Anne Marie Alikashuak

Anne Marie is a 23-year-old Inuk from Whale Cove, Nunavut who is in the first year of an arts program at the University of Windsor in Ontario. This is her second FAAY award. Anne Marie is very interested in high technology and expects to declare a major in computer science this year. One of her sponsors speaks of the warm and caring manner she displayed toward the students she worked with during a co-op placement. Another tells us of Anne Marie’s joyous attitude which she transmitted to her fellow workers and the patrons of the local library. Anne Marie plans to become a teacher and work in the north once she obtains her education degree.

Dayle Borle

Dayle is a 22-year-old Métis from Red Deer, Alberta who is in the third year of a co-op chemical engineering program at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. An award-wining scholar and athlete, she has also been honoured for her work by the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers. One of her professors tells us of her impressive analytical skills and excellent teamwork and leadership abilities. Her sponsor speaks of her dedication, initiative and commitment to the work at hand. After she finishes school, Dayle plans to make a career in Alberta’s booming petroleum industry.

Brock Campbell

Brock is a 25-year-old Métis from Winnipeg who is in the second year of a civil engineering program at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg. He and his wife have two children. A talented football player in high school, he has volunteered as a tutor for other Aboriginal students since entering university. One of his professors says he is genuinely motivated to become an engineer and is doing very well academically. His sponsor says Brock has shown incredible determination in successfully returning to university after going to work after high school. Brock’s goal is to build a good life for his family by making a career as a consulting engineer.

Paul Carriere

Paul is a 23-year-old member of the North Fraser Métis Association from Port Coquitlam, B.C. who is in the fourth year of an engineering physics program at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby. He is an A+ student and is active in his school chapter of Engineers Without Borders and sings with the SFU “Rhythm Collective.” His professor says Paul is in the top two per cent of students he has taught and his future accomplishments will reflect well on any organization that helps him continue his education. His sponsor calls him diligent and reliable and praises his friendliness and attention to detail. Paul plans to work as a electronic research engineer after he graduates.

Amanda Chester

Amanda is 27-year-old non-status Carrier/Cree/Métis from Whistler, B.C. who is in the second year of a child and youth counselling program at Douglas College in New Westminster. She is an honours student who dedicates a great deal of volunteer time to the youth of her community. One of her instructors says she is an outstanding student who sets a standard for quality child and youth care work when she is on practicum. Her sponsor says in her work as a peer educator, Amanda is enthusiastic and energetic and a great asset to the team. After finishing at Douglas, she plans to pursue a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Victoria and make a career in youth and child care.

Kerissa Dickie

Kerissa is 26-year-old status Slavey-Dene from the Fort Nelson First Nation in B.C. who is in the fourth year of a fine arts-writing program at the University of Victoria. She recently entered a writing competition and had a story accepted for publication. She spent a year of high school as an exchange student in South America, an experience that broadened her view of the world. One of her professors calls her writing smart and surprising, funny and moving. Her sponsor says Kerissa faced the trials confronting Aboriginal youth with a quiet, fierce determination. Once she graduates, Kerissa plans to make a living as a writer, hopefully with an Aboriginal publication.

Keesic Douglas

Keesic is a 33-year-old status Ojibway from the Mnjikaning First Nation in Rama, Ontario who is in the final year of a bachelor of fine arts (photography) program at the Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto. Already a widely-exhibited photographer and film-maker, Keesic devotes time to leading workshops in Toronto’s Aboriginal community. This is his second FAAY award. One of his instructors calls him a highly motivated, creative and articulate student who is always willing to lend a helping hand to his peers. His sponsor says he has volunteered his time most generously in the community. Keesic is thinking of pursuing a master’s degree so that he can teach photography at the university level.

Rémi Dupont

Rémi is a 20-year-old Métis from St.-George, Manitoba who is in the first year of a pharmacy technician program at Winnipeg Technical College. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the Collège universitaire de Saint-Boniface, where he was on the Dean’s list and won many academic awards. One of his professors says he has excellent critical analysis skills and was always a pleasure to have in class. His sponsor calls him a responsible, sincere and attentive team player who is aware of and sensitive to the needs of Aboriginal youth. After finishing at WTC, Rémi plans to study pharmacy at the University of Manitoba.

