The result of months of work and multiple design iterations, the new OCAP® logo emphasizes the First Nations roots of FNIGC’s work by utilizing a drum motif to represent equality and communication, as well as signifying the heartbeat of Mother Earth.    

The logo was launched at a special gathering hosted by FNIGC during the Assembly of First Nations 44th Annual General Assembly in Halifax, Nova Scotia, steps away from the location where OCAP® was first established in 1998.

The event, which was attended by members of the National Steering Committee who are credited with coining the term “OCAP®,” featured local Mik’maw drumming group the Sunrise Scouts, a performance by Mi’kmaw fiddler Morgan Toney, a local jingle dress dancer, and keynote speakers including FNIGC CEO Jonathan Plante. 

FNIGC’s celebration of OCAP®’s 25th anniversary, which kicked off in January 2023, also featured the launch of the revised and reimagined The Fundamentals of OCAP® online course.   

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FNIGC will grant up to four $2,500 bursaries to First Nations students enrolled in a post-secondary institution in either health, social science, or applied science fields, or studying issues related to helping First Nations achieve data sovereignty. A focus in one or more of the following fields is considered an asset:

• Epidemiology,
• Population health,
• Biostatistics,
• Statistics,
• Information Management,
• Information Technology,
• Economics,
• Indigenous studies,
• Interdisciplinary studies,
• Environmental studies/science, or
• Computer science.

The deadline for applications is November 4, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. EDT.

Established in 2011, FNIGC’s National Student Bursary is awarded annually to qualifying First Nations post-secondary students. In addition to the $2,500 bursaries each recipient also receives free registration (a $250 value) to The Fundamentals of OCAP®, FNIGC’s online training course that explores the First Nations principles of ownership, control, access, and possession as they relate to data sovereignty, information governance, and ethical research.

“Since FNIGC was founded, the National Student Bursary has been a cornerstone of our commitment to supporting First Nations at the grassroots level” said Leona Star, Chairperson of FNIGC’s Board of Directors. “By providing financial assistance to First Nations students in their post-secondary education journey we hope to foster the outstanding work they are doing in their respective fields and inspire the future generation of innovators and thought-leaders.”

The FNIGC bursary program has awarded more than $55,000 to 27 First Nations post-secondary students across Canada over the course of its 12-year history. To learn more about FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program including past winners and details on how to apply, visit FNIGC.ca.   

For more information on the bursary application process, contact Kristine Neglia, Senior Manager, Education and Training at bursary@fnigc.ca.

A First Nations non-profit organization operating with a special mandate from the Assembly of First Nations, FNIGC envisions that every First Nation will achieve data sovereignty in alignment with its distinct world view.

FNIGC serves the information, research, training, and capacity needs of First Nations communities through its unique data-gathering initiatives, including the First Nations Regional Health Survey, the First Nations Regional Early Childhood, Education, and Employment Survey, and the First Nations Labour and Employment Development survey. FNIGC is committed to improving the health and well-being of First Nations people living and raising their families across the country through the assertion of data sovereignty.

For more information on FNIGC, visit FNIGC.ca or contact Brad Mackay, Manager, Communications, at bmackay@fnigc.ca.

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Established in 2011, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded each year to exceptional First Nations students enrolled in college or university studying in fields related to the advancement of First Nations data sovereignty. This year, FNIGC received a record 137 applicants from nine provinces. Recipients are chosen following a review of applications by a committee established by the FNIGC Board of Directors.

“We are glad to be able to provide these bursaries each year to outstanding First Nations students and help them along the path to completing their studies,” FNIGC’s Chairperson, Leona Star, said “When we assist First Nations students in achieving their goals, we’re supporting the next generation of First Nations professionals and strengthening our communities.”

