Syllabics
At the First Nations University of Canada, our students are at the heart of everything we do. Each learner brings their own story, strength, and purpose — grounded in culture, community, and Indigenous ways of knowing.
Through our Student Spotlights series, we celebrate the voices and experiences of FNUniv students who are leading with heart, creating change in their communities, and inspiring others to walk their own paths. Each story reflects the spirit of We Are Indigenous — rooted in identity, connection, and empowerment.
Program: Indigenous Social Work, Year 3
Community: George Gordon First Nation
Expected Graduation: 2027
Words of advice: Embrace your culture and make the most of every support available to you. Take advantage of opportunities like volunteering and joining student groups — they help you build leadership skills, connect with the community, and give back while growing personally and professionally.
One word to describe FNUniv: Supportive.
Inspired by her late grandmother, a long-time Elder at the First Nations University of Canada, Audra chose to study Indigenous Social Work to reconnect with her language and culture. She says FNUniv has empowered her to step into leadership roles, build confidence, and find healing through cultural connection.
Audra values the supportive staff, student services, and holistic learning environment that define the FNUniv experience. Her time at Culture Camp at the Traditional Campus gave her the opportunity to connect with the land and culture alongside her cohort, providing both healing and connection — essential qualities for those entering the social work field.
Her goal is to work with youth in the criminal justice system, offering trauma-informed and culturally grounded healing and support.
Program: Indigenous Social Work, Year 3
Community: Peepeekisis First Nation
Expected Graduation: 2027
Words of advice: Recognize that pursuing an education is a powerful act of breaking cycles. Embrace your educational journey as an opportunity to redefine narratives and create new pathways for your family and community. Take the time to connect with your classmates and the Elders on campus—by building a strong support system, you’ll always have the guidance and encouragement you need to succeed.
One word to describe FNUniv: Empowering.
Breanna chose to study at FNUniv to become an Indigenous social worker, challenging Western perspectives while centering Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing. FNUniv has helped her grow personally, culturally, and academically — giving her access to ceremony, Elders, and teachings that have guided her through difficult times.
She says FNUniv helped her become a cycle breaker, being the first in her family to attend post-secondary education and reconnect herself and her children to their Indigenous ways of knowing. Breanna cherishes the connections, knowledge, and friendships she’s made along the way.
Her most memorable experience was Culture Camp — a cultural awakening that brought daily ceremonies, time on the land, and the honor of receiving her Indian name. Lifelong connections were made that week, and after the passing of a classmate soon after, those memories became even more meaningful.
Breanna’s goals include working in child welfare prevention, advocating for the best interests of children, and pursuing a master’s degree to deepen her expertise.
Program: Indigenous Business & Public Administration, Year 1
Community: Big River First Nation
Expected Graduation: 2029
Words of advice: My advice would be to take advantage of every opportunity FNUniv offers—whether it’s cultural events, land-based learning, or connecting with Elders, instructors, and other students. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek guidance, and fully immerse yourself in the community. The more you put into your experience, the more meaningful and impactful it becomes.
A phrase to describe FNUniv: A home away from home.
Alana chose to study at FNUniv because she wanted to learn in a space where Indigenous identities, cultures, and experiences are honoured. Being surrounded by other Indigenous students who share similar values, aspirations, and goals inspired her to pursue her education here and grounder her in a community that feels like home.
FNUniv has supported her growth academically, personally, and culturally. She’s experienced a variety of teaching styles — from classroom learning to cultural and land-based approaches — that helped her connect her studies to who she is, where she comes from, and the kind of person she aims to be in the future.
What Alana cherishes most is the people. The supportive staff, the friendships she’s built, and the shared cultural understandings create a sense of belong she hasn’t found anywhere else.
One of her most impactful experiences has been creating content and visual storytelling for FNUniv. Designing promotional materials, producing social media content and participating in university events have strengthened her confidence and shaped her professional path. These opportunities helped her see the power of creativity, representation, and community — all guiding her journey in marketing.
After graduation, Alana hopes to work in marketing, using her skills in design, communication, and content creation to uplift Indigenous initiatives and organizations. Her goal is to contribute to positive representation and help Indigenous-led communities share their stories in meaningful ways.
Program: Indigenous Business & Public Administration, Year 5
Community: Muscowpetung First Nation
Expected Graduation: 2026
Words of advice: Your educational journey will be tough and hard, no one said it was going to be easy, however if you dedicate yourself to your studies you will be successful here, our ancestors are looking at us proud!
A phrase to describe FNUniv: (isi) We are FNUniv!
Nathaniel chose to study at FNUniv to follow in the footsteps of his parents, both FNUniv graduates, and to deepen his involvement in his Indigenous community. Majoring in accounting, he wanted to grow as a student leader while being surrounded by people who share similar values, experiences, and cultural roots.
FNUniv has helped him grow culturally, academically, and personally. Becoming a student here strengthened his connection to ceremony — giving him the honour of both attending and hosting ceremonies for the FNUniv community. He credits the people he’s met along the way for shaping him into the strong leader and dedicated student he is today. Academically, FNUniv pushed him to excel, turning him into someone who is constantly studying, working, and giving back through the Students’ Association.
One of Nathaniel’s most meaningful experiences has been serving as the Regina Campus President for the FNUniv Students’ Association. Representing the student body, voicing concerns, and navigating the challenges and responsibilities of Indigenous leadership have been defining moments in his educational journey.
Nathaniel’s goals include entering the Indigenous CPA program, furthering his military career, and taking time to travel the world. He hopes to continue leading, learning, and uplifting his communities wherever his path takes him.
More Student Spotlights coming soon — highlighting the incredible journeys, resilience, and accomplishments of FNUniv students across all campuses.
Are you an FNUniv student interested in being featured? We’d love to hear from you!
Submit your story and photo for consideration through our Student Spotlight Submission Form or email comm@firstnationsuniversity.ca.
For campus locations, maps and hours of operation, please visit our contact us page.
(the good path through life)
(the good path through life)