Jenny Kay Dupuis

Jenny is a 28-year-old Métis from North Bay, Ontario who is in the final year of a master’s of education in special education at Brandon University in Manitoba. She is also completing two certificate programs in learning strategies and assistive technologies. Jenny holds a BA and a BEd and taught high school for several years. Throughout her university career Jenny worked full-time to help pay for her education. One of her professors says she is able to engage and encourage students of diverse abilities. Her sponsor speaks of her demonstrated positive leadership skills and self-determination. After graduation, Jenny plans to work in the area of special education at the post-secondary level.

Kristin Filiatrault

Kristin is a 20-year-old status Mohawk from Kahnawake, Quebec who is in the first year of an international development program at McGill University in Montreal. This is her second FAAY award. An honours student, Kristin is a talented synchronized swimmer and figure skater who is helping to pay her way at school by working as a lifeguard and swimming coach. One of her professors says she has an infectious work ethic that inspires her colleagues. Her sponsor speaks of her friendly, sincere and respectful approach and says she made an enthusiastic contribution. Kristin hopes to work in international development and conservation with an NGO after she graduates.

Melanie Fontaine

Melanie is a 19-year-old Métis member of the East Coast First People from Richibucto, New Brunswick who is in the first year of a business management program at New Brunswick Community College in Dieppe, N.B. Her busy schedule of sports and extra-curricular activities in high school did not detract from her school work. One of her teachers says Melanie is a hard worker who never gives up and that one of her greatest qualities is her warmth of character. Her sponsor says it was a pleasure to have Melanie around and calls her a team player. After she finishes school, Melanie hopes to study esthetics and one day have her own business selling cosmetic products.

Michael Francois

Michael is a 24-year-old status Dene from the Yellowknife Dene First Nation in the Northwest Territories who is in a one-year pre technology program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Edmonton, which will lead to a two-year engineering technology program. Michael returned to school after several years because he found he could not make a decent living without an education. One of his instructors mentions his A+ average and calls him an excellent student with a quick wit and a great sense of humour. His sponsor says Michael sees problems as challenges that present an opportunity to do his best. Michael has a newborn son and he plans to complete his education as the first step in building a good life for his family.

Stephen George

Stephen is a 36-year-old non-status Mi’kmaq from Newfoundland and Labrador who is in the third year of a masters program in folklore at Memorial University in St. John’s, NL. This is his second FAAY award. Stephen spent time conducting ethnographic research at the Six Nations reserve at Oshweken, Ontario with the Haudenosaunee last winter for an important term paper. He has worked as a teacher and community worker on reserves across eastern Canada. One of his professors says he takes a leadership role in building bridges between cultures. His sponsor praises his high degree of creativity in helping design youth programs. Stephen plans to work in the media and continue teaching after he graduates.

Jarvis Googoo

Jarvis is a 25-year-old status Mi’kmaq from the We’koqma’a First Nation in Nova Scotia who is in the second year of law school at Dalhousie University in Halifax. This is his second FAAY award. He holds a B.A cum laude from St. Mary’s University. Jarvis is a multi-award winning student, a talented writer, an acclaimed public speaker and amateur actor. One of his professors lauds his professionalism, integrity and reliability. His sponsor, his high school principal, says Jarvis is one of the most focused, engaging and successful students he has met in his 18 years as an educator. After his call to the Bar, Jarvis plans to practice in the areas of Aboriginal and business law..

Taylor Henshaw

Taylor is a 23-year-old Métis from Surrey, B.C. who is in the first year of law school at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. He holds a BA from the same university. This is his second FAAY award. In his first year at UBC, he captained his junior team to the Western Canadian championship and has since volunteered as a minor hockey coach. His professor calls him an outstanding candidate for a scholarship. His sponsor praises his ability to teach while keeping the game fun. Taylor wants to touch the lives of thousands of people at the global level, but knows that just putting a smile on the face of someone less fortunate would be a victory.

Neepekan Hunt

Neepekan is a 31-year-old status Ojibway/Cree from the Northwest Angle #37 First Nation in Ontario who is in the third year of a bachelor of nursing program at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg. She is the single mother of five children. Neepekan teaches women of all ages how to bead, sew and work with porcupine quills. Her star blankets are especially prized. One of her professors believes she has an enormous potential for success. Her sponsor calls her capable, motivated, ambitious and determined. Neepekan plans to become a nurse practitioner and return to an isolated northern community to work.

