Hailing from Goose Bay, N.L., and proudly representing the NunatuKavut community, Adam Barney is a high-achieving student currently in his second year of a three-year program at the Marine Institute in St. John’s, N.L. Having graduated from high school with honours, he combines his dedication to academics with a passion for the outdoors. Adam enjoys fishing, camping, golfing and playing basketball, among other activities. He recently showcased his basketball skills at the North American Indigenous Games in Nova Scotia, and he is a brown belt in judo with a steadfast goal of achieving a black belt.
Hailing from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, Isaac Grass is a dedicated fourth-year student at the University of Windsor. As a military child who has experienced life across the nation, Isaac’s adaptability and determination have been vital in his pursuit of higher education. He actively contributes to non-profit organizations like Experiences Canada and The Students Commission of Canada. With a dual major in criminology and political science, Isaac envisions a future in criminal justice or community relations, where he can serve the public and create positive change in society. Isaac expresses heartfelt gratitude to Indspire and APTN for their invaluable support, which has transformed his dreams into achievable goals.
A proud member of the Red River Métis Nation, Gracie Grift is a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Winnipeg, pursuing an honours bachelor of science with a major in biology and a minor in English. Her academic journey includes significant contributions to respiratory physiology, highlighted by the fact that she recently received a second Undergraduate Student Research Award from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. Dedicated to community service and the promotion of Indigenous excellence in academia, Gracie has held leadership roles at the University of Winnipeg, such as president of the Indigenous Students’ Association and vice-president of the Canadian Indigenous Science and Engineering Society. She also generously volunteers her time as a science and coding instructor at the Wii Chiiwaakanak Learning Centre.
Dylan MacLennan, a proud Mi’kmaw from Lennox Island First Nation, is a professional engineer and the founder of L’nu Energy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in sustainable design engineering from the University of Prince Edward Island and is passionate about renewable energy. His expertise spans solar, wind, battery storage, hydrogen and gas turbines, and he has significant experience working with the Wind Energy Institute of Canada and the Summerside Sunbank Project. Dylan is currently completing a PhD at UPEI’s School of Climate Change and Adaptation, where his research focuses on how First Nations might achieve net-zero greenhouse gas targets. He is also working towards being registered with Natural Resources Canada as an energy advisor. Dylan actively engages with youth through the Netukulimk Education Program, where he promotes renewable energy and STEM careers while being guided by the seven generations principle. In his free time, he enjoys being out in nature with his young family and taking on hobbies as varied as golfing, fishing, hunting, hiking, gardening and outdoor construction.
Hailing from Corner Brook, N.L., Cameron Pittman is currently pursuing a degree in theology at Vanguard College in Edmonton, Alta. Cameron’s life has been defined by his love for the outdoors, sports, hunting, fishing, volunteering, coaching alongside his father, and being actively involved with his church. What drives Cameron most is his profound desire to be a part of someone’s story. Whether it’s being a supportive friend, coaching and mentoring kids, or assisting neighbours in need, he finds his purpose in having a positive impact on others’ lives. Rooted in his family’s Christian faith and their tradition of lending others a helping hand, Cameron aims to become a pastor for the next generation, specializing in an approach geared towards teenagers and children. He firmly believes that the youth need guidance, and this aligns perfectly with his passion. Completing his theology degree is the first step towards achieving his goal of becoming a pastor dedicated to guiding the young leaders of tomorrow.
Born and raised in the tight-knit community of Walpole Island First Nation, Bobbi Whiteye is a dedicated advocate for mental health and addictions support. Currently in the final stages of her studies in mental health and addictions, Bobbi has a deep desire to uplift her community in everything she does. Bobbi’s educational pursuit isn’t just about personal growth; it’s a commitment to equipping herself with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in her community who are struggling. Beyond her academic endeavours, Bobbi is an active member of her home community, where she strives to serve as a positive role model for families and individuals alike. Her dedication extends not only to her professional life, but also to her personal life as she makes every effort to be a beacon of hope and support for her own family.