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 4
Community: James Smith First Nation
Expected Graduation: 2026
Words of advice: First year is the hardest, but once you get that done, build a study group and work on your study techniques. You’re worth it and you deserve it.
A phrase to describe FNUniv: miyo-pimâtisiwin (good life)
Michelle chose to study at FNUniv in search of something different for herself and her children — a place rooted in kinship, connection, and healing. Through her time at FNUniv, she’s been able to address childhood trauma, learn balance through the teachings of the medicine wheel, and reconnect with her culture, family, and community. These teachings continue to guide her personally, professionally, and academically.
FNUniv’s supportive environment — including relationships with professors, students, and staff — helped Michelle value her lived experience and grow into a compassionate helper in the field of social work. One pivotal moment came when campus support and access to affordable daycare made it possible for her to return to her studies, allowing both her and her daughter to thrive.
Looking ahead, Michelle plans to relocate to Saskatoon to be closer to family and her granddaughter, work in the community, and eventually return to pursue her master’s degree.
Program: Indigenous Communication & Fine Arts, Year 2
Community: Starblanket Cree Nation
Expected Graduation: 2028
Words of advice: Embrace the experience, not just the outcome.
A word to describe FNUniv: Communal
Chasity chose to study at FNUniv to deepen her connection to her Cree heritage and explore the power of creativity as a path to healing. Immersed in an environment rooted in community, culture, and kinship, she has been able to reconnect with traditional artistic practices while expanding her skills in contemporary art. Experiences like participating in a buffalo harvest transformed the classroom into a space of partnership, laughter, and learning — a glimpse into the ways of her ancestors that continues to inspire her work.
FNUniv’s supportive community — including instructors, peers, and staff — has helped Chasity embrace her identity as a Cree woman and recognize the strength of her lived experiences. Surrounded by people who share similar backgrounds, she has found a place to heal, create, and grow, guided by the values of family, community, and cultural knowledge. Her mother, Denni Starr, and other family members who pursued education and personal growth at FNUniv serve as her greatest inspiration, shaping both her artistic journey and her commitment to Indigenous traditions.
Looking ahead, Chasity hopes to teach Indigenous art across communities, sharing creative practices with children, youth, and elders. She aims to foster spaces for self-expression, healing, and cultural reconnection, strengthening respect for Indigenous knowledge and supporting community well-being through the transformative power of art.
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)