin on page 68. the Indian Residential School Agreement
and disburses capital and the earnings
from these funds to improve the
quality of life for First Nations and
Métis people and communities.
The NIB Trust Fund team is devoted
to achieving our vision of today’s youth
and future generations being grounded
in language, culture, and a way of
life that fosters a strong identity
and resiliency.
NIB Trust recipient bios begin on page 48.
Drillwell Enterprises is one of Western Canada’s The New Relationship Trust (NRT) is an
largest and most experienced water well drilling independent non-profit organization
contractors. Drillwell maintains a fleet of equipment dedicated to strengthening First
of varying size and capability, specializing in Water Nations in BC through capacity building.
Well Drilling, Hydro-fracturing, and Exploration NRT invests in BC First Nations by
ventures. Drillwell Enterprises has provided an supporting them in five key capacity
annual bursary to the New Relationship Trust development areas: Governance
Foundation since 2016. Capacity, Education, Language, Youth
& Elders, and Economic Development.
Drillwell recipient bios begin on page 66.
NRT recipient bios begin on page 71.
12 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 13
OUR PARTNERS | FNHA FNHA | Bursary
Alyssa Wale
Gitanmaax Band
College of New Caledonia
Dental Hygiene
Hello! I’m Alyssa and I am from Vander-
hoof, BC. I belong to the Gitxsan Nation
and would like to start by thanking the
New Relationship Trust for selecting my
application, and for supporting my educa-
tion. I am currently in the Dental Hygiene
The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is the including programs that can be completed program at CNC in Prince George, BC and
first and only provincial health organization of our in under a year. plan to graduate as a Dental Hygienist in
kind in Canada. Our mission is to transform the way 2022! I was drawn to this career as I really
health care is delivered to First Nations and Indige- The FNHA raises our hands to all the students enjoy working with people and wanted a
nous people in BC. We are working to reform health who have received scholarships and bursaries and job where I could support myself and give
care through direct services and collaboration with look forward to supporting those yet to come. The back to my community at the same time.
provincial partners. We are governed by and serve FNHA recognizes your hard work and dedication to I am excited for this opportunity the Gi-
First Nations individuals and communities in BC. your own dream and acknowledges your families tanmaax band and the New Relationship
Our talented teams value respect and foster lateral who support you. You are an inspiration to other Trust has given me and am extremely
kindness in their working relationships. Our holis- First Nations people who may choose to pursue a grateful for their generosity.
tic approach to wellness, based on First Nations rewarding career in healthcare.
teachings, is incorporated into all aspects of our
work culture. We recognize and celebrate the diversity of all BC Anaysa Stevens
First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples and promote Gitlaxt’aamiks
The FNHA invites you to join us on a journey to well- a work environment that models cultural safety and Village Government
ness. We’re looking for compassionate individuals humility of every employee. When you work with
Camosun College
like you to be a part of our innovative and multi- the FNHA, you will truly make a difference in your
Associate of Arts
cultural team, a team that is bringing health and life and for many others. Here, your work changes
wellness to BC’s First Nations populations. lives, starting with your own. My name is Anaysa Stevens, I come from
the Nisga’a, and the Kwakwaka’wakw
We have partnered with the New Relationship Want to know more? Visit us at Nations. I am very honoured to receive
Trust Foundation to encourage and support First fnha.ca/about/work-with-us this bursary; living on Vancouver Island
Nations individuals to pursue exciting and rewarding can be quite the challenge while
careers in healthcare through bursaries and or email careers@fnha.ca attending school, although very worth
scholarships for various training programs, it! My overall career goal is to contribute
in making a difference in society, for the
greater of the human race and our planet.
I believe that there will be great change
in the way society is run, and the way that
we perceive life; I’m very grateful to be a
part of our evolution.
14 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 15
FNHA | Bursary FNHA | Bursary
Angela Smoliak Annette Nookemus Brenna Joseph Brittany Salmon
Okanagan Indian Band Ditidaht First Nation Splatsin ’Namgis First Nation
Native Education College Discovery Community College Thompson Rivers University College of the Rockies
Family and Community Counselling Health Care Assistant Human Services Recreation Management
I have a strong passion to help our people I took the Health Care Assistant program My name is Brenna Joseph. I am from My name is Brittany Joseph and I am
as I understand the on-going troubles in 2020 because I think it’s important to Enderby, BC where I lived until until I from Alert Bay, BC. I am currently in
we face. I had been wanting to take the help and take care of our Elders. I am was 18, before I moved to Kamloops, BC. my second year of my Recreation
Family & Community Counseling program grateful for the opportunity to graduate I am currently attending Thompson Managment Diploma. I feel like
for so long but OKIB lacked funding from HCA this year especially during the Rivers University where I am currently recreation is an extremely important
available for those who haven’t been in COVID‐19 pandemic. This job gives me in my first year of the Human Services aspect of a holistic well‐being and is
school for a long time. For several years, I a lot of opportunities everywhere, and I Diploma. I have also previously so valuable to Indigenous youth.
have had difficulties obtaining funding for have always enjoyed helping Elders. I am completed two years towards my I am excited about being able to learn
my post-secondary education. Through grateful to meet new Elders because they Bachelor of Arts degree. I hope to about recreation and eventually hold
a College prep course instructor at the have a lot of interesting stories to share be able to someday use my education a position where I am a part of the
NEC, I found out about NRT. I appreciate and also it’s nice to just be able to sit with to create positive changes within recreation community.
the First Nations Health Authority award. an elder and spend time with them. I have First Nations communities.
