Our Stories

Hi! My name is Sara Daigle-Stevens and my First Nation’s names are Yamu-Akith-Nuhu (spelled phonetically and means Smoking Star) and Kwik-Ga (which means Nobel Eagle Woman). I have two first nations’ names because one is maternal and the other paternal (go figure, eh?). I am part Kootenay (maternal), Kwaguilt (paternal), Haida Gwaii (paternal), French (paternal), English (maternal) and Hawaiian (paternal). I am thankful to the Snuneymuxw Nation for allowing me to live, love, learn and laugh on their territory. I have a number of passions, and one of them being learning about my culture and history. I love and I am filled with so much gratitude that our university has such a strong cultural background. I am grateful for this university for the willingness to integrate indigenous principals, it is so cutting edge, and this is something we should be proud of as students and faculty.

I am of Cree ancestry and from Saskatchewan. I am in the Bachelor of Arts in First Nations Studies program and have received a Social Work Diploma from Vancouver Island University. I will be continuing my studies and have applied to the Masters in Community Planning Program. I am a father of two boys and enjoy spending time outdoors. My journey at the beginning was challenging as I was switching from a trades program to an academic program. What helped me during this time was the support that I received. Through education, I have been able to find my identity.

I was born and raised in Alert Bay, B.C. I come from the Namgis First Nations, which is a tribe within the Kwakwaka'wakw First Nations territory. I am in the Recreation and Sport Management diploma program and will continue my education to achieve a Bachelor of Tourism Management, majoring in Recreation. I would like to pursue a minor in First Nations studies. My goal as a Community Cousin is to provide Aboriginal students on campus with guidance and support. It is important to create a welcoming atmosphere for those who are still transitioning and bridging into University.

I am of Dene / Kwak-kwak-wka descent. I am in the Bachelor of Arts in First Nations Studies program and have been involved in 'Su'luqw'a' since 2015. The program provides me with a supportive community I've never experienced before.

I am a 2nd year Child and Youth Care student. I am from Esketemc First Nation in the Secwepemc Territory; as well as from the Statlimc Territory. I have been a member of the 'Su'luqw'a' Community Cousins Mentorship Program since 2015, as well as being an advocate for my community here at Vancouver Island University. I find my peace in community involvement and spending time with my extended and immediate family. My time at VIU has helped me to recognize the importance of community and my personal abilities for self-enhancement. If I was able to give words of advice to my first year self, I would remind myself that life is a journey worth making mistakes in. Through our mistakes we are able to learn the most valuable lessons of all.