Terri-Leigh Aldred

Terri is a 21 year old non-status Carrier from Tl’azt’en First Nation in Prince George, B.C. who is in the first year of medical school at the University of Alberta. An award-winning student and community volunteer, she studied pharmacy for a year before being admitted to the Doctor of Medicine program at U of A. One of her professors says Terri always exceeded her expectations and has a very positive attitude toward learning. Her sponsor speaks of the hours she spent sharing time with the elders. After graduation, Terri plans to establish a family practice among the Aboriginal communities of the north.

Julie-Anne Andre

Julie-Anne is a 37 year old status Gwich’in from the Gwichya Gwich’in Band in the Northwest Territories who is in the first year of a natural resources technology program at Aurora College. A sergeant in the Canadian Rangers, she is the mother of twin daughters. After spending several years in the workforce, Julie-Anne returned to school in 2001 because she knew she couldn’t get far with a grade nine education. One of her instructors praises her vast experience on the land, which she happily shares with other students. Her sponsor calls her a proven worker and leader who manages her affairs professionally. After graduation, Julie-Anne hopes to bring her knowledge and experience to the Mackenzie Valley pipeline project.

Amanda Baumann

Amanda is a 26 year old Métis from Calgary who is in the second year of a master’s program in occupational therapy at McMaster University. She holds an honours BA from Wilfred Laurier University. She became interested in rehabilitation after helping her brother recover from a serious car accident. One of her professors speaks of her strong commitment to her community and her excellent leadership skills. Her sponsor says she has excellent communication skills and is very willing to help others. After practicing as a therapist for a few years, Amanda hopes to return to school and eventually teach occupational therapy, focusing on health policy and Aboriginal health.

Carolyn Brown

Carolyn is a 26 year old status Tsimshian from the Kitsumkalum First Nation in Terrace, B.C. who is in the first year of a master’s program in economics at Concordia University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and anthropology. A talented entrepreneur, she is also an accomplished seamstress and wood carver. One of her professors calls her hard-working and very intelligent. Her sponsor says her membership in Concordia’s Garnet Key society helped maintain the school’s reputation for academic excellence and social responsibility. After graduation, Carolyn plans to follow in the footsteps of her inspiration, Dr. Mohammed Yunus, and carry out economic research to adapt and develop a realistic and culture-specific program.

Brock Campbell

Brock is a 26 year old Manitoba Métis who is in the third year of an engineering program at the University of Manitoba. He and his wife have three children and this is his second FAAY award. An active and respected student leader, he has developed mentorship and support programs for his fellow students and has received several scholarships and awards. One of his professors calls him a very energetic and motivated young man who is keen to contribute to his colleagues’ success. His sponsor knows him as an impressive professional driven by a warm sense of duty toward others. Brock’s dream is to one day have his own consulting practice which would focus on community infrastructure and economic development.

Brett Croft

Brett is a 21 year old Métis from Campbellford, Ontario who is in the third year of a bachelor’s degree in business management at Dalhousie University. An Ontario Scholar who has made the Dean’s List and is ranked in the top 15% of the business management program, he is also an active and talented amateur athlete and coach. One of his professors calls him a diligent student and praises the way he has broadened his experience by taking courses far removed from his major, from biology to sociology to music. His sponsor says he has exceptional leadership qualities and is a great motivator and coach. Brett’s dream is to utilize his educational background and entrepreneurial skills and become a part of the banking industry.

John Croutch

John is a 47 year old status Ojibway who is a member of the Wikwemikong First Nation in Ontario. He is in the third year of an honours Bachelor of Arts and Science program at the University of Toronto. He is currently president of the Native Students Association. After running his own restaurant for many years, a personal health crisis forced him to re-examine his life and convinced him to return to school. One of his professors says he is committed to building bridges between cultures. His sponsor calls him highly reliable and well-respected by his peers. John feels that Aboriginal people are being held back by the widespread ignorance of their historical and contemporary experiences and plans to use his education to bridge that gap.

Madora Day

Madora is an 18 year old status Cree from the Keewaywin First Nation in Ontario who is in the first year of a business administration program at Lakehead University. Madora recently experienced a personal family loss and a health crisis for herself and her mother. With the help of her family and friends and her own perseverance she was able to maintain her honour roll standing. One of her teachers describes her as bright, thoughtful, creative, conscientious, resourceful, and reliable. Her sponsors say her skill and ability would be an asset in any environment. Madora’s personal experience with diabetes has inspired her plans to work with the Canadian Diabetes Association in educating Aboriginal people on the disease.

