Student Bursary Supports Indigenous Youth in Pursuing Education

Education provides a path to opportunities, economic independence, and a brighter future, ultimately supporting reconciliation and inspiring the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

Yet, for many Indigenous youth living in remote or rural areas, access to education beyond elementary school can be difficult, sometimes impossible.

Recognizing the importance of helping Indigenous students continue learning and work towards graduation, the Diocese of Thunder Bay launched the St. Kateri Tekakwitha Student Bursary to support Indigenous youth facing barriers to education. For those who have received it, the bursary has already been life-changing, and its impact will only grow as more students benefit from this support.

Thanks to funding from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF), the bursary program will continue to fund the education of four Indigenous students this year – three students at Catholic high schools in Thunder Bay and one student attending Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School.

The St. Kateri Tekakwitha Student Bursary focuses on Indigenous students who are passionate about sharing Indigenous culture, especially those whose values align with Indigenous Catholic teachings and the Seven Grandfather Teachings. This year, the application process has been updated to allow students planning to attend college, university, or a trades program to apply in advance.

By helping Indigenous youth pursue their education, the Diocese of Thunder Bay is supporting future leaders who will bring their knowledge and skills back to their communities, creating lasting change and encouraging cultural pride and confidence.

Diocese of Thunder Bay