Breaking Barriers and Building Futures: The Impact of Indigenous Academic Research

Excellent News! A Milestone in Indigenous Research and Education

I am beyond excited to share that the media release on the research I assisted with has been published in our local Sootoday News and is also officially available in the Sage Journals! You can access it here: https://journals.sagepub.com/.../10.../11771801241291242

This research is not just another academic paper—it is a living resource that will continue to support Indigenous students and academic institutions for years to come. It highlights the importance of culturally grounded supports, such as the Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre at Algoma University, and how these models can serve as blueprints for other institutions looking to uplift and empower Indigenous learners.

“The Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre at Algoma University is a model for other institutions looking to support students with Indigenous ancestry,” said Deanna Naveau-Heyde (Mattagami First Nation), a Research Assistant at Algoma University. “It offers a host of culturally affirming events including Pow Wows, sharing circles, moccasin-making, visiting Elders, and feasts.” – Sootoday article

 A Personal Achievement and the Power of Persistence

This moment is deeply personal for me. As an undergraduate degree holder, being published in research is a significant achievement—one that I never imagined when I first set foot in post-secondary education. My journey has been far from easy.

Navigating university with undiagnosed ADHD meant that education was often ten times harder for me than for my peers. Yet, I persevered and graduated with a four-year Bachelor of Arts (Hons.), specializing in Community Economic & Social Development. Along the way, I also dedicated three years to studying Anishinaabemowin, pursued education in Political Science, and completed my first year in Psychology.

This experience has taught me that adequate support systems are critical to the success of Indigenous students. The research we conducted sheds light on these needs and ensures that future generations will have better access to culturally appropriate academic supports.

 Why This Research Matters

Indigenous students continue to face systemic barriers in education. Research like this is essential to ensuring that institutions recognize and address these barriers, rather than perpetuate them. The findings serve as a guidepost for creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering learning environments—ones that embrace Indigenous knowledge, identity, and traditions as strengths rather than obstacles.

This achievement is not just for me, but for every Indigenous student who has struggled, persevered, and succeeded despite the odds.

We are here. We belong in academia. And we will continue to rise.

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