Band/hometown: Kinistin Saulteaux Nation
Program: Business Diploma - Human Resources
Campus: Moose Jaw
“Failure doesn’t define who you are, and it doesn’t define your future. Use it as a step to learn and overcome the barriers of life.”
Hunter Nippi-Thirsk has a healthy attitude towards life’s inevitable challenges.
“Failure doesn’t define who you are, and it doesn’t define your future,” he says. “Use it as a step to learn and overcome the barriers of life. Getting back up is what shapes us to be what we are meant to be in the world.”
Although he faced challenges during his studies, Hunter says the Indigenous Students’ Centre was a “phenomenal” resource. “It allowed me to connect with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, other Indigenous students and a staff committed to the TRC calls to action.”
He also found an encouraging, compassionate staff member there who motivated him and helped lighten the load of stress. “She assures all Indigenous students that we are in the right place and we will succeed one way or another if we put in the work.”
Hunter says Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s supports have helped him “mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually.”
That strong, healthy foundation has helped contribute to his positive outlook on life and learning. “It’s not about the abilities you are born with,” he says. “It’s about the people you meet on the journey that help you reveal the abilities you have within yourself.”