Band/Hometown: Fond Du Lac First Nation
Program: Justice Studies
Campus: Saskatoon
“Keep your nose to the grindstone so one day you can raise your head and be proud of what you created for yourself.”
For Fayden Whitedeer-McCallum, success means beating the odds and building a future he can be proud of. His journey started with a high school tour of Saskatchewan Polytechnic. “It appealed to me way more than university,” he says. “Plus, my uncle went this route to become a corrections officer. I want to follow in his footsteps.”
Fayden’s favourite experiences have been visiting correctional facilities, courthouses and other institutions as part of his program. What stands out most at Sask Polytech is the sense of community. “The supports here are incredible. Staff and peers who were strangers months ago are now people who encourage me every day.”
The Indigenous Students’ Centre became a lifeline during tough times, offering connection and support. Receiving student awards also helped ease financial stress. “Those resources and the staff were essential to my success,” he says.
Looking ahead, Fayden sees himself working for Correctional Service Canada at a federal penitentiary. His advice to others is to take it slow, “Don’t rush through life, make it last.”
