Andrew is a 27-year old status Ojibway from Ontario’s Beausoleil First Nation who is in the second year of a hotel and resort operations course at Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario. He is a mature student and the father of two children who realises he must complete his education to become an individual with purpose. His instructor calls him hard-working, very conscientious and a great asset. His sponsor says he is a unique individual, admirable and wise for his years. After he graduates, Andrew plans to go on to university to study business administration and eventually manage a long-term care facility.

Rachel is a 26-year old status Gitskan from Gitwangak First Nation in northern B.C. who is in the first year of a hospitality and resort management program at the Canadian Tourism College in Surrey. She has run a fashion design business, Raven Tails Studio, with her mother for several years and has now decided to move into the hospitality industry. One of her instructors says she focuses steadily and realistically on what needs to be accomplished. Her sponsor says she is respectful and knowledgeable and has a positive attitude. After graduation, Rachel plans to return home to the junction of the Yellowhead and Alaska highways to open a bed and breakfast.

Jasmine is a 21-year old Métis from Edmonton who is in the second year of a culinary arts program at Alberta’s Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, where she is on the Dean’s Honour Roll. She worked for two years after high school to help support her mother and younger brother before deciding she needed to get back to school. One of her instructors praises her perseverance and mature sense of priorities. Another speaks of her volunteer work with Le Club Culinaire, which provides meals for non-profit organizations. After finishing her program Jasmine plans to seek a diploma in hospitality supervision and one day travel to exotic places and work at resorts.

Jean-Eric is a 19-year old Métis from Winnipeg who is in the first year of a commerce program in the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba. He successfully completed a one-year university preparation course at U of M last year. Jean-Eric is vice-president of the Association of Aboriginal Commerce Students at Asper. One of his professors speaks of his class leadership and the quality of his thoughtful and insightful interventions. His sponsor calls him a dedicated and committed person who does much to give back to his community. Jean-Eric is majoring in finance, entrepreneurship and Aboriginal business, with a view to making a career in business.

Trisha is an 18-year old Métis from Enderby, B.C. who is in the first year of a culinary arts program at Okanagan University College in Kelowna. She graduated from Pleasant Valley Secondary in Armstrong with high honours. She is also a long-time member of the Armstrong 4-H Swine Club where she won many ribbons and competitions. One of her teachers describes her facing up to challenges with a smile and lots of determination. Her sponsor, her 4-H leader, says she has continually improved in all areas of the program and is a well-rounded 4-H member. Trisha plans to become a pastry chef because she loves to work with her hands and imagination in the kitchen.

Stacey is a 19-year old Métis from St. Eustache, Manitoba who is in the second year of a hotel and restaurant management program at Red River College in Winnipeg. She is a graduate of the Canadian Academy of Travel and Tourism. She is an accredited figure skating and swimming instructor and plays the piano when she can find the time. One of her instructors says her academic achievements are well-earned and calls her bright and insightful. Her sponsor extols her commitment to volunteerism and the benefits she has brought to her rural community. Stacey plans to work either in the restaurant or hotel industry when she graduates.

Victor is a 16-year old status Ojibway from Big Grassy River First Nation in Ontario who is in grade 11 at Children of the Earth High School in Winnipeg. He is an active community volunteer who is a great help at the school sweat lodges he attends regularly. Victor plans to study culinary arts after high school and one day work as a chef, perhaps at his own restaurant.