Ethan Baptiste

Ethan is a 29-year-old status Syilx (Okanagan) from the Osoyoos (Nk’Mip) First Nation in B.C. who is in the first year of master of arts program at UBC-Okanagan in Kelowna. He holds a B.A. from the same school. Ethan and his wife, who is a student at Okanagan College, have two children. One of his instructors tells us that his participation in the classroom has enhanced the learning experience of other students. His sponsor says Ethan has taken a leadership role on campus and has become a role model for other students. Ethan plans to pursue his doctorate in education and work in his home community.

Jordan Ducharme

Jordan is a 26-year-old status Cree from the Tallcree First Nation in Alberta who is in the fourth year of a combined B.Sc. B.A. in psychology and native American studies at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. Jordan is an award-winning scholar who is a talented athlete and dedicated community volunteer. One of his professors says Jordan’s performance was excellent and that he always tries to exceed the goals he has set for himself. His sponsor calls him an amazing volunteer who surpassed all expectations. Jordan plans to continue on to his master’s and doctorate and practice as a child psychologist.

Christine Hudrick

Christine is a 30-year-old Métis mature student from Winnipeg who is in the fourth year of a social work program at the University of Manitoba. She comes from an extremely dysfunctional family and was motivated to take social work because of it. One of her professors calls her a very motivated, bright and energetic student with a very high grade point average. Christine’s sponsor says she has been a tremendous help at the youth shelter she volunteers with. After she graduates, Christine plans to work in the inner city of Winnipeg to help rebuild families like hers.

Chenoa J.B. Plain

Chenoa is a 22-year-old status Navajo/Ojibwe from the Aamjiwnaang First Nation in Ontario who is in the third year of a child and youth worker program at Lambton College in Sarnia, Ontario. She is a talented fancy shawl and jingle dress dancer and has competed in pow wows across Turtle Island. One of her instructors says she is a mature student who has demonstrated a commitment to her studies and her field work. Chenoa’s sponsor says she demonstrated the ability to be a professional in a challenging field. After graduation, Chenoa plans to return home and make a career working with the children and youth of her community.

Debra Saunders

Debra is a 37-year-old status Cree from the York Factory Cree Nation in Manitoba who is in the third year of a social work program at the University of Manitoba. This is her second FAAY award. She returned to school to seek an Aboriginal child and family services diploma after working in child care for many years. One of her instructors calls her a strong, respectful woman who is dedicated to her goal of becoming a professional social worker. Her sponsor says Debra shows compassion and understanding and is a positive role model for the young people she works with. After graduation, Debra intends to practice as a social worker in Winnipeg.

Nibisha Sioui

Nibisha is a 24-year-old status Algonquin from the Abitibiwinni First Nation in Québec who is in the third year of a PhD in community psychology at the Université du Québec á Montréal. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology from the Université de Montréal. She remains active in her northern community despite having lived in the south for several years. Her thesis supervisor says she is well-suited to an academic career and knows how to translate theory into practice. Her sponsor praises her initiative and her determination to succeed. After graduation, she intends to work on the psycho-social development of Aboriginal communities.

Joshua D. Sutherland

Joshua is a 24-year-old Métis from Brookfield, Nova Scotia who is in the first year of law school at the University of Toronto. He has a BA from the University of Windsor in Ontario and has completed a pre-law program at the University of Saskatchewan. He is a survivor of the Boxing Day, 2004 Sumatran Tsunami and has spoken and written widely about the event. One of his professors speaks of his high motivation and ability to make a contribution to any community of which he is a part. His sponsor says he has the abilities and drive to be an outstanding lawyer. Joshua plans to practice on behalf of Canada’s Aboriginal community after he is called to the Bar.