Shelby Henry, Year 2
2nd Year On-Campus NITEP field centre
Nation: Anishnabe from the Chippewa of the Thames First Nations in Ontario
Home: Currently residing in Vancouver, BC
What inspired you to go into teaching?
My main inspiration to study education comes from our Mothers and Fathers, Grandmothers and Grandfathers and Ancestors who attended Residential Schools. This trauma our relatives faced through these institutions has touched my heart and will, to be part of the work already in progress to Indigenize our education and protect our children and culture.
What does NITEP mean to you?
I am grateful to be a guest here on the beautiful territory of the Musqueum People. The campus and program value the importance of having a community and a gathering place to learn, study and administer programs which are fun and engaging. I love meeting other First Nations students that are from all different areas and Nations.
How do you believe NITEP will help you achieve your education goals?
When I graduate, I would like to work and inspire all students of any background to be inspired and achieve success and value education including the importance of Indigenous worldviews and the importance of our history. My ultimate goal/dream would be to learn the Ojibwe language and bring it into the classroom. NITEP can get me closer this dream.