2021 Bursary Winners

Courtney Defriend

Courtney Defriend (Ti’yuqtunat) is Coast Salish from Stz’uminus First Nation on Vancouver Island and is also of European descent. Courtney lives on Snuneymuxw territory with her young daughter, husband, and three pets. With a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care and a Master of Arts in Leadership, Courtney applies a trauma-informed and systemic lens to her doctoral studies, which focuses on accessibility of health services for First Nations people. Courtney started her career in services with Indigenous children and families. After 13 years, she moved into working in community based health services with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). Her work in mental health alongside Vancouver Island First Nations communities has led her to her current work with the provincial research team within the FNHA. In addition to her work and school interests, Courtney is a published author and above all, enjoys family time. Follow Courtney’s journey:

LinkedIn: Courtney Defriend

Instagram: @courtney.defriend

Tasha Shields

Tasha Shields lives in St. Thomas, Ontario, and is of First Nations (Oneida of the Thames) and European ancestry. Tasha completed her Bachelor of Arts in Community Health and a post-graduate certificate in Workplace Wellness and Health Promotion before entering the workforce. After working as a policy analyst at a provincial Indigenous organization, she returned to school, earning a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) in 2013. Since completing her MPH she has worked on several complex Indigenous health research projects, inspiring her to work towards her next educational goal. She is now pursuing a doctoral degree in Public Health at the University of Waterloo. Tasha is passionate about supporting Indigenous businesses and artists. Follow Tasha’s journey:

LinkedIn: Tasha Shields

Instagram: @tashamarieshields

Keith Wood Brooks

Keith Wood Brooks is Cree from God’s Lake Narrows, Manitoba. Currently he is finishing his Honour’s degree in economics, specializing in econometrics at the University of Manitoba and plans on doing his Master’s in Economics in fall 2022. He was inspired to study economics as a way to better understand the economic gap between First Nations and Canadians, and he plans to one day work in economic development. Growing up in an isolated First Nations community made him think deeply about why economic inequality exists and why it persists today, especially for remote communities like his. Besides school, his time is mostly spent with his lovely eight-month-old daughter, working, and being active. He works out at the gym between three to six days a week depending on how busy he is.

Latiya Northwest

Latiya Northwest is a nehiyaw iskwew (Cree woman) from Samson Cree Nation, Alberta. She is currently working towards a combined Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Conservation Sciences and Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies program at the University of Alberta. While attending university, she sat on her community’s Nipîy (water) Committee that manages their own water affairs, as well as the Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Committee at the university for the 2021–­­2022 year. While attending school, she works as a Plains Cree language teaching assistant for an introductory class at the university.

Since it was established more than a decade ago, FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program has awarded more than $53,000 to 27 First Nations post-secondary students across Canada. To learn more about FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program go here.

For more information on the bursary application process, contact Kristine Neglia, Manager, Education and Training, at bursary@fnigc.ca

For more information about FNIGC, visit FNIGC.ca or contact Brad Mackay, Manager, Communications, at communications@fnigc.ca.

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Established in 2011, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded each year to exceptional First Nations students enrolled in college or university studying in fields related to the advancement of First Nations data sovereignty. Recipients are chosen following a review of applications by a committee established by the FNIGC Board of Directors.

The FNIGC’s Chairperson, Leona Star, shared her thoughts on the value of the annual bursary program saying, “We are thankful to be able to support the next generation of First Nations researchers and epidemiologists who will create a stronger pathway that supports First Nations to tell their story through data, information, and research.” She added, “These bursaries will continue to help First Nations students move one step closer to achieving their goals – grounded and supported through their ancestral knowledge and ways of knowing.”

2020 Bursary Winners

Chantai Minet was raised in the Yukon Territory and identifies as someone with mixed ancestry: First Nations (Tlingit), European, and Asian. Chantai obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Calgary in 2014. She is currently a candidate in the Master of Science in Educational Psychology Program, specializing in Counselling Psychology at the University of Calgary. Chantai has an expansive interest in culture expressed through her love of travelling and the creative arts. She has backpacked around the world, partnering with various philanthropic organizations to provide support to communities in need. Her current research with the University of Calgary explores contemporary Indigenous identity and well-being. In her spare time, she enjoys venturing to the mountains, yoga, and writing poetry. Amongst other things, she values healthy relationships, humility, kindness, and the courage of storytelling. Follow Chantai’s journey on Instagram.

Mitchell Maracle is a member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, Tyendinaga Territory. He is currently completing an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Geology with a minor in General Science at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. Mitchell was fortunate enough to return to post‑secondary education to follow his passion in geology after previously working for the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun in the Yukon in mineral exploration. He hopes to further specialize and become involved with Indigenous communities across Canada regarding natural resources and geo‑hazards on traditional lands. Follow Mitchell’s journey on LinkedIn and on Instagram.

