2024 CJF-CBC Indigenous Journalism Fellow

My time with CBC Indigenous has been an experience I will never forget. It opened my eyes to the ongoing struggles of being an Indigenous journalist in Canada. After taking a few years off to focus on my family, I felt it was time to get back to doing what I am most passionate about; telling stories that bring awareness to Indigenous issues across Canada.

I had pitched a story on the evolution of Indian Day Schools and their lasting impacts on the community of Akwesasne in particular. I did not realize just how heavy it would be for not only the survivors but myself, as well. I am grateful to have had fellow Indigenous journalists to support me through this process of creating and finalizing a story that has been years in the making.

I take with me, from this experience, a more modern way of practicing journalism utilizing online platforms. The experience has also sparked an interest in pursuing podcasting. I look forward to working with several of the Indigenous journalists I have had the honor of working with throughout this fellowship.

This fellowship has encouraged me to get back to doing what I do best, no matter what life throws my way. I am determined to continue telling stories from an Indigenous perspective, covering issues across Canada that not many journalists are willing to cover.