Kate Dedam

Kate is a 17 year old status Mi’kmaq from the Esgenoôpetitj (Burnt Church) First Nation in New Brunswick who is in the second year of a pre-vet program at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College. She maintained an average of over 80% while being an active volunteer in her church and community. One of her teachers says she has demonstrated outstanding academic performance and maintained a clear sense of purpose in her studies. Her sponsor says she wishes she had more volunteers like Kate. After finishing her pre-vet program, Kate hopes to study veterinary medicine at the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island.

Marcie Demmans

Marcie is a 21 year old Métis from Leamington, Ontario who is in the third year of a communications program at the University of Windsor. She has volunteered actively at school and in the community, and this year she is working as a teaching assistant at U of W. One of her professors describes her as a very conscientious, intelligent and curious student and speaks of her great talents as a conference organizer. Her sponsor says she has shown leadership and the flexibility to take on challenges and succeed. Marcie dreams of one day making a career in television production and broadcast journalism.

Kerissa Dickie

Kerissa is a 27 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. This is her second FAAY award. In high school she worked closely with a group of residential school survivors in her community to produce a book about their experiences. One of her professors says she is hugely creative, exacting, professional and very talented. Her sponsor says Kerissa is honest and open about her struggles and that her success gives others hope. Kerissa dreams of becoming a writer, and will have her first stories published this year.

Andre Doucette

Andre is a 21 year old Métis from Hammond, Ontario who is in the third year of a music program at the University of Ottawa. Deeply religious, he has been active in his church and in the spiritual life at school for many years. One of his teachers calls him a gifted musician and composer who enjoys sharing his remarkable musical talent. His sponsor says this fine individual will attain greatness in the future. Andre hopes to teach music in high school and perhaps one day start his own music academy.

Kyle Doucette

Kyle is a 20 year old Métis from Hammond, Ontario who is the second year of a music program at the University of Ottawa. He became a father for the first time just over a year ago and taught music through his first year at university to help make ends meet. One of his teachers says he has watched Kyle mature into a very talented, spirited and focused musician in the years he has known him. Kyle has been very active in his church for many years, recently serving as a Life Teen youth ministry volunteer. He hopes to make a career as a music teacher.

Jenny Kay Dupuis

Jenny is a 29 year old Métis from North Bay, Ontario who is in the first year of a doctoral program in educational leadership at the University of Calgary. She holds a BA from Nipissing University and an M Ed from Brandon University. This is her second FAAY award, one of many honours and awards she has received throughout her academic career. One of her professors says she has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic performance and leadership. Her sponsor calls her an exceptional and very committed person. Once she receives her doctorate, Jenny plans to continue to work in the education system advancing programs specifically for people with disabilities and Aboriginal people.

Melinda Fowler

Melinda is a 28 year old member of the Labrador Métis Nation who is in the first year of the medicine program at McMaster University. She is a registered nurse and a doctor of chiropractic. She was inspired to go into health care by her experience growing up in an isolated community that shared a clinic with four other small villages in Labrador. One of her instructors says Melinda’s clinical skills are above average, and that she has an excellent bedside manner and a passion for quality patient care. Her sponsor calls her a very conscientious, organized and responsible volunteer. Melinda plans to continue her studies and eventually become a surgeon.

Deborah Dawn Germain

Deborah is a 26 year old status Mi’kmaq from the Listuguj First Nation in Québec who is in the second year of an interior design program at St. Clair College. She has a BA in history and theory of architecture from Carleton University. She has been an outstanding student and committed volunteer for many years. One of her instructors praises her excellence in design and her exceptional work ethic. Her sponsor tells us of the many hours of volunteer work she puts in to assist Aboriginal students and communities. She hopes to specialize in “green” building practices and techniques, ultimately working in environmental and cultural design for First Nations communities.