Destiny Bird is a young and ambitious Indigenous woman from Treaty 6, Paul First Nation. She is completing her Master of Arts in Justice Studies at Royal Roads University, where she also completed an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies in 2019. Destiny has also completed a diploma in Correctional Services from MacEwan University. She is passionate about volunteering and helping people achieve their greatest potential. Her goal is to work within her field for a few years until she decides she is ready to take on an even greater educational goal, a PhD. Follow Destiny’s journey on Twitter.

Kate Dunn is Anishinaabe of Mississauga First Nation in Ontario and is currently living in Calgary, Alberta. She has a background in nursing, a Master’s degree in Public Health, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Social Sciences at Royal Roads University focusing on Indigenous Health. Her doctoral research focuses on Indigenous perspectives of health and wellness through Wisdom Seeking interviews with Indigenous Knowledge Holders that facilitate a respectful and culturally relevant approach to hepatitis C care and cure. Kate’s goal is to give back by focusing her research and work on positive social impact through wellness and changing health disparities. Follow Kate’s journey on LinkedIn.

Since it was established nearly a decade ago, FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program has awarded more than $43,000 to 23 First Nations post-secondary students across Canada. This year’s four bursaries were possible, in part, thanks to a generous contribution from Tracey P. Lariault, Assistant Professor of Critical Media and Big Data in the School of Journalism and Communication at Carleton University.

To learn more about FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program go here.

For more information on the bursary application process, contact Erin Corston, Senior Advisor, Partnerships & Capacity, at partnerships@fnigc.ca.

For more information about FNIGC, visit FNIGC.ca or contact Brad Mackay, Manager, Communications, at communications@fnigc.ca.

– 30 –

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This year’s recipients are: Nicole Shingoose, Shawna Louise McKenzie, Fiona Lizotte, and Étienne Lacasse-Vollant.

Established in 2011, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded each year to exceptional First Nations students enrolled in college or university, studying in fields related to the advancement of First Nations data sovereignty.

Selected by a committee approved by FNIGC’s Board of Directors, each recipient receives $2,500 and free registration to FNIGC’s Fundamentals of OCAP® online course.

“Education and capacity building are critical to nation rebuilding and to achieving data sovereignty” says Bonnie Healy, Chair of FNIGC’s Board of Directors. “We need First Nations epidemiologists, statisticians, and data analysts who are able to apply our own world view to our own data. It’s our hope that the FNIGC bursary helps these students get one step closer to achieving their goals.”

Meet this year’s recipients:

Nicole Shingoose is Saulteaux from Cote First Nation and Plains Cree from Moosomin First Nation. She is currently enrolled in the Medical Radiologic Technology program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic after having completing a degree in Mathematics with a minor in Life Science at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario. After graduation Nicole plans to work as an X-ray technologist and eventually further her education by applying to a secondary discipline such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Follow Nicole’s journey on Twitter: @NicoleShingoose.

A single mother, Shawna Louise McKenzie is Anishnaabe Kwe from Chippewas of Rama First Nation and Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. She is completing her Honours BASc in Media, Film, and Communication studies at Lakehead University in Orillia, Ontario. Her current areas of focus and interest include surveillance and Big Data. She says that education has been a blessing and has opened her eyes beyond the immediate and mainstream media, to see past the history of social norms. Follow Shawna’s journey on Twitter: @ShawnaRama1.

A third-year student at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus, Fiona Lizotte is Syilx from Okanagan Nation. She is completing her Bachelor of Science and currently working as a math and physics tutor for Aboriginal students while volunteering her time as an assistant volleyball coach. After graduation Fiona plans on attending dental school to pursue a career specializing in serving First Nations’ oral health needs. Follow Fiona’s journey on Twitter: @fionalizotte.

Étienne Lacasse-Vollant is Innu from Uashat mak Mani-utenam First Nation. He is currently completing his second bachelor’s degree in social work at Université du Québec à Chicoutimi and a Master’s degree at Université Laval. His thesis is focused on Indigenous spiritual practices and how they contribute to the spiritual healing of participants in the community of Uashat mak Maliotenam. His interest in this topic stems from several community members who speak of the re-appropriation of Indigenous spirituality as a component of their identity, and as a means of healing and reconciliation from the wounds of colonization. Follow Étienne’s journey on LinkedIn.