I really look forward to contributing to the witnessed some elders who get lonely by
creation of an effective health care system. themselves and all they ask is for some Brooke Florence
I know this is what I am meant to do, and company without any questions asked. Katzie First Nation
I appreciate everyone who has made this Thank you, I am grateful for this year Douglas College
personal journey possible. because I will do good things with this job
Academic Foundations
opportunity.
I went to school to be a Health Care
Angela Dueck Assistant at the end of 2013, and I’ve
Heiltsuk Tribal Council Ashley Jaeger been helping the elderly ever since. I have
Vancouver Island University Gingolx Village Government Breya McChesney since left a toxic relationship and moved
Dental Assistant Vancouver College of Counsellor Training Cowichan Tribes back to Katzie in June 2019. I couldn’t
have done this without the continued
Youth & Family Support Worker University of the Fraser Valley
I was adopted as a baby and grew up support from my Dad. Ever since, I have
Social Service Worker
mainly in Vancouver, BC. My ex-husband I belong to the house of Axdii Will Lugoo- set goals for myself such as exercising,
and I travelled to the Northwest Territories da and I am from the Frog Clan. I am the My name is Breya McChesney and I am eating healthier, attending counselling,
in 2006 and loved it so much that we oldest of seven children. My Grandmother from Cowichan Tribes in British Columbia. and applying for Academic Foundations
moved there two months after our first is Jean Fitzgerald (née Trimble). I plan I am currently enrolled in the Social for Potential Nursing program at Douglas
visit; we lived there for 7 years. While we to continue my education to obtain my Services Diploma with an Indigenous College. I was so happy when I received
were there, we were blessed to be able to degree in counselling. I want to focus my focus and when I graduate I plan to work an acceptance letter! I cannot wait to
adopt our son from the Dene Nation. We work on youth and the LGBTQ2S+ com- for Indigenous communities. My goals become a Registered Nurse as I want to
now live in Nanaimo, BC and I am currently munity while I am in my studies. I hope are to then obtain my Social Work degree help and make a difference. I want to gain
enrolled in the Dental Assistant Certificate that by furthering my education I will be and work in Corrections, my long‐term knowledge and experience at a hospital,
program at Vancouver Island University. able to set a good example for my com- goals would be to achieve my Master’s in and once I gain enough experience, I
Returning to school as a mature adult is munity. I would love to express my ut- Social Work and open my own counselling would love to help out my community as
challenging, but my goal is to provide a most gratitude to the First Nations Health practice. Thank you for this opportunity an RN. Life is better when you’re laugh-
secure and happy upbringing for my son, Authority and the NRT Foundation! I am and thank you for your support. ing with the ones who matter the most
Elwood. I would like to thank the NRTF so grateful to have been choosen for this to you. Dream big, set goals, and take
and I truly appreciate this opportunity Bursary. This will truly help me continue action! Smile, stay strong and spread
given to me. my education! Thank you! nothing but love and positivity.
16 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 17
FNHA | Bursary FNHA | Bursary
Celestine Sampson Curtis Young-Mercer Janet Harry Jeremy Weiss
Stz’uminus First Nation Gitlaxt’aamiks Haisla Nation Da’naxda’xw First Nation
North Island College Village Government Nicola Valley Institute of Technology Vancouver Island University
Health Care Assistant Vancouver College of Massage Therapy Chemical Addictions Worker Social Services
Registered Massage Therapy
My name is Wushunitse’ (Celestine Samp- I come from the Beaver Clan, and my Gila’ kasla, my name Jeremy Weiss from
son), my roots are in Stz’uminus First I have a degree in Business Administration traditional name is Pulxaneqs. I have Da’ naxda’ xw First Nation. I plan on
Nation and Cowichan First Nation. I come and 8+ years experience in the Business finished the certificate for CHAD-Chem- working within the Indigenous communi-
from a culturally stong family and a proud Consulting field. I truly believe that learning ical Addictions Program at Nicola Valley ty and focus in the area of addictions and
mother of 3 with one on the way while never ends; it is a constant journey. I am Institute and I am now working on the helping others heal from them. I have just
pursuing my career. I have choosen to be beyond thankful for the the opportunity Diploma for CHAD. I am aiming to finish started my second year of studies, and
a Health Care Assistant because I strongly to pursue my learning in the field of all four years and obtain my Master’s I will graduate with my Diploma in 2021.
believe in taking care of our Elders and Massage Therapy at Vacouver College of Degree. My husband James has his own I’ve overcome addictions as well, and
have great respect for our Knowledge Massage Therapy. After completion of Outreach Society that we are currently hope that people may be inspired by my
Keepers. My ultimate goal is to work with this 20-month program I plan to return working to get up and running, a part of story to do the same.
