Back March 05, 2025

SE Health is proud to announce the winners of its 2024 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Health Services Scholarship, an annual initiative aimed at improving healthcare and services for Indigenous communities across Canada.

This $5,000 scholarship, granted through the Saint Elizabeth Foundation, and supported by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto as part of their commitment to Truth and Reconciliation through the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund, is open to Indigenous students enrolled in full-time, certified post-secondary health profession programs.

The scholarship reflects SE Health’s ongoing commitment to collaborating with Indigenous communities and supporting Indigenous students in overcoming the systemic barriers and financial challenges they often face in pursuing education in the healthcare field. By investing in these students, SE Health is empowering the next generation of Indigenous healthcare professionals and honouring the resilience of those who have navigated similar obstacles.

This year, four outstanding individuals have been selected as recipients of the scholarship:

Noah Bennell, a member of the Northwest Territory Métis Nation, is pursuing a Doctorate in Medicine at the University of Ottawa, aiming to provide culturally appropriate care to rural Indigenous communities and shape health policies that promote equitable access for Indigenous peoples. Watch Noah's Story

Virginia Samuel, a member of the Northlands Denesuline First Nation, is studying Practical Nursing at the University College of the North with plans to return to her community as a fluent Dene-speaking nurse offering culturally sensitive care. Watch Virginia's Story


Tyla Sylvestre, a member of the Montreal Lake Cree Nation, has been a psychiatric nurse for over nine years and is now working toward a master’s degree in Psychiatric Nursing at Brandon University, focusing on improving mental health care in northern First Nation and Inuit communities. Watch Tyla's Story

Olivia Wilson, a member of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, is pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing at Queen’s University, inspired by her transformative experience working at the health clinic on the Wagmatcook Reserve. Watch Olivia's Story

These remarkable individuals embody dedication and a commitment to creating positive change within their communities. Their efforts continue to inspire future generations of Indigenous healthcare leaders. For more information on the scholarship, please click here.

Media Inquiries:
Sarah Quadri
Senior Director, Communications and Marketing, SE Health
SarahQuadri@sehc.com