Master’s student in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health
I am a Red River Métis from Treaty One in Winnipeg, and I chose to study at McGill to get out of my comfort zone. I also wanted to build skills to bring back home to my community and have a chance to learn from all kinds of people.
The things that stand out the most about my McGill experience are the friends I have made along the way and the teachings I have gained that really solidified what I want for my future.
I decided to get involved with campus groups because I wanted to help create a safer space for Indigenous students at McGill. I wanted Indigenous students to feel like they can thrive here – to not only feel like they are fighting to get in the door or have a seat at the table, but to feel that they can take over and lead the discussion in a good way.
I have worked with many Indigenous science outreach groups such as Pathway to Graduate Studies, Eagle Spirit Science Futures camp, IMPRESS, Pick your path, and Riparia. I am also the MSc Representative for the School of Population and Global Health EDI-AR Committee, the Indigenous Health Working Group, and Indigenous Advisory Council Steering Committee.
I was one of the co-creators of a groundbreaking new course at the School of Population and Global Health entitled “Indigenous World Views in Health Delivery and Research at McGill”, which offers an introduction to Indigenous worldviews, data governance and sovereignty, and ethical research practices. The course was a first among Canadian universities because of the key role that Indigenous students played in designing the curriculum.
Overall, McGill has helped me build my sense of self and figure out how I can make a difference through my career. I learned that I will always be happiest and be able to contribute most to my community when I am also giving back to it.