Indigenous Student Nurse Education Bursary 2022

2022 Recipient: Candace Atwood

Candace Atwood has just completed her first year of LPN studies at The College of the Rockies in Cranbrook. In her application, Atwood shared that her dream was to become a nurse and to care for people. "I have always been a caregiver. It was like second nature to help someone in need."

Atwood is grateful for her family's support. "They taught me everything I know – especially my parents. I always admired how hard my mom worked to put food on the table and my dad for keeping the roof over our heads."

Atwood can't wait to graduate. "It will be an honour to represent the Métis nation and practice these nursing skills within the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa people."

The bursary award confirms Atwood's decision to pursue a nursing career. "My most significant achievement was receiving this fantastic award. It's a reminder that making your dreams a reality is possible," she says. "I have worked hard to get to this point in my journey and I'm excited to see what else is in store for me in the upcoming year!"

The Indigenous Student Nurse Education Bursary (ISNEB) is an initiative of BCNU's Indigenous Leadership Circle (ILC). The bursary reflects BCNU's ongoing support for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's 94 Calls to Action, particularly the call to increase the number of Indigenous professionals in health care. The annual bursary is open to Indigenous BCNU student members who are studying to become LPNs, RNs or RPNs, including those currently working as employed student nurses.

The ISNEB is inspired by Indigenous nurse leaders. Each year, ILC will dedicate an individual in whose name the bursary is being awarded. For 2022, the ILC is delighted to name Charlotte Edith Anderson Monture, the first Indigenous nurse in Canada.