For Métis youth Natalie LaPrise, spending a month away from home at York University in Toronto was more than an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). It was a chance to discover what she was capable of.

Through the support of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) Government, Natalie participated in Shad Canada 2026, a month-long educational experience that brings together high school students from across Canada to explore STEAM, entrepreneurship, leadership and personal development during the summer.

Before experiencing Shad, Natalie had no idea what she wanted to do after graduating high school. Like many young people, she had interests and ambitions but was still discovering where they might lead.

“Before attending Shad, I wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to take after graduation,” Natalie wrote in a letter of thanks to MN–S. “This experience gave me the opportunity to explore new interests and discover areas that I may want to pursue in the future, while also helping me recognize some things that I don’t.”