Jarvis Googoo

Jarvis is a 26 year old status Mi’kmaq from the We’koqma’q First Nation in Nova Scotia who is in his third year of law at Dalhousie University. In 2005 he received a BA and graduated cum laude from St. Mary’s University. Jarvis was named the “Hooding Candidate” by his graduating class, making him the first Mi’kmaq ever to achieve this distinction. One of his professors speaks of his tenacious work ethic and his determination to excel in his legal education. His sponsor describes the tremendous impact Jarvis has had on the youth of We’koqma’q, and says he continues to inspire them every day. Jarvis will be articling with the Nova Scotia Legal Aid program after he graduates.

Isabelle Goyette

Isabelle is a 22 year old Métis from Gatineau, Québec who is in the third year of a teaching program at the Université de Sherbrooke. She has won many academic and community awards and has worked as a tutor over the years to hone her teaching skills. One of her professors calls her an excellent student with great determination who puts her heart into everything she does. Her sponsor says her positive outlook and eagerness to lend a hand immediately won the hearts of the children in her breakfast program. Isabelle plans to return to Gatineau to teach science and technology at the high school level.

Taylor Henshaw

Taylor is 24 year old member of the Nova Métis Heritage Association from B.C. who is in the second year of law school at the University of British Columbia. He holds a BA from the same school. This is his third FAAY award. A trip to South America last summer changed his outlook on life, and he has become fascinated with following world events. One of his professors says that Taylor excelled in his course, and is delighted that he is pursuing further studies. His sponsor speaks of the dedication he shows as a hockey coach, helping players to develop their skills while helping boys turn into young men. Taylor has decided to make a career at the United Nations and plans to study for a master of laws once he graduates.

Monique Hurteau

Monique is a 37 year old member of the Métis Nation of B.C. who is in the second year of an MBA program (management consulting) at Royal Roads University. She has recently started doing stand-up comedy to polish her presentation skills. One of her professors calls her a diligent and passionate learner with a strong academic orientation. Her sponsor calls her an instrumental volunteer whose dedication, spirit and passion are second to none. After graduation she plans to put her knowledge to work assisting businesses and health and fitness organizations in Aboriginal communities.

Amanda Issac

Amanda is a 25 year old status Mi’kmaq from the Listuguj First Nation in Québec who is in the second year of a Bachelor of Nursing (post-RN) program at the University of Ottawa. She is a graduate of the Dawson College nursing program. Her decision to pursue a nursing career was made after working at a summer camp for the handicapped. The joy she felt in helping the campers made her realize her purpose in life. One of her teachers lauds her critical thinking skills and openness to improvement. Her sponsor praises her incredible energy and positive attitude. Once she completes her work experience, Amanda plans to complete a master’s degree with a nurse practitioner option.

Jennifer Kolisnyk

Jennifer is a 20 year old member of the Métis Nation of Manitoba who is in the second year of a bachelor’s program in business administration at the University of Winnipeg. This is her second FAAY award. She is a recreational soccer player who is active in her church and with the U of W Aboriginal Students Association. One of her teachers calls her a very good student who balances her school work with many extra-curricular activities and a part-time job. Her sponsor speaks of her dedication to learning about her Métis culture and her work in that community. Jennifer plans to make a career in business in Winnipeg.

Jolene Lennie

Jolene is a 24 year old Inuit from the Northwest Territories who is in the first year of a natural resources technology course at Aurora College. She is the proud mother of a three year old son. One of her instructors praises her very strong work ethic and exceptional communications skills. Her sponsor says she has watched Jolene grow into a competent, kind, hard-working and caring young woman. After graduation, Jolene hopes to work as a park warden or resource officer, helping to preserve her homeland and her culture.

Janice Makokis

Janice is a 28 year old status Cree from the Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Alberta who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in law at the University of Ottawa while simultaneously completing an MA in indigenous governance at the University of Victoria. She currently holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alberta. Janice was inspired to pursue law after discovering how important the oil and gas industry will be to Saddle Lake’s prosperity. One of her professors speaks of her leadership and research strengths and her excellent writing abilities. Her sponsor tells of her personal and intellectual growth during her post-secondary education experience. Janice plans to practice Aboriginal, environmental, and oil and gas law.

