Chantal Adams

Haw’aa (thank you)

“I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to be offered this great gift. It has honestly been a struggle financially and this award allows me more peace and less stress and also the feeling of support by community. School can be isolating and difficult and it is very reassuring when people are so generous in supporting me.

I wouldn't be where I am today without the great mentors, guides, and the generous people that are supporting me financially. I couldn't do it without the strong Indigenous females who are facilitating our learning in the Indigenous stream. I will always remember the community and various supports that I have been gifted on my academic journey. 

My future goals are to incorporate both my tradition and spiritual practices with my academic practice. I want to help others in whatever capacity I can hold for them. I am lucky to have such an amazing organization and community supporting me. Haw’aa. Haw’aa. Haw’aa.”

The Ramona Williams Memorial Scholarship was set up by the Cowichan Tribes on Vancouver Island, the largest First Nations community in BC. The scholarship awards $1,000 to an academically outstanding Indigenous student enrolled in the School of Child and Youth Care. Established four years ago, the award is named in honour of Ramona Williams, a beloved and respected Elder in the community who served on the tribal council from 1984 to 1999.