Since it was established nearly a decade ago, FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program has awarded more than $33,000 to 19 First Nations post-secondary students across Canada. This year FNIGC was able to offer four bursaries.

Thank you to Tracey P. Lauriault, Assistant Professor of Critical Media and Big Data in the School of Journalism and Communication at Carleton University, and Stats NZ Tatauranga Aotearoa for their generous donations.

To learn more about FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program go here.

For more information on the bursary application process, contact Erin Corston, Senior Advisor, Partnerships & Capacity, at ecorston@fnigc.ca.

For more information about FNIGC, visit FNIGC.ca or contact Brad Mackay, Manager, Communications, at bmackay@fnigc.ca

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Selected by a committee made up of members of the FNIGC Board of Directors, each recipient of the 2018 bursary will receive $2,500 along with free registration to FNIGC’s Fundamentals of OCAP® online course.

This year’s recipients of the FNIGC National Student Bursary are Taylor Wilson of Fisher River Cree Nation in Manitoba, and Brittany Tourangeau of Smith’s Landing First Nation in the Northwest Territories.

Ms. Wilson, a graduate student at the University of Winnipeg, is enrolled in the Masters in Development Practice: Indigenous Development program. Ms. Wilson’s proposed research will see her examine health and fitness nutrition education in Indigenous communities using Indigenous and Western food systems, as part of an effort to combat obesity and chronic diseases. Ms. Wilson hopes to build a bridge between health and food sovereignty through education and knowledge exchange.

Ms. Tourangeau is enrolled in the undergraduate nursing program at Aurora College in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. After graduation she plans on working in the Northwest Territories to build accurate statistical data on First Nations people. Ms. Tourangeau aspires to be a voice for her community and an advocate for a healthy future for all in a culturally respectful way.

As the 2018 recipients of the National Student Bursary, Ms. Wilson and Ms. Tourangeau will each receive $2,500 to help support their studies, and free registration in The Fundamentals of OCAP®, the only online course dedicated to the First Nations principles of OCAP®.

Established in 2013, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded annually to qualifying First Nations college or university students who are pursuing degrees in the fields of epidemiology, population health, biostatistics, or information and data management technology. The application process for the seventh annual bursary will begin in the summer of 2019.

FNIGC is a First Nations non-profit operating with a mandate from the Assembly of First Nations. FNIGC envisions that every First Nation will achieve data sovereignty in alignment with its distinct worldview.

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After more than year spent developing, translating and testing the course site, FNIGC is pleased to introduce Fondamentaux des Principes de PCAP^®, the French-language version of its successful OCAP^® course.

Developed in collaboration with Algonquin College, Fondamentaux des Principes de PCAP^® will allow French-speaking users to take advantage of the OCAP^® course materials, which offers unprecedented access to FNIGC’s 20 years of expertise about the First Nations principles of OCAP^® all in a user-friendly platform.

OCAP^® (which stands for ownership, control, access, and possession) are a set of standards founded in 1998 that establish how First Nations data can be collected, protected, used and shared. Over the years OCAP^® has grown to become the recognized “gold standard” for research and data collection conducted within First Nations communities.

Fondamentaux des Principes de PCAP^® offers a comprehensive overview of OCAP^® and is organized in seven modules, such as: “What is OCAP^®?”, “Implementing OCAP® at the Community Level”, and “The Future of OCAP^®”.

Though designed with the training needs of First Nations people in mind, the course is available to anyone and will prove useful to researchers or government employees looking to understand the information governance concerns and requirements of First Nations communities.

Now available in French, course registration is only $249 (plus GST/HST) and can be completed online at http://fnigc.ca/fr/training/fondements-pcap.html.

The course is designed to be completed in six hours. Once you are registered and have started the course, you will have three months to complete it.

About the First Nations principles of OCAP^®

The First Nations principles of OCAP^® are a set of standards that establish ground rules for how First Nations data can be collected, protected, used or shared. OCAP^® reflects First Nation commitments to use and share information in a way that brings benefit to the community, while minimizing any possible harm. The rights of First Nations communities to Own, Control, Access, and Possess information about their peoples is fundamentally tied to self-determination and to the preservation and development of their culture.

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