Shannon Alec

Shannon is a 27 year old status Carrier from the Lake Babine First Nation in British Columbia who is in the first year of a culinary arts program at the College of New Caledonia. She was a rebellious teenager whose life experiences, family and community support have shaped her into the person she is today. One of her instructors calls her a deserving student who works hard to complete her assignments. Her sponsor says Shannon is a very enthusiastic volunteer and that working with someone with so much energy has been a pleasure. Shannon plans to pursue further post-secondary education and hopes to one day become a teacher.

Fernande Chiupka

Fernande is a 47 year old member of the Manitoba Métis Federation who is the first year of a business administration program at Assiniboine Community College. A talented professional musician, she also owns and manages a ranch and has raised a child on her own. One of her instructors says she excelled in all her courses and acted as a mentor for younger students. Her sponsor says Fernande has generously donated her time and musical talent to help with charity fundraising events. After she completes her business program Fernande plans to seek employment in her home community.

Erica Eden

Erica is a 21 year old member of the Manitoba Métis Federation from Brandon who is in the second year of a hotel and restaurant management program at Assiniboine Community College. She has worked in the hospitality industry and decided that it would be the career for her. One of her instructors says she sets high standards for herself, works hard to achieve them and has become a leader among her peers. Her sponsor calls her a conscientious worker with a vibrant personality and a confident and friendly attitude. Erica plans to expand her education and work experience by attending an international business course in Spain.

Kerrie Gladue

Kerrie is a 29 year old status Cree from the Ahtahkakoop First Nation in Saskatchewan who is in the fourth year of a business administration program at the First Nations University of Canada. This is her third FAAY award. She is a proud mother of three who still finds time to serve as president of her student council and serve on the university board of governors. One of her instructors says she has strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills. Her sponsor says Kerrie is always enthusiastic about whatever she undertakes, and he thinks her career will make a difference to the youth of the province. Kerrie plans to attend graduate school and eventually teach as a professor.

Tania Johnston

Tania is a 39 year old status Ojibway from Ontario’s Serpent River First Nation who is in the first year of a human resource management program at Cambrian College. She has a BA in psychology from York University and is a mother of four. She has always wanted to pursue a human resource designation, and when her chance came, she decided to leave her position with her community council and return to school. One of her professors speaks of her dedication and commitment to furthering her education. Her sponsor describes her as very dependable. Tania is considering pursuing a master’s degree in personnel psychology, but her ultimate goal is to work in Human Resource Management in the Aboriginal community.

Catherine Myette

Catherine is a 23 year old member of the Kespu’kwitk Métis Council of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia who is in the fourth year of a bachelor’s degree in science, specializing in human nutrition, at St. Francis Xavier University. This is her second FAAY award. She is an honours student who has been on the Dean’s List for the past two years. One of her professors says she is a very mature and responsible student who always conducts herself in a professional manner. Her sponsor says Catherine has been a wonderful role model for the young people in her program. Catherine plans to become a registered dietician and work as a clinical dietician to assist people with diabetes.

Mandy Belcourt

Mandy is a 17 year old Alberta Métis from Beaverlodge who is in grade 12 at Beaverlodge Regional High School. She plays and coaches volleyball and keeps up her grades. After high school Mandy plans to go to university to study psychology or architecture, as she is fascinated by how buildings and houses are designed. Mandy also intends on getting a pilot’s licence so she can fly a helicopter.

Janelle Pierre-Folster

Janelle is a 14 year old status Ojibway from the Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation in Manitoba who is in grade 9 at École Churchill High School in Winnipeg. She is a talented basketball and soccer player, a member of the first “All Aboriginal” district basketball team, and has played at both the winter and summer indigenous games. After high school Janelle wants to study either business or environmental engineering at university. She also plans to become fluent in Ojibway and Spanish.