Elders in the community and provide pos- home with another skillset that will allow this for me is obtaining my Master’s De-
itive experiences starting with caring for me to continue to help others not only gree and have a more indepth sight into
them in their own home. I cannot wait to in business, but with their health as well. fulfilling our vision. Jessica Natrall
begin my career as an HCA. Huy’ch’qu The NRT Foundation and their Post- Squamish Nation
Secondary Award platform enables Native Education College
students to focus on their learning, rather Jasmine Family and Community Counselling
Collette James than making ends meet. I would also like Montgomery Reid
Skowkale First Nation to encourage all those reading this, to
Lower Similkameen I am from North Vancouver, BC and from
Stenberg College continue to push yourself beyond your the Squamish and Selkirk First Nations. I
Indian Band
limits. You can do anything you put your am currently in the Family and Community
Practical Nursing Sprott Shaw College
mind to. The most powerful leadership Counselling Certificate Program at the
My helq’emeylem name is Si’yam:telst. tool you have is your own personal example. Practical Nursing Native Education Centre. After I complete
I was raised by my father in a single Indigenous communities are experiencing the certificate program, I plan to continue
parent home as my mother struggled a huge healthcare gap that is not being on to the Family and Community
with alcohol, as a result of Residential Daniel Clark addressed, and my drive is specifically Counselling Diploma Program. Upon my
School. I have had great passion for Okanagan Indian Band motivated to pave the way so isolated Diploma completion, my plan is to transfer
working as an HCA for 6 years. The past Okanagan College community members can feel safe and into a Bachelor of Social Work program.
5 years has not been an easy journey, heard in their healthcare facilities. Also, I am passionate about helping our First
Kinesiology
the father of my daughter overdosed with my last three years of work experience Nations people.
and nearly died. I became pregnant Hello, I’m Daniel Clark and I’m a member focusing on “Youth Outreach” with the
and I chose to go into Wilmas transition of the Okanagan Indian Band. I’m cur- Restorative Justice Program and the
home. I now reside in Vancouver with the rently enrolled in the Kinesiology Diploma Bella Bella Community School, I have
YWCA society with my twenty month old at Okanagan College and my long-term recognized the inequity of health
My goal and motivation is to become
daughter who I raise alone. Currently, I goal is to become a physical therapist. I’m services for Indigenous peoples. My goal
a Nurse Professional to make an
am breaking the cycle so I can give my passionate about how the human body and motivation is to become a Nurse
impact on the health field with a
daughter a better life, I want her to have functions and I have experience working Professional to make an impact on the
holistic approach to wellness.
a fighting chance to be the person she in my community with helping people health field with a holistic approach to
chooses to be full heartedly. Not only will improve their health and fitness. I want to wellness. This is my passion, and with
I have the opportunity to do what I love, further my education so I can help people acceptance to this program my long‐term
— Jasmine Montomery Reid
but I will be able to provide my daughter in reaching optimal body functioning and goals are becoming a reality.
with a better future in becoming a LPN. living healthier lives.
18 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 19FNHA | Bursary FNHA | Bursary
Jodie Smith Karen George Kennedy Louis Maria Kruger
Gitlaxt’aamiks Cowichan Tribes Okanagan Indian Band Penticton Indian Band
Village Government Somatic Experience Trauma Institute Canadian National Institute of Health Okanagan College
Coast Mountain College Somatic Experience Counsellor Dental Hygiene Certified Dental Assistant
Social Service Worker
The Somatic Experience is a form of My name is Kennedy Louis and I am from My name is Maria Kruger, I am of
My name is Jodie Smith, I am a full-time alternative therapy aimed at relieving the Okanagan Indian Band of Vernon, BC. Okanagan/Shuswap decent. I was born
student, mother, and wife. Born and the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress I completed a degree in Human Kinetics and raised in Penticton, BC. My parents
raised in Prince Rupert, BC, a citizen Disorder (PTSD), and other mental and at the University of British Columbia in are Abe and Elaine Kruger. Upon accep-
of the Nisga’a Nation from the Village physical trauma-related health problems Kelowna last year with the support of my tance to the Certified Dental Assistant
of New Aiyansh, I currently reside in by focusing on the client’s perceived body family and my home community. I love to certificate program, I completed ex-
Terrace, BC. I am enrolled in the Social sensations (or somatic experiences). Once help people, and thoroughly enjoy learn- tra credits offered through Okanagan
Service Worker Certificate Program, I complete the program, I will be able to ing the science behind all aspects of the College. I previously took the Dental
and plan on furthering my education by integrate the Somatic Experience learning human body and ways we can promote Reception Coordinator program through
continuing into the Social Service Worker into my practice, as it weaves well with Art and maintain a healthy lifestyle. I have Vancouver Community College. This
Diploma program. Therapy. I can apply this while working chosen to further my education in the opportunity was my original plan to
with First Nations communities, and the healthcare field and return to school in execute in 2019, but I was blessed as
impact of historical trauma from Resi- Ottawa, Ontario to become a Registered a life-giver as of December 15, 2018,
dential Schools and the intergenerational Dental Hygienist. I hope to complete my when I was informed I was pregnant.
