I’m currently in my fourth year of the Indigenous Education program at the First Nations University of Canada, where I’m studying to become an elementary school teacher. As a Cree woman, reconnecting with my culture has been a powerful and empowering part of my journey. I chose this program because I believe in the importance of representation, and I hope to inspire Indigenous students by showing them that their identities, languages, and cultures belong in our schools and classrooms.
My experience in this program has been transformative. It has deepened my understanding of Indigenous histories, languages, worldviews, and teaching philosophies, while also reaffirming the importance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge into education. As I approach the end of my degree, I feel excited and hopeful about bringing these teachings into my future classrooms. I believe that when we incorporate diverse Indigenous perspectives into our teaching, we create spaces where all students can feel seen, valued, and empowered. As educators, we have a meaningful role to play in reconciliation, and I’m committed to walking that path with heart, humility, and purpose.