Cheyenne Mary

Cheyenne is a 30 year old status Mi’kmaq from the Bear River First Nation in Nova Scotia who is in the first year of a master’s program in public health at Lakehead University. She holds two Bachelor of Science degrees (in kinesiology and nursing) from Dalhousie University. She is a member of the Aboriginal Nurses Association of Canada and the First Nations representative of the New Brunswick chapter of the Community Health Nurses Association of Canada. One of her professors says Cheyenne is well organized and articulate. Her sponsor speaks of her dedicated work helping the community dance troupe. Cheyenne plans to work as a community health nurse and program coordinator in Bear River.

Janice Mathewsie

Janice is a 35 year old Inuit from Cape Dorset, Nunavut who is in the fourth year of a bachelor’s course in management at Concordia University College of Alberta. She holds a diploma in management studies from Grant MacEwan College. Janice decided to return to school because she believes that Nunavut will prosper with leaders that model self-belief and integrity. One of her professors says that Janice practices what she preaches and that it is easy to see that she will be a leader some day. Her sponsor respects her opinions and decision-making abilities. Janice plans to pursue an MBA after her undergraduate degree and eventually return to Nunavut to work in a leadership capacity.

Kayla Miles

Kayla is a 21 year old non-status Mi’kmaq from the Flat Bay Indian Band in Newfoundland and Labrador who is in the fourth year of a criminology program at St. Thomas University. This is her fourth FAAY award. Elected as a member of her student government, Kayla is currently the Chair for the Student’s Union. One of her teachers calls her a natural leader who takes great pride in helping others. Her sponsor, her Sea Cadets commanding officer, says she is extremely organized, with excellent communications skills and is always quick to volunteer to help. Kayla plans to study law after graduation and eventually practice back in Newfoundland.

Tiffany Monkman

Tiffany is a 21 year old Métis from Winnipeg who is in the fourth year of a psychology program at the University of Manitoba. This is her second FAAY award. A member of the Aboriginal Business Education Program, she is also a competitive swimmer with the U of M Bison swim team. One of her professors tells us she achieved four unprecedented perfect marks in the assignments he gave her. Her sponsor says Tiffany has proved her dedication, positive attitude and readiness to take on any challenge. Tiffany plans to obtain a bachelor of commerce and eventually work in the accounting or marketing field.

Corinne Peters

Corinne is a 41 year old status Ojibway from the Long Plain First Nation in Manitoba who is in the fourth year of a bachelor’s program in social work at the University of Manitoba. This is her third FAAY award. She is a single mother of four daughters ranging in age from 14 to 21, all of whom are in school. One of her professors says she is the most outstanding student academically he has ever had. Her sponsor says her work has been invaluable to the community and she has been irreplaceable as a volunteer. Corinne plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work and then work back home.

Morgan Kahentón:ni Phillips

Morgan is 45 year old status Mohawk from Kahnawake, Québec who is in the fourth year of an honours BA in anthropology at Concordia University. Morgan is a single parent who is very dedicated to her son. She is active in her community and has worked on several different research projects. One of her professors says she is an impressive student and superior researcher and believes she must pursue graduate studies. Her sponsor calls her insightful, inquisitive and interesting, and a role model for the younger students. Morgan plans to carry on to graduate school next year and make a career in anthropological research.

Shannon Rivard

Shannon is a 36 year old status Carrier from the Nak’azdli First Nation in Fort St. James, B.C. who is in the first year of a business administration program at the College of New Caledonia. Shannon was born with a mild case of cerebral palsy and feared she would never have children. Today she and her husband consider their three wonderful daughters a major blessing. One of her instructors says she overcomes obstacles every day and is setting an excellent example for her children. Her sponsor says she has shown great determination in her life and her studies. Shannon intends to apply to the business technology program and continue her journey into the business world.

Meghan Shannon

Meghan is a 19 year old Métis from Parksville, B.C. who is in the second year of a combined math and economics program at the University of Victoria. She is an active amateur athlete and volunteer. As a high school debater she drew the prosecution side in a re-enactment of the trial of Louis Riel. To her chagrin, she got a conviction. One of her professors speaks of her A+ marks and her all-around excellence. Her sponsor tells us of her achievements as a dancer and musician. Meghan plans to carry on to graduate school and eventually complete a doctorate program which will allow her to further her career options.