effects. I will be able to work with all ages program and work within my community This did not deter me from my educational
of individuals, children up to Elders, and surrounding communities so that I goals; if anything, my son has inspired
providing one‐on‐one sessions or can help in working towards closing the me to become the best version of myself
facilitating groups. Somatic Experience gap in Indigenous healthcare inequities possible. Therefore, I still enrolled at VCC
Counsellors are in high demand and there and improve culturally appropriate acces- knowing well I would be pregnant for the
are only a few local SE counsellors on sibility for Indigenous populations. duration of the program. My son was 5
Joshua Joseph
Vancouver Island, and none in Duncan. weeks early, having a premature baby
’Namgis First Nation
I am deeply honored and truly appreciate was difficult, but completing my program
Vancouver Island University the support. Thank you. with the help of my mother who was able
Health Care Assistant to temporarily relocate was simply doing
Hello, my name is Joshua Joseph and I the impossible. The college personnel,
am a ‘Namgis First Nations student. I Keisha Fletcher ACCESS staff and my co-hort were beyond
am from Port McNeil, BC, and I was born High Bar First Nation supportive. I decided to move back to the
and raised there. I am studing in the Thompson Rivers University Mallory Ritchie Okanagan for the time being, spending
Heathcare Assistant program and plan
Human Services Líl̓wat Nation a year with my son was precious. I am
to continue my education. My goal is to Capilano University grateful to have been accepted to the
become a Counselor. My ambition is to My name is Keisha Fletcher and I come Okanagan College CDA program, and
Outdoor Recreation
help people, my history in my home town from a small town called Clinton, BC. I plan to successfuly complete this 10
Management Diploma
and family has given me tremendous There is very few resources available in month program to improve the quality
experience and insight on helping others my small town and I have always strived My name is Mallory Ritchie and I am from of life for my family and I. Lim’ Limpt
who have had similiar treatment. My aim to be able to bring mental health and the Lil’wat nation in Mount Currie, BC.
is change the world by helping out one addictions services to my small town I am currently attending Capilano
person at a time. We all need a little help especially for my band, High Bar. University in the Outdoor Recreation
from time to time, especially during our Management Program. My career goal is
current circumstances of 2020. Thank you to be able to take First Nations youth out
and be safe. on the traditional territory to learn about
the land.
20 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 21FNHA | Bursary FNHA | Bursary
May Cooper Nikki Adams Percy Bechard Santana Cabral
Tl’esqox Lytton First Nations Gingolx Village Government Nadleh Whut’en First Nation
Thompson Rivers University Sprott Shaw College MacEwan University Kelowna College of
Practical Nursing Practical Nursing Social Work Professional Counselling
Applied Psychology and Counselling
My career goal is to finish my Practical Aww qu-n TLoo (Hello). I am Nikki Adams. Hello, I’m Percy Bechard and currently
Nursing program in Williams Lake at I am from the Nlaka’pamux Territory, in working on my first-year Social Work I am enrolled in the Kelowna College of
Thomson Rivers University. Once I have BC. I am a proud mother of three young program at Grant MacEwan University in Professional Counselling, taking their
finished my program I would love to work children. Currently, I am enrolled in the Edmonton, Alberta. I have served with Diploma of Applied Psychology and
with my Chilcotin people. I would also like Nursing Program at Sprott Shaw College. the Canadian Armed Forces completing Counselling Program with Specialization
to work with the Kamloops Indian Band My goal is to set a good example for my three tours overseas working alongside in Counselling. I am incredibly grateful
at the Kamloops Hospital. What they are community and my family. I look forward with the locals who lived in poverty. and excited to be on this learning journey,
doing there is amazing, by providing to building my experience and to get I have also worked as a Correctional as I know it will give me the knowledge
a special room so we as First Nations out into the community to help others Peace Officer and did front line service and tools needed to make a real impact
people can have our sage and ceremonies with their health and well being. for several years just before attending within my community. Upon graduation
for the sick. I want my people to have quequeshschAmwh (Thank you). university. I want to fulfill my social work and my practicum, I plan to work with
more options for health care. I want to All my relations. goals and provide a positive outlook for First Nations communities to provide a
give back to our Elders for what they have Aboriginal peoples. safe space to learn, heal and grow.
taught us growing up. I want to thank my Thank you so much for this incredible
family, my husband and 3 kids for being opportunity and the support in my
very patient, and my mom for all the Randi Russell (Dudoward) educational goals. I cannot wait to see
support and for being by my side since I Lax Kw’alaams Band what lies ahead for me on my educational
started my Education journey. I want to Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology and life journey.
thank my band, Toosey Indian Band, and
Chemical Addictions Worker
the Cariboo Chilcotin Aboriginal Training
Employment Centre. I want to thank I’d like to start by thanking community
NRT Foundation for giving me this Norma Natrall sponsors for making this possible, Sarah Humchitt
amazing bursary fund to help my Squamish Nation N’tooyaxsn NRT, FNHA and Tricorp for Heiltsuk Tribal Council
education journey. Thank you. your ongoing support and commitment Capilano University
Native Education College
to educational & career growth. I come
Family and Community Counselling Rehabilitation Assistant Diploma
from the Ts’msyen Nation and reside in
Megan Egan My name is Norma Natrall and I am from Lax Kxeen (Prince Rupert) where I was Yau, My name is Sarah Humchitt and I
Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc the Squamish Nation. I recently graduated born and raised. I come from the commu- come from the Heiltsuk territory of Bella
from the Education Assistant program in nities of Lax Kw’alaams (Place of Wild Ros- Bella, BC. I am a current student in a
Douglas College
March 2020, but due to COVID-19 it was es) and Lach Klan (Kitkatla), and my crest Rehabilitation Assistant program at
Child and Youth Care
hard to find a job. So I applied to the is Ganhada. I feel a great sense of respect Capilano University, and will finish the
Hello, my name is Megan Egan and Family and Community Counselling and pride for where I come from and program in December 2020. My intention
I am from the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Program. After my FCC program, my am passionate about Indigenous well- is to continue my education through to
band, but live I in Maple Ridge, BC. goal would be able to work in a school ness and advocacy. I am grateful for the a Kinesiology program and onwards
I am currently work as an Aboriginal setting part‐time, and to be working as opportunity to continue my personal and towards a career in Occupational Therapy
Support Worker in a school. My career a Outreach Youth Worker or a Community professional growth through studying and with an interest in mental health services.
