Jed Huntley

Jed is a 30 year old member of the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan who is in the second year of a combined education and kinesiology program at the University of Regina. He is a talented Métis jig dancer and active volunteer who was on the Dean’s Honours List in his first year, and plans to stay on it until he graduates. One of his professors says he has proven himself to be both a team player and a leader of distinction who demonstrates high-level thinking. His sponsor says Jed is always open to new experiences and willing to contribute his time and energy. Jed plans to make a career teaching how to combat today’s health issues by making healthier choices.

Anthony Issac

Anthony is a 20 year old status Ojibway from the Walpole Island First Nation in Ontario who is in the third year of a bachelor’s program in health sciences at the University of Western Ontario. Physically fit and active, he is a hard-working student with a full schedule of on-and off-campus volunteer activities. One of his professors says Anthony is genuinely excited about the tasks he has undertaken. His sponsor lauds his communications skills and his ability to take on leadership roles. Anthony plans to study either dentistry or occupational therapy in graduate school and work to improve the health of Aboriginal people.

David McKennitt

David is a 25 year old status Ojibway from the Sandy Bay First Nation in Manitoba who is in the second year of medical school at the University of Alberta. A published author and accomplished student, he has extensive research experience and was named a youth role model by the National Aboriginal Health Organization. One of his instructors calls him an outstanding and capable student who is a proven leader. His sponsor says that as a volunteer he is a godsend, going above and beyond what has been asked of him time after time. David hopes to obtain a position as a medical officer so he can teach, continue his research, and act as a mentor to the Aboriginal community.

Valerie Moore

Valerie is a 22 year old non-status Algonquin from Québec who is in the third year of a business administration and finance course at Bishop’s University. She attended a commerce program at Heritage College and received the Commerce Award in her first year.. This is her second FAAY award. She was an honours student all through high school, college and university, where she was asked to join the Golden Key International Honour Society. One of her professors calls Valerie an excellent student who easily demonstrates her leadership in any group learning activity. Her sponsor calls her relentless in her efforts to help his business succeed. After graduating, Valerie will bring her skills back to her community.

Harriet Palma

Harriet is a 42 year old status Tl’etinqox-t’in from the Anaham First Nation in British Columbia who is in the first year of a master’s program in counselling psychology at the University of B.C. She returned to school in 2000 and her experience at the Native Education Centre helped her gain the confidence to build a successful career in human resources. Harriet also holds a Bachelor of Social Work from UBC. One of her professors calls her highly motivated and mature. Her sponsor speaks of her inspiring presence and compassion. After graduation Harriet plans to work as a counsellor in the Aboriginal community.

Julie Williams

Julie is a 21 year old non-status Ojibway from Winnipeg who is in the fourth year of a double major in criminal justice and sociology at the University of Winnipeg. She volunteers with a non-profit counselling agency that works with high-risk offenders who have been returned to the community. One of Julie’s professors believes that she is in the top 5% of students he has taught over the course of his career. Her sponsor says she is highly perceptive and has a caring and firm attitude toward the offenders she has worked with. Julie hopes to work in the youth corrections field, probably as a probation officer, after she graduates.