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graduate’s journey is a testament to resilience, culture, and purpose, showing how Indigenous knowledge and community continue to shape meaningful contributions far beyond the classroom.
Through our Alumni Spotlight series, we highlight FNUniv graduates who are leading with heart, inspiring change, and uplifting communities. Each story reflects the spirit of We are Indigenous — celebrating identity, heritage, and the impact of Indigenous-led learning.
Program: Indigenous Social Work
Community: Wolseley, SK
Graduation Year: 2024
Words of advice: It’s ok to know what you don’t know — ask questions, think critically, challenge yourself and your biases. Support one another and take care of yourself. You can succeed. You are deserving of your education. Nobody can take that away from you.
One phrase to describe FNUniv: We are all connected.
Cassidy chose First Nations University of Canada because of its strong foundation in Indigenous epistemology and its commitment to community-centred learning. She began her educational journey with the goal of advocating for the wellbeing and safety of children and youth, while also working through her own questions about belonging in higher education.
Throughout her time at FNUniv, Cassidy was encouraged to think critically, challenge her own assumptions, and build meaningful relationships with her classmates, community, Knowledge Keepers, and Elders. She credits these experiences with shaping her philosophy as a social worker—one grounded in relationality, accountability, and the belief that creating positive change begins with personal responsibility.
One of Cassidy’s most memorable experiences was completing her practicum at Chief Payepot School, where the school community organized a bake sale to help pay her outstanding tuition. The kindness and generosity shown to her during that time left a lasting impression and reinforced the importance of community care. Today, Cassidy works as a clinical social worker with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, supporting youth experiencing mental health challenges while carrying forward the teachings and relationships that shaped her journey at FNUniv.
Program: Indigenous Social Work
Community: Metis Nation of Saskatchewan
Graduation Year: 2023
Words of advice: I encourage you to keep showing up and to remain forever teachable. As our late Elder Gilbert Kewistep so beautifully shared, ‘Respect is paramount.’ When we carry that respect with us, we honor not only ourselves but the generations who walked before us.
One word to describe FNUniv: Resilient.
Nicole’s journey to First Nations University of Canada began unexpectedly. After applying to the University of Regina’s Social Work program, she was instead accepted into the pre-qualifying program at FNUniv. Entering a space where she felt disconnected from her culture, she admits she was nervous and unsure of what to expect. Rather than letting that fear hold her back, Nicole chose to lean into the experience—an approach that would ultimately transform her life.
Through her studies, Nicole discovered more than academic knowledge. She deepened her understanding of her Indigenous heritage while learning more about herself as a woman, a mother, and a person in recovery. She describes FNUniv as a sacred space where community, culture, and belonging helped replace uncertainty with confidence and purpose. Being named Valedictorian was a milestone she views not only as a personal achievement, but as an honour shared with her family, ancestors, and Nation.
Nicole’s journey also included an educational field experience in Brazil, where she learned alongside Indigenous communities whose traditional ways of knowing further strengthened her commitment to her own culture. Today, she works with the Ministry of Social Services in Prince Albert, supporting youth through empathy, compassion, and the strength of her own lived experience.
More Alumni Spotlights coming soon — showcasing the stories, achievements, and leaders of FNUniv graduates across the country.
Share your Story!
Are you an FNUniv alum ready to be featured? We’d love to hear from you!
Submit your story and photo through our Alumni Spotlight Submission Form, or email alumni@firstnationsuniversity.ca for more information.
Calling All FNUniv Alumni!
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(the good path through life)
(the good path through life)