goal is to be an Aboriginal Child and Support Worker part‐time as well. I would focusing on Indigenous wellness. I am I hope to one day work in rural Indigenous
Youth Counselor. I would like to give prefer doing both roles within Indigenous currently studying Chemical Addictions communities to provide therapeutic
back to my community and help children communities to give back to Indigenous Certificate offered through NVIT and CTC. rehabilitative services close to home.
in need, as well as educate them. children and youth. I’m looking forward to providing experi- Ǧiáxsix̌ a New Relationship Trust
ence and support to the community. Foundation for their support!
22 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 23FNHA | Bursary FNHA | Bursary
Tahia Adams-Wilson Tiarra Sterling
Metlakatla First Nation Lower Nicola Indian Band
Vancouver Island University College of the Rockies
Social Services Practical Nursing
Hello, my name is Tahia Adams-Wilson My name is Tiarra Sterling and I am
and I am from Prince Rupert, BC. from the Nlaka’pamux Nation, which is
Currently I am enrolled for my second in a small town in the South Central
year in the Social Services Diploma Interior (Merritt). I am in my first year of
Program at Vancouver Island University the Licensed Practical Nursing program
in Nanaimo, BC. After I recieve my diploma at College of the Rockies in Cranbrook,
in April 2021, I will be applying for my BC. My end goal is to finish the LPN
Bachelor Degree in Social Work. program, gain some experiance, then
From then on I will be working towards go back to school to become a Registered
forming a career in working with Indig- Nurse and specialize as a Pediatric nurse.
enous communities. I very much look I want to return back home to work in
forward to this exciting and challenging my community and set a good example
career path. for my family.
Shaelan Willson Sherry Hance
Lower Nicola Indian Band Tl’etinqox Government
Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology
Access to Practical Nursing Indigenous Human Services
Hello, my name is Shae! I am an 18 year old from the Sid Sherry Hance sets’edinh. My name is Sherry Hance.
Lower Nicola Indian Band. I am currently taking my I am a proud Tsilhqot’in (Chilcotin) from Tl’etinqox Teira Joseph
first year of the Access to Practical Nursing at NVIT. T’in (Anaham) reserve. I am in the Indigenous Human Splatsin My long term goal is to obtain my
I graduated high school a year early and jumped right Service (IHMS) Diploma at Nicola Valley Institute of Thompson Rivers University Bachelor of Social Work and work
into my journey of finding a career in the health care Technology (NVIT). I will be graduating with my IHMS
Human Services with Indigenous families.
industry. I completed my Health Care Assistance last Diploma in April 2021. I am an aspiring Social Worker
Growing up on reserve, I have seen
year and found that being in this field is my passion. so I will be applying for the Bachelor of Social Work Hello, My name is Teira Joseph. I am
the gap between Indigenous and
I love being able to help others. I am not sure where my Program at NVIT. I am particularly interested in the from the Splatsin First Nation in Enderby,
non‐Indigenous people, this is one
journey will take me, but for now I am truly enjoying the social justice aspect of Social Work. I would like to BC. I am currently taking the Human
the reasons I have decided to pursue
one I am on. I thank NRTF and LNIB for the support become an advocate for Indigenous individuals, Service Diploma at Thompson Rivers
social work.
which allows me to further my education to be an LPN. families, communities, and any other person facing University in Kamloops BC. My long term
inequalities. I would like to incorporate Indigenous goal is to obtain my Bachelor of Social
— Teira Joseph
ways of knowing and healing into my practice. Work and work with Indigenous families.
Sechanalyagh (thank you). Growing up on reserve, I have seen
the gap between Indigenous and
non‐Indigenous people, this is one the
reasons I have decided to pursue social
work. I could not do this without the
support from my band, friends and
most importantly, my family.
24 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 25FNHA | Bursary FNHA | Scholarship – Undergraduate
Tiffany Jaeger Adrian Van de Mosselaer Amanda Berry
Gingolx Village Government Whispering Pines / Lower Nicola Indian Band
Okanagan College Clinton Indian Band Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology
Associate of Arts - Psychology University of British Columbia - Bachelor of Social Work
Okanagan
My name is Tiffany Jaeger and I am from I am proud to be able to go to school
Bachelor of Science - Nursing and shift education to a positive light for
Wilps Axdii Wil Luugooda, The House
that is Never Empty, and the Ganada clan My name is Adrian, I am from Kelowna, my family. My goal when I have finished
from the Nisga’a Village of Gingolx, BC. BC and I am very excited to be pursuing my degree is to work with youth in an
I am in my last year of my Associate of a career as a Registered Nurse. I hope Indigenous wellness/counselling position
Arts degree with focuses in Psychology to one day work within First Nations and then ultimately go on for my Master’s
and Social Work. I will be moving on to communities, and eventually I see of Social Work. The adjustment has been
my Bachelor of Social Work next fall, and myself furthering my education into extremely hard for me as a struggling
it is my goal to move on to my Master’s a specialization. learner and as a middle-aged woman.
