Q:  What does it mean for you to win this scholarship?

Winning the Loran Scholarship is a tremendous honour and deeply meaningful to me as an Indigenous student. It validates the years of dedication I’ve put into my community, education, and personal growth, especially while facing challenges like being one of the few Indigenous students at my school. It’s also a recognition of the importance of service, character, and leadership values I strive to live by every day. This scholarship gives me confidence that the work I’ve done matters and inspires me to keep pushing forward for my community.

Q:  How might this scholarship change your undergraduate experience? 

The Loran Scholarship will open doors that I never thought possible. It will relieve the financial pressures that many Indigenous students, including myself, face and allow me to focus entirely on my education, leadership, and service without having to juggle multiple part-time jobs. More than just funding, the mentorship, summer experiences, and support network of other Loran Scholars will challenge me to grow and help me discover new ways to lead and serve others. I’m especially excited to be part of a community that shares my commitment to making a difference.

Q:  What do you envision yourself doing after you graduate? How do you plan to continue to be of service in your community? 

After graduating, I hope to work in the healthcare field to help improve services in northern communities in Canada. I plan to continue mentoring Indigenous youth and developing programs that empower and support future generations.

Q:  What lessons did you take away from your Shad experience? Were any of them helpful through the Loran selection process? 

Shad taught me how powerful it is to embrace uncertainty, collaborate with others who think differently, and lead with empathy. I learned to speak up, trust my instincts, and lean into challenges, even when I felt intimidated. These lessons were incredibly helpful throughout the Loran selection process, especially during interviews where I had to reflect deeply on who I am and what matters to me. Shad helped me find my voice and showed me that leadership doesn’t always look the same— it can be quiet, creative, or rooted in service.

Q:  What advice do you have for those about to enter the Shad 2025 program? 

Go in with an open heart and mind. Don’t be afraid to be yourself or to try something new, even if it scares you. Some of the most meaningful moments will come from unexpected challenges and unlikely friendships. Be curious, be kind, and take it all in—you’ll leave with more than just knowledge. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of who you are and what kind of change you want to make in the world.

Want to meet the other 2025 Loran Scholars? Read their stories