Monique Kimber

Monique is a 30-year-old status Sto: Lo from the Cheam First Nation in B.C. who is in the fourth year of a culture and communications program at the University of Calgary. This is her second FAAY award. Despite being the single mother of a three-year-old son, Monique is extensively involved in the community and has many extra-curricular activities at school. Her professor says she has very strong skills in academic research, analysis and writing and lauds her exceptional verbal communication abilities. Her sponsor speaks of her consistent drive and determination. Monique plans to attend law school after she finishes her degree.

Jennifer Kolisnyk

Jennifer is a 19-year-old Métis from Winnipeg who is in the second year of an administrative studies program at the University of Winnipeg. She is an award-winning student who volunteers with the Kinew Local of the Manitoba Métis Federation, is active in her church and enjoys community soccer. One of Jennifer’s teachers says her work and study skills are excellent and she gets along well with teachers and other students. Her sponsor calls her a good role model who is very involved with her community at the grassroots level. After graduation, Jennifer plans to go into business with the eventual goal of starting her own company.

Terris Mah

Terris is a 26-year-old status Cree from the Alexander First Nation in Alberta who is in the final year of a combined BA (Native Studies)/BEd program at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. He and his wife, also a student, have three young children. One of his professors praises his combination of intellectual and social strengths that made him a key member of the class. His sponsor says he is highly intelligent and respectful of others and dedicated to his native culture. After he finishes school, Terris plans to return home to bring an Aboriginal perspective to teaching high school.

Lianne Mantla

Lianne is a 26-year-old status Dene from the Dogrib Rae First Nation in Behchoko, Northwest Territories, who is in the third year of a nursing program at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. She is a graduate of Aurora College in Yellowknife and worked as a Registered Nurse for three years before returning to university for a post-RN degree. One of her instructors calls her admirable and says more education can only enhance her already substantial leadership skills. Her sponsor speaks of Lianne’s qualities of perseverance, self motivation and determination both at school and in her many community activities. After graduation, Lianne plans to return home to work.

Kimberley Miller

Kimberley is a 23-year-old non-status Algonquin from Maniwaki, Quebec who is in the first year of a masters of linguistics program at the University of Ottawa, where she graduated with her BA last year. This is her second FAAY award. She was on the Dean’s List in each of her undergraduate years and is a member of the Golden Key Honour Society. One of her professors says she is one of the most promising students ever enrolled in the department and that her intellectual and research skills are way above average. Her sponsor says she respects people she works with and shows great initiative. Kimberley plans to pursue a doctorate in linguistics, do research and teach.

Lori Mishibinijima

Lori is a 25-year-old status Ojibway/Odawa from the Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve in Ontario who is in the third year of law at Osgoode Hall Law School at York University in Toronto. She holds a BSW from Ryerson University in Toronto. Lori has volunteered extensively in the Aboriginal community and is on the board of Na-Me-Res, a housing program for Aboriginal men and youth. One of her professors believes she will make a positive contribution as a lawyer. Lori’s sponsor says she has shown herself to be a responsible, compassionate and hard-working person. After her call to the Bar, Lori plans to work to use the law to benefit all Aboriginal people.

Tiffany Monkman

Tiffany is a 20-year-old Métis from Winnipeg, Manitoba who is in the third year of a mathematics and business program at the University of Manitoba. A competitive swimmer, she is a member of the U of M Bison Swim team. She won 13 medals at the 2002 North American Indigenous Games. One of her professors says the initiative she shows signifies that Tiffany takes her academic career seriously. Her sponsor says she is a very determined young woman who will excel in anything she puts her mind to. Tiffany plans to transfer to the Faculty of Commerce and study accounting and pursue her articles before starting a business career.

Melanie Parsons

Melanie is a 23-year-old Métis from Calgary, Alberta who is in the second year of a communications and public relations program at Mount Royal College in Calgary. She has participated in youth exchange programs to Guyana and Sri Lanka, is a volunteer youth mentor and has been a member of the board of Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth. One of her instructors praises her independence, diligence and creativity. Her sponsor says she is professional, driven and dedicated to excellence. Melanie plans to make a career in communications, hopefully with an Aboriginal company or organization.