of Social Work following that. Choosing
However, going back to school at 41 has
to pursue an education of Social Work
pushed me out of my comfort zone and
has always felt like a natural transition to
allowed me to grow, not just as a mother,
the next step in my life. I am passionate
wife but as an individual. This program
about social issues and want to be part
of the solution to prevention, as well as a has allowed me to become closer to my
part of the healing journey for the deep language, cultural, and spiritual wellbe-
rooted issues that are embedded into ing. I look at the world with a richer In-
society and within my community. Aimee Tresierra digenous lens. I want to thank you again
Hami yaa nee loosim Whispering Pines / with assisting in furthering my education
(I thank you all) for Clinton Indian Band and investing in mine and my children’s
future. néxʷm kʷukʷscéyp ʔes kncémxʷ
this amazing gift. I University of British Columbia -
(thank you very much, for helping me).
Okanagan
appreciate the help. It Bachelor of Science - Nursing
puts my mind at ease I am in my 4th and final semester of Nurs- Anna Brown
knowing someone Whitney Blackwater ing at the University of British Columbia Heiltsuk Tribal Council
Kispiox Band Council
out there believes in Coast Mountain College
Okanagan. My journey through these
years have not been easy, struggling to
Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology
Bachelor of Social Work
me enough to grant Access to Practical Nursing be a stand up student while starting a
me a bursary. I am Whitney Blackwater and I grew up in
family at the same time. I now have two
beautiful girls age 1 and 3 who inspire
My traditional name is Thuxvma axa
(Frozen Rain Falling). My English name
Kispiox, BC. Everything I have earned in me every day to be the best person that is Anna Nicole Brown. I am finishing off
— Whitney Blackwater my life I had to struggle to achieve. I had I can be. I chose nursing to not only help my third year in Social Work. I aim to
no guidance while growing up in Kispiox. others but to be able to support Northern complete my Bachelor’s degree and then
It was the lack of support that drove me communities and underserved communi- continue on to get my Master’s in Social
hard to become the person I am today. ties, especially areas that are more rural. Work. I am from the Heiltsuk Nation but
I enjoy helping others, knowing how I want to thank NRTF for supporting me also have Thompson Sto’lo and Scottish
someone people have no one. Nursing is through my endeavours, by providing ancestry, which I am very much proud of.
my passion. me and my family with financial support I have 4 beautiful children who are my
which has allowed me to spend more time reason for achieving a higher education.
with my little girls as well as more time to I aspire to be not only a good role model
focus on my studies. for them but for the future generations.
26 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 27FNHA | Scholarship – Undergraduate FNHA | Scholarship – Undergraduate
Caleb Lawlor Darlynda Jack Emma deWit Hailey Josephson
Lower Similkameen Ulkatcho First Nation Witset First Nation Snuneymuxw First Nation
Indian Band Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology University of Victoria University of Alberta
University of British Columbia Bachelor of Social Work Bachelor of Science - Nursing Bachelor of Science - Dietetics
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
My name is Darlynda Jack and I am a My name is Eddie and I am a Hello! My name is Hailey Josephson.
My pursuit of nursing stems from my mother of four. I am graduating this year Wet’suwet’en two-spirit person I was born and raised on the beautiful
passion to advocate for marginalized pop- with my Bachelor of Social Work and I am who currently studying to become a Sunshine Coast, BC and am a proud
ulations both domestically and abroad. so grateful for all of NRTF’s help. I plan Registered Nurse. My career goal is to member of Snuneymuxw First Nation.
Thus, I see working for non-government to continue on with my education. I have work in rural Indigenous communities as I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of
organizations or becoming a member of been thinking of attending Law School a Nurse Practitioner one day. It is crucial Science degree, with specialization in
the Canadian military very realistic career due to the amount of injustices that In- in my practice to care in an anti-racist and Dietetics. I am working towards my career
options for myself. I want to uphold the digenous people encounter. I am a huge culturally safe way. Social justice has been goal of becoming a sports Dietitan. Being
mandate of “accessibility” to healthcare as advocate for change within the Canadian a big part of my practice. Nurses have the able to combine my love for food with my
defined as a requisite of universal health- justice system and anything related to opportunity to advocate for our patients passion for sports is something that I feel
care in the Canada Health Act. Because Indigenous issues. Therefore, education and for systemic change. My hope for the extremely thankful for.
of my aspirations, my pursuit of higher can only help us in this battle to improve future is that I can advocate in a good
education and the expenses I will need to the lives of Indigenous peoples for the way to make healthcare accessible and
incur will undoubtedly not end here. Thus, years to come. safe for all people.
I want extend my sincerest, “Thank you”,
to the New Relationship Trust Foundation
and the First Nations Health Authority for
your generous support as it is tremendously
helpful to me in the pursuit of my personal
and academic endeavours.
