Q: Hi Mina, tell me about yourself! What do you like to do for fun in your spare time?
A: I am a mature student entering my fourth year of the Honours Bachelor of Social Work Program at Lakehead University with a minor in Indigenous Learning. Before the Social Work Program, I was enrolled in Lakehead’s Indigenous Transition Year Program. In my spare time, I enjoy reading fantasy and historical fiction novels, spending time outdoors by the lake, and hiking with my friends and our dogs.
Q: Tell me more about the importance of community in your life. How have you found community at Lakehead University?
A: I think community is especially important for all students entering the world of post-secondary, as it can be very intimidating. It’s helpful to be supported by peers who have already begun their academic journey, as well as peers who are starting the journey with you. Lakehead is a diverse and inclusive school that promotes community for everyone, whether through events, connections with professors, or joining a club. My role as an Infinite Reach Facilitator allowed me to build relationships with other facilitators, students, and the Indigenous Student Centre. I was also introduced to other welcoming spaces and clubs, such as the Indigenous Resource Centre and the Indigenous Student Association.
Q: What inspired you to pursue social work? How did you first discover this was a field you wanted to enter?
A: It was a long road to realize that social work was the career for me. I was originally interested in nursing, but quickly figured out it wasn’t something I would enjoy in the long run. I was inspired to join a “helping field” due to the number of people my age struggling with addiction and mental health.
Q: Why is social work so important?
A: Social work is important because of the diversity of the role. As a registered social worker, you can work in legal systems, social services, hospitals, and child welfare. You can be involved in research, clinical practice, or psychotherapy. There is so much more to the career than what people may think. Another critical part of social work is advocating for those who may not be able to advocate for themselves.
Q: You’re currently an MNO Infinite Reach Facilitator. How did you first learn about the Infinite Reach Student Solidarity Network, and what made you want to register for it?
A: I learned about the role from a past facilitator who encouraged me to register. I wanted to register to learn more about Métis history and to make connections with other students on campus.
Q: What are the benefits of Infinite Reach for post-secondary Métis students? What is unique about what it offers students? How has it helped you?
A: Infinite reach is unique because it blends mentorship and knowledge. For Métis students, it’s a way to connect and learn from other Métis peers. I learned so much from the people I met through this role, and I wouldn’t have been as successful as I was without them.
Q: What are you most proud of in your time as an Infinite Reach Facilitator thus far?
A: I am proud of my events! They were fun to host, and I think everyone who came out to join had a good time. Fall harvest was my favourite because it was outdoors, there was lots of food, and I think the other facilitators and I were able to educate people about Métis history.
Q: How has your Métis background had an impact on your life and how you think of yourself?
A: I am very grateful for my grandfather, who developed an entire family tree book that goes back to the 1600s. I know who I am and where I am from because of him, which makes me proud of myself and my lineage.
Q: What advice would you offer to a younger version of yourself or students currently battling through adversity?
A: To my younger self, students, or anyone facing adversity, never be scared to reach out for help. As a student, there are resources available; don’t feel scared or embarrassed to use them. As students, we spend so much time in class, working on assignments, working jobs, and if you’re not in your home community, it can feel very isolating. So, I encourage students to find a campus community for support.