Jordan Bennett

Jordan is a 21 year old non-status Mi’kmaq from the Indian Head First Nation in Newfoundland and Labrador who is in the fourth year of a fine arts program at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College of Memorial University. Already an accomplished artist, he exhibited his work in Europe during a study term in England and participated in the National Artists program at the 2007 Canada Winter Games in Yukon. One of his professors lauds his talent as an artist and his entrepreneurship. His sponsor says he is honest, kind, humble and devoted to reviving the Mi’kmaq heritage. Jordan hopes to complete a master of visual arts program and attain a background in Aboriginal studies so he can return home and teach.

Ruth Anne Blake

Ruth Anne is a 42 year old status Gwich’in from the Tetlit Gwich’in First Nation in the Northwest Territories who is in the first year of a master’s program in social work at the University of Regina. Ruth Anne has achieved a high academic standing at school and was on the president’s honour roll at the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College. One of her instructors says she has very strong research and writing skills. Her sponsor says she is an excellent social worker with a deep commitment to her clients. After obtaining her master’s degree, Ruth Anne would like to work in service delivery that promotes the diverse cultures in the North.

Jolene Bourque

Jolene is a 26 year old Métis from the Northwest Territories who is in the fourth year of a bachelor of education program at Aurora College. This is her second FAAY award. She is the proud mother of a five year old son who inspires her to keep going forward. One of her instructors says Jolene is developing into a great educator who will earn respect wherever life’s path unfolds. Her sponsor speaks of her professionalism and the wonderful reviews she receives from teachers and supervisors. After she finishes her own education Jolene plans to have an impact as a teacher in the Territories.

Genessa Sam

Genessa is a 24 year old status Nlhaka’pamux from the Lytton First Nation in British Columbia who is in the first year of an Aboriginal community and health development program at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology. Being chosen as Lytton’s Youth Ambassador in 2004 had a profound effect on her personal growth and attitude toward the future. One of her teachers says Genessa is a mature young lady who is ready to take on any challenge. Her sponsor calls her an excellent role model for Aboriginal youth. Genessa will return to work in her band’s health department and says she has a keen interest in the health field, particularly counselling.

Sonja Voyageur

Sonja is a 36 year old status Dene from the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation in Alberta who is in her third year of a BA management program at Athabasca University. She is on leave from her job at Syncrude where she started as a heavy equipment operator ten years ago. One of her instructors calls her a dedicated student who keeps a high academic average despite all her work in the community. Her sponsor says that her organization is proud and happy to have Sonja as a volunteer. A single mother of three girls, Sonja intends to complete the Human Resource Major program at Athabasca and then return to Syncrude to work in the HR or the Aboriginal development departments.

Melanie Wabano

Melanie is a 21 year old status Cree from the Attawapiskat First Nation in Ontario who is in the second year of a Bachelor of Arts– Law program at Carleton University. She enjoys playing hockey and soccer and intends to try out for the Carleton Raven soccer team. Through hard work and determination she has made it through a personal crisis and is now focusing on her future. One of her teachers says Melanie has the characteristics of a successful student and individual. Her sponsor believes she is sincere in her efforts and committed to move forward independently in her life. Melanie hopes to one day attend law school and eventually practise criminal law, focusing on young Aboriginal clients.

Heidi Dixon

Heidi is a non-status Gwich’in from Inuvik, Northwest Territories who is in grade 11 at Gander Collegiate in Gander. This is her second FAAY award. She has been an honours student for four years and she is a talented public speaker, musician and dancer. Her recent volunteer activity with a regional hospital has convinced her of the value of health professionals. Heidi suffers from type II diabetes and plans to pursue future studies in genetic diabetes or pediatric endocrinology.

Suzanne Landry

Suzanne is a 16 year old status Dene from the Tlicho First Nation in the Northwest Territories who is in grade 10 at École St. Patrick High School. A high-performance soccer player and honour roll student, she is currently fund-raising for a school trip to China. Suzanne is not sure what she wants to do yet, but she is sure that she will go to university.