Caroline Thompson
Tseshaht First Nation Erin Gustafson Hiliary Willis
Vancouver Island University Elainah Andrew Gitanmaax Band Ulkatcho First Nation
Bachelor of Arts - Child & Youth Care Líl̓wat Nation Thompson Rivers University Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology
University of British Columbia Bachelor of Science - Nursing Bachelor of Social Work
I am the second oldest of eight children. I
am a single mom of two wonderful sons. Bachelor of Dental Science Hello, my name is Hiliary. I am a First
Hello, my name is Erin Gustafson, and
I am registered under the Tseshaht First Hi I’m Elainah, I am currently in my fourth I was born and raised in Kamloops, BC. Nation woman from Ulkatcho First
Nation. I have roots from Nuuchahnulth and final year of my Bachelor degree in I have worked as a Community Health Nations, a wife, and mother of two young
and Haida Gwaii as well. I am in my fourth Dental Science at UBC. My current goals Worker for the past twelve years, but I children (3 and 6 years old). I am in my
year of the Child & Youth Care degree are to eventually return to school to have always had nursing as my ultimate fourth year of the Bachelor of Social Work
program at VIU on Vancouver Island. I become a DMD or to receive my Mas- goal. Working within my community is a program at the Nicola Valley Institute of
feel very fortunate to be a recipient of a ter’s Degree. I would really like to thank life-changing and rewarding experience Technology. After completing the BSW
scholarship from NRTF. Being a full time everyone at New Relationship Trust for that has inspired me to pursue nursing. program I would like to work with
student is very tough work, and I know supporting me throughout my last four I want to continue my nursing education Indigenous children, youth, and families
it will be rewarding once I completed my years, I would not be where I am today with a focus on community nursing and in an advocacy role and then move on to
Indigenous health.
educational goals. kleco kleco! without your generosity. completing my Master’s of Social Work.
28 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 29FNHA | Scholarship – Undergraduate FNHA | Scholarship – Undergraduate
Jacqueline Hamill Jordan Kapalka Joshua Houghton Julian Stokes
Lax Kw’alaams Band Nadleh Whut’en First Nation Squamish Nation Old Massett Village Council
Simon Fraser University University of Victoria University of Victoria University of Northern British Columbia
Bachelor of Arts - Health Sciences Bachelor of Arts - Humanities Bachelor of Child and Youth Care Bachelor of Health Sciences - Honours
Hello, my name is Jacqueline Hamill My name is Jordan Kapalka and I am I’m a single father and my son motivates Though I have always intended to become
and I am from the Tsimshian Nation. I’m a member of the Nadleh Whut’en me to pursue my education to further a doctor, it was only recently that I also
currently in my final year at Simon Fraser First Nation. I am currently enrolled develop my skills and experience. Currently discovered a similar passion for health
University, working towards my Bachelor in the Faculty of Humanities at the I’m enrolled in the Child Youth in Care science research. I am in the final year of
of Arts in Health Sciences. I have a strong University of Victoria, where I am taking program at the University of Victoria. my Bachelor of Health Sciences Honours
passion for maternal health care, and I’m Foundations in Health Studies courses. I want to pursue social work to improve program at the University of Northern
excited to pursue a career focused on My gaol is to get my Bachelor of Science the lives and services of Indigenous British Columbia, after which my long-
working with Indigenous mothers, families in Nursing and pursue a career as a youth. This Scholarship from First term goal is to become a neurologist and
and their beautiful babies. Registered Nurse. I have always had a Nations Health Authority and the New clinical researcher working in rural and
passion for helping people, and have Relationship Trust allows me to continue medically underserved communities in
wanted to be a nurse for as long as I can my education and advocate to improve Northern BC. I see this as a way of giving
Jaden Stefanyk remember. I hope that with this career I the health and wellbeing of the youth in back to the community in which I was
Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc will be able to give back to my community Indigneous communities. It allows me raised, and I hope to serve as a role
Thompson Rivers University and be a positive role model. to focus on my studies without having model for those with similar aspirations.
the financial stress of post secondary. It
Bachelor of Social Work
improves the life of myself and my family.
I am a mother to Isabella and am a proud Jordan Hunt
member of the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc Kwakiutl Band Council
community. I identify as female/her/she. Vancouver Island University Josie Duncan Julianne Daniels
I am a woman trying to better my life
Bachelor of Social Work Xatśūll First Nation Stz’uminus First Nation
through obtaining a Bachelor of Social University of British Columbia Camosun College
Work so that I may fulfill my calling to I am 37 years of age, and have 3 children
Bachelor of Midwifery Bachelor of Sport and Fitness Leadership
help my community to live a healthy life. with my partner of 15 years, who is
I have always been passionate about working on her PhD in Language Revi- Ey swayel! I was born in East London, ÍY SȻÁĆEL! Good day! My name is Julie
supporting individuals, building their talization. As we are of Kwakwaka’wakw South Africa to Canadian parents and Daniels and I’m from Stzu’minus First
self-esteem and self-efficacy, and I take ancetry, we are learning as a family our moved to Canada at three years of age. Nations. However, I currently reside in
pride and honour in serving the community. traditional langage of Kwakwala. After I am currently thriving in my first year W̱ SÁNEĆ with my family. I’m in my final
I especially have a desire to support indi- completing my Bachelor’s degree, we of the Bachelor of Midwifery Program year of the Bachelor of Sport and Fitness
viduals who experience the mental health plan on moving back to our unceeded at UBC. Hopefully, after graduation in Leadership Program at Camosun Col-
and substance use disorders. After grad- traditonal territory of the Kwakiutl located 2024, I will be on the road to establishing lege. My goal is to be a certified Clinical
uating from the Bachelor of Social Work on northern Vancouver Island. I look my own practice that is able to serve a Exercise Physiologist. I also have a desire
program I plan on gaining employment forward to completing the decolonization multitude of surrounding rural areas with to work in a sports organization, or within
at a delegated Aboriginal agency. It is my of my mind, body, and spirit through daily midwifery care. Growing up in a small communities to create meaningful pro-
dream to commence and facilitate group ceremony, language, and gratitude. After town of 250 people called Lac La Hache, grams that encourage physical activity
counselling within a delegated agency completing my degree, I plan on working BC made me realize how needed and health for all ages and abilities. I’m
to support individuals who have expe- with healing methods and ceremony community-centered care is and that pleased to receive this award and would
rienced intergenerational trauma as a involving water, creative expression, I want to make it a focus in my future like to express my gratitude to the NRT
result of the Residential School systems. movement, quiet and contemplation, career. I want to extend immense Foundation and the First Nations Health
It is necessary to recognize and challenge fellow creatures and mother earth as gratitude to the NRT Foundation for Authority as this award will help me in my
the complex social, historical, economic outlined in decolonizing social work by the generous award that will make a final year of my Bachelor Program.
