Katie Manomie - Indigenous Family Support and Indigenous Studies

“Camosun College has helped me immensely with finding my identity as an Indigenous woman,” begins Katie. “I am finally learning how to walk in both worlds.” Katie, who was born in Iqaluit, Nunavut and part of what the Canadian government refers to as the “60s Scoop”. She was raised not knowing any of her culture, family, or Inuit traditions. “I feel that Camosun College has guided and shaped me in learning about the effects of colonialism and I’ve learned how to navigate those emotions,” says Katie. Not only has she connected with her culture she’s had the opportunity to learn about the local communities. “Camosun has a great connection to the Indigenous community in Lekwungen territory,” says Katie. “I really enjoy my time spent with the Indigenous Elders and knowledge keepers through Eyēʔ Sqȃ’lewen.”

I want to advocate for Indigenous people.

For Katie, Camosun is just the beginning of her journey. She graduated with distinction from the Indigenous Family Support program and is on her final semester of the Indigenous Studies program. “From here, I’ve applied at the University of Victoria for the Indigenous Studies degree program and after that I hope to enter the Indigenous Law program. I want to advocate for Indigenous people.”  

Katie was part of a group of students from Eyēʔ Sqȃ’lewen - Centre for Indigenous Education & Community Connections that went to New Zealand to learn about Māori culture. 

Read about their experience