Northern graduates celebrated at North West College

May 31, 2018 | 1:00 PM

Accomplishment, pride, hard work and determination were recognized at the 2018 North West College graduation ceremony in Meadow Lake.

Students across northern Saskatchewan graduated May 30, completing trades programs, adult basic education, and a Bachelor of Education program offered through the University of Regina.

Keynote speaker Dakota Hebert, who was born and attended school in Meadow Lake, said she was proud of the students for their hard work. In 2012 she became the first Indigenous student to enroll in Globe Theatre’s conservatory program. Despite her doubts and fears, she said she found her stride and stuck with it. The actress and comedian said she knew she wanted to perform from a young age, but said it was her post-secondary training which truly opened doors for her.

“I’ve had the pleasure and been fortunate enough to have travelled across this big country, through the States, and even went to China,” Hebert said. “All these opportunities came to me because of post-secondary. Being educated will open all these doors for you.”

Fiona Kytwayhat, a student enrolled in the professional cooking program, previously completed the Basic Readiness program as well as Grades 10 and 12 Adult Basic Education through NWC. She said her journey wasn’t always easy, but her instructors, classmates, family and friends inspired her to keep going.

“I’m so thankful that I stayed with it,” Kytwayhat said with a tear in her eye. “I’m proud of myself for completing this important goal in my life, and by doing so I hope that I have provided a good role model for my children. I want them to know that anything is possible.”

Carla Gear, who just completed the four-year Bachelor of Education program through the University of Regina, said having the program offered locally changed her life.

“Had NWC not offered the program, I wouldn’t have been able to pursue my dream of being a teacher,” Gear said.

NWC Board Member Wayne Pike said graduation is an exciting time.

“It is both a beginning, and an ending,” he said. “I know the [students] will take the lessons learned at the college into the world and make a meaningful difference.”

 

 

 

 

 

kathy.gallant@jpbg.ca

On Twitter @ReporterKath