Tracee Smith

Tracee is a 29 year old status Cree from the Missanabie Cree First Nation in Ontario who is completing an MBA at Cape Breton University in Sydney, Nova Scotia. This is her third FAAY award. A talented dancer and choreographer, Tracee returned to school after a successful performing career in New York. She is currently studying full time, working as a manger for a financial services company, and producing a dance, music and film event featuring the youth of the Lac La Croix First Nation. She maintains excellent marks, according to one of her professors, who praises her commitment. Her sponsor is honoured to have Tracee working with his community. Tracee plans to study law part time over the next few years.

Micah Smith

Micah is a 24 year old non-status Okanagan from the Upper Similkameen First Nation in B.C. who is in the third year of an environmental engineering program at the University of Guelph. This is his second FAAY award. Micah drifted a bit after high school, but his retail experience was a major factor in his decision to return to school. One of his professors speaks of his quiet leadership and believes he will be an excellent engineer. His sponsor tells us of his hard work in establishing a chapter of a human rights campaign on campus. Micah is grateful for the opportunities available to him in Canada and intends use his skills to do what he can to help humanity.

Colin Sproat

Colin is a 21 year old Métis who is a member of the Eastern Woodlands Nation of Nova Scotia. He is in the fourth year of an actuarial science program at the University of Alberta. University life has taught him the benefit of being a “balanced man,” paying attention to all areas of life rather than focusing relentlessly on one aspect such as career. One of his instructors says he thirsts for knowledge and strives for excellence. His sponsor says Colin is fair, caring and respectful of others. Colin plans to continue his studies to achieve the Chartered Entrepreneurial Risk Analyst designation and construct models for financial instruments.

Steven St. Amand

Steven is a 25 year old Ontario Métis who is in the fourth year of a business administration/aviation program at the University College of the Fraser Valley. Steven’s love of flying drove him back to school after a few years in the workforce left him unsatisfied. His flight instructor tells us how well-prepared he is for lessons and lauds his high level of self-motivation. His sponsor says he is a gentleman of extraordinary character. Steven, already a licensed private pilot, is working on his commercial ticket and plans to make a career in aviation. He looks forward to one day working for an airline and continuing his pursuit of an MBA.

Johnny Van Camp

Johnny is a 27 year old status Tli Cho from the Dogrib Rae First Nation in the Northwest Territories who is in the third year of law school at the University of Victoria. This is his fourth FAAY award. As he advances in law school, he is becoming increasingly passionate about the prospect of the law helping Aboriginal people redress the power imbalance that has arisen over the centuries. One of his professors believes that Johnny will make enormous contributions to Aboriginal Canadians. His sponsor speaks of the leadership and legal skills he demonstrates in his pro bono work. Johnny believes that Canada has much to gain by incorporating an Aboriginal perspective into its legal framework and he plans to work hard to achieve this goal.

Jeremiah Wawatie

Jeremiah is an 18 year old status Algonquin from the Barrier Lake First Nation in Québec who is in the first year of a social studies program at Sir John Abbott College in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Québec. After his family moved south, he went to school in Kitigan Zibi where he was elected class valedictorian by his peers. One of his teachers calls him an extremely conscientious student who participated in many extra-curricular activities. His sponsor speaks of the many academic awards he has won and the leadership role he played in and out of class. After college, Jeremiah plans to continue to university. He’s not sure yet what he will study but he is interested in culture and sociology.

Raylene Whitford

Raylene is 21 year old Métis from Alberta who is in the fifth year of a bachelor of commerce (accounting and international business) program at the University of Alberta. Last year an employment counsellor told her that she lacked finance and international business experience. In response, Raylene arranged a summer accounting job for herself in London, England. One of her professors calls her mature, personable and enjoyable to work with. Her sponsor says that as a student mentor she is eager to provide support and share her experiences with others. Raylene recently won a 2000-person competition for a graduate accounting position with industry giant KPMG, and will take her final chartered accountancy training in England.

Jada Yee

Jada is 28 year old status Lakota Sioux from the Wood Mountain First Nation in Saskatchewan who is in the third year of a business administration program at the First Nations University of Canada. A happily married father of two, he has combined full time employment with the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation with full time study at university. One of his professors calls him an outstanding student with a passion for learning and a drive to help younger students. His sponsor says he is a man with high integrity and honesty and is a loyal and dedicated manager. After he graduates Jada plans to remain in the gaming industry and one day start a business of his own.