and legislative issues that contribute to Indigenous academics across Turtle Island. tremendous difference in my studies.
the oppression of Indigenous people.
30 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 31FNHA | Scholarship – Undergraduate FNHA | Scholarship – Undergraduate
Kathryn Ignace Kirsten Caley
Skeetchestn Indian Band Dzawada’enuxw First Nation
Thompson Rivers University University of British Columbia -
Bachelor of Science - Nursing Okanagan
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Weyk-tp, my name is Kathryn Xyemetkwe
Ignace and I am a young Indigenous My name is Kirsten Caley, and I am
woman of Secwépemc ancestry. I was a 19-year-old nursing student from
raised in the Skeetchestn community Campbell River, BC. I am studying at the
and I am proud of my Secwépemc culture University of British Columbia Okanagan
and heritage, which my parents and in Kelowna, BC to become a nurse. I enjoy
Elders have shared with me throughout playing rugby and played for the UBCO
my upbringing. I am currently in my Women’s Heat team last year. I hope to
second year of the Bachelor of Science become a nurse and work in maternity
in Nursing program at Thompson Rivers care when I graduate with my degree. I’d
University. I decided to enter this field like to thank the New Relationship Trust
of work due to my passion for helping, Foundation and their sponsors for giving
caring for, and healing people through Aboriginal students like me the opportu-
holistic means. Additionally, I decided to nity to further their education.
enter this field so that I may advocate for
Katia Haslam Keisha Charnley Indigenous populations and address the
Penelakut Tribe Katzie First Nation health inequities and social injustices Kristen Clair
University of British Columbia University of British Columbia that exist. Quatsino First Nation
Bachelor of Midwifery Bachelor of Midwifery Camosun College
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
I was raised on Tsartlip lands on Vancouver Island. I am My name is Keisha Amanda Charnley and I am from Kennedy Jones
in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Co- the Katzie First Nation and Blackburn, Lancashire, Skidegate Band Council My name is Kristen Clair and I come
lumbia working towards my Bachelor in Midwifery. I am England. I am a grateful guest and relative on unceded Camosun College from the strong Indigenous roots of the
in my 3rd year and currently practicing in Penticton, BC. xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm, Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh, and səl̓ ílwətaʔ Kwakwaka’wakw people on the northern
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
I am a mom to a wonderous 18 month old girl named territories. I come from birth workers. In my family end of Vancouver Island. Growing up,
Kismet. I am extremely passionate about Maternity and community, aunties, helpers, and healers have I plan on graduating from my nursing I was able to embrace my culture and
care and one day hope to be able to create more access carried the sacred teachings about how to lift up program and continuing on to get my educate myself about the importance of
to Midwifery care in rural towns. I came to the path of pregnant people and families to support the ceremony Master’s as a Nurse Practitioner special- an Indigenous community and how I can
Midwifery because I admired how my mother radiated of bringing new life into the world. My great-grand- izing in pediatrics or urgent care. I will help with the regrowth of our culture as
strength and pride when she talked about the births of mother, family, Elders and ancestors have been doing always consider Haida Gwaii as my home a youth. I am currently in my second year
her three kids. However, there are pieces of her birth this work since time immemorial, and have left teach- and I plan on moving back and working as of nursing school at Camosun College to
stories, of her care in particular, that have always struck ings throughout our territories that I am slowly picking a Nurse Practitioner once I graduate. One become a Registered Nurse and graduate
me the wrong way. This had me simply dreaming that I up on my journey to becoming a midwife. I wish to of the biggest reasons for my success is with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
would one day have and be able to offer maternity care continue their work and honour them through the having my friends and family constant- I am focused on incorporating Indigenous
that was supportive and individualized. As I am in my care that I offer to my community to the best of my ly supporting me back at home. Being views and medicine into my practice
placement, working with real people, I am constantly ability. I am now in my final year of the UBC midwifery an Indigenous women, I am proud to and educate others on the history and
reminded how truly individualized care needs to be. program and plan to practice in my community as a represent my community and I continue reconciliation of Indigenous people.
The transition that is pregnancy, birth, and postpartum midwife and birth worker. to thrive due to all of the Indigenous role
is extremly complex and powerful. I want to be a care models who inspire me and encourage
provider who never loses sight of that and holds space me through my journey to becoming a
for people appropriately. healthcare provider!
32 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020–2021 SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS 33You can also read