Corrine Peters

Corrine is a 40-year-old status Ojibway from the Long Plain First Nation in Manitoba who is in the third year of a social work program at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg. She is a single mother of four daughters and has also taken three foster children into her home. This is her second FAAY award. Corrine received the Governor-General’s medal upon completion of her two-year diploma in Aboriginal child and family services. One of her professors says she was one of his most outstanding students. Her sponsor speaks of Corrine’s compassion and empathy and says she is proud to know her. After obtaining her BSW, she plans to work on her home reserve.

Leigh-anne Sheldon-Houle

Leigh-anne is a 28-year-old status Cree from the Swan River First Nation in Alberta who is in the fourth year of a psychology program on-line at Athabaska University while living in Slave Lake, Alberta. She is a multiple-scholarship winning student, which helps make ends meet for her and her husband and three children. One of her tutors calls her motivated, self-disciplined and extremely high achieving. Her sponsor says Leigh-anne, with her family, school and volunteer responsibilities, is an inspiration to everyone who knows her. Leigh-anne would like to make a career facilitating young and adult education programs in her community.

Micah Smith

Micah is a 23-year-old non-status Okanagan from the Upper Similkameen First Nation in B.C. who is in the second year of an engineering program at the University of Guelph in Ontario. He traveled and volunteered in Latin America and Africa before returning to Canada to take up his studies. One of his professors tells us that his first year average was 17 points higher than his high school average, which he feels is exceptional and speaks for his innate intelligence and ability to achieve when he is motivated. His sponsor calls him a hard working, dedicated, outgoing young man who is a natural leader. After he qualifies as an engineer, Micah wants to make a positive contribution to his community.

Tracee Smith

Tracee is a 28-year-old status Missanabie Cree from the Missanabie Cree First Nation in Ontario who is in the first year of an MBA in a community economic development program at Cape Breton University in Nova Scotia. She holds a BFA in dance from York University in Toronto. This is her second FAAY award. An award-winning dancer and choreographer, she is working with the Canada Council on the 2007 Canada Dance Festival. One of her professors says she was inspired by Tracee’s resourcefulness, energy and insight. Her sponsor praises her leadership in running a dance program at an elementary school on the Six Nations reserve. After completing her studies, Tracee hopes to work as a consultant to First Nations governments.

Jennifer Soley

Jennifer is a 23-year-old status Ojibway from the Peguis First Nation in Manitoba who is in the second year of an engineering technology program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Edmonton. She is the single mother of a 2-year-old son. Last summer she had a work placement at CNRL’s plant in Wolfe Lake and loved every minute of it. One of her instructors says Jennifer has a great attitude and is a natural leader who is doing excellent work. Her sponsor says she is extremely motivated and shows great determination in succeeding in her studies. Jennifer wants to be a good example to her son by building a successful career in power engineering, maybe back at CNRL.

Connie Stewart

Connie is a 35-year-old status Gwich’in from the Tetlit Gwich’in First Nation in the Northwest Territories who is in the second year of a management studies program at Aurora College in Inuvik, NWT. She and her partner Glen have two young sons. She also has a criminal justice diploma from Aurora. She and Glen returned to school after they discovered the limits the lack of an education placed on them. Her sponsor tells us of the range of volunteer activities she has been involved in; she calls Connie a great role model for Aboriginal women. Glen and Connie hope to run a traditional camp on the land to teach life skills to at-risk youth.

Tara Stigen

Tara is a 31-year-old status Dene from the Deh Gah Gotie First Nation in the Northwest Territories who is in the first year of a native studies program at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. She holds a diploma in Aboriginal child and family services from Keyano College in Fort McMurray. This is her second FAAY award. One of her instructors calls her a hard-working student with a genuine interest in bettering her education. Her sponsor says she has an excellent ability to connect with and relate to youth. After graduation, Tara plans to return to the North and work in Aboriginal relations.

Johnny Van Camp

Johnny is a 26-year-old status Tli-Cho from the Dogrib Rae First Nation in the Northwest Territories who is in the second year of law school at the University of Victoria. He is a graduate of the management program of the University of Lethbridge. This is his third FAAY award. Johnny was a successful entrepreneur in his home town of Fort Smith before he returned to school. One of his professors has been deeply impressed by his keen mind and his dedication to justice. His sponsor speaks of his exemplary work ethic and his many contributions to the community. Johnny intends to help meld the principles and spirit of Aboriginal law with traditional Western precepts in his practice of the law.