I'm from the Secwepemc (Shuswap) Nation and live in Chase, BC. I currently work in the mining Industry as the Manager, Indigenous Relations with New Gold. I work with various Indigenous communities and manage the development of corporate strategy and programs related to Indigenous programming.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

SFU has a reputation of incorporating Indigenous culture and global views into the curriculum.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESEARCH EXPERIENCE.

It is incredibly intense at times when assignments are due. However, it is also extremely motivating when it comes to applying what I learn into real-time work and personal situations.  

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

I enjoy the global perspective and appreciate when we are encouraged to think outside the box.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I received the Michelle Pockey Leadership Award last year at the Women in Business Awards event in Vancouver. The financial support, as well as the network of women I met at the Women in Business Awards reception, was incredibly helpful. It lessened the stress about how I was going to pay for the semester's tuition, and I was able to focus on my studies.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM?

It is incredibly useful to what I want to accomplish. I appreciate how the program incorporates Indigenous culture and history into the course content.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR PROSPECTIVE GRADUATE STUDENTS?

It will be challenging at times — I can guarantee it. Keep going; network as much as you can to explore different ideas and gain additional support as required along the way.

Contact Martha: mma184@sfu.ca