Indigenous Student Nurse Education Bursary 2021

2021 Recipient: Renee Williams

Renee Williams is completing her first year of LPN studies at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Williams Lake. She also completed her Grade 12 through the Dogwood program at TRU while being enrolled in the LPN program this year.  

In her application, Renee told BCNU that she was inspired to become a nurse when she helped take care of her grandfather who had Type 2 diabetes. “I helped him check his glucose levels and helped to administer his insulin at the age of twelve. That feeling and look of appreciation he would give me has always stuck with me; his big kind eyes and heartfelt smile,” she says.

Renee enjoys helping people and knowing that she is making a positive change in someone’s life. “It feels good to have knowledge of how to care for people in all walks of life," says the mom of five. "I hope to bring inspiration to others in attaining an education in health care."

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