Q: Tell me about yourself! Where and what did you study? What do you like to do for fun?

A: Hello! My name is Sarah Tate and I am a member of the Georgian Bay Métis Community. I am from Penetanguishene and currently live in Midland. I went to Wilfrid Laurier University for my Honours Bachelor of Arts in English and History. I then went on to teacher’s college and completed my Bachelor of Education at St. Francis Xavier University. In my free time I enjoy hiking with my partner and our dog, Louis. I also enjoy camping, baking, beading and reading!

 

Q: Before working at the MNO, you were a grade school teacher. How do you reflect on that time of your life?

A: Working in the K-12 education system was really rewarding. I enjoyed getting to know each and every student and forming connections. It is an enriching job because it allows you to see students grow socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically! I really enjoyed working with the curriculum and trying to incorporate Métis culture into my classroom.

 

Q: How did your work as a teacher prepare you for the work you now do as an Education and Partnership Advisor?

A: My work as a teacher really helped prepare me for the work I do now. Not only am I familiar with the many obstacles that Indigenous students face in the education system, but it also let me see things from an instructor’s perspective. This perspective helps me better understand the gaps in support that need to be addressed.

 

Q: As an Education and Partnership Advisor, you work closely with MNO Infinite Reach Facilitators across many schools. What do you believe are the benefits of the Infinite Reach program for post-secondary Métis students?

A: I just wish the Infinite Reach program had been there when I was attending school! The Infinite Reach program is a wonderful opportunity to get connected to the community. It allows you to form connections with other upper-year post-secondary Métis students, who might be going through similar experiences as you. It is a great chance to develop your leadership skills in a safe environment and provides you with plenty of networking opportunities. The relationships and community built through Infinite Reach—connecting with Métis friends and peers—are key to maintaining your culture throughout life’s journey!

 

Q: What appeals to you or is rewarding about your work as an Education and Partnership Advisor?

A: One of my favourite parts of the job is the opportunity to connect with and support Infinite Reach Facilitators. The students are always amazing to work with and they make me feel proud to be a Métis woman every time I see them! It is a really impactful when you are able to see these students share their culture. I also really enjoy the opportunity to work with different post-secondary schools across Ontario. Having relationships with so many different schools is incredibly eye-opening. Getting to do school visits and seeing Métis representation at different Indigenous Student Centers is also really fun!

 

Q: How has your Métis background had an impact on your life and how you think of yourself?

A: It wasn’t always easy for me to embrace my Métis background, especially in grade school. But when I started to mature, I realized the importance that culture holds in my life. It changes how I view the world, my community, and myself. I really surrounded myself with the Métis community, and that has provided me with opportunities that I am incredibly thankful for. I really appreciate my ancestors and all that they have gone through, so I can be where I am today, living as a proud member of the MNO.

 

Q: What advice would you offer to a younger version of yourself or younger students currently battling through adversity?

A: The advice I would offer to a younger version of myself, or other younger students currently battling through adversity, would be to reach out for help. Being Métis means always having a community that supports you and values you. If you are struggling or facing obstacles reach out for help because it is always there. I wish I was more active in my Métis community and the MNO when I was younger because there are so many supports and people who are there to help. I would also tell younger students to embrace every aspect of yourself, especially your Métis culture. Most of the values and the way I live my life today can be connected back to my Métis heritage. Overall, stand proud to be Métis and always reach out for help!

 Please note that some of the above answers have been edited for brevity and readability.