Finding strength in community: Angela Soulsby achieves her Nursing dream
When Angela Soulsby walks into her new role with Health Canada under Indigenous Services Canada, she carries with her not just a Bachelor of Nursing degree and recently completed NCLEX, but a deep, personal story of healing and hope.
Growing up in an unsafe environment shaped by historical and generational trauma, Angela faced adversity that could have easily derailed her dreams. She later experienced a health care crisis and a violent assault—both stemming from institutional systems that have long dehumanized Indigenous Peoples. Rather than let these experiences hold her back, Angela found purpose in them.
Angela shared with the Canadian Nurses Foundation, “I set my sights on nursing school and challenged myself to learn what it takes to make fundamental changes that will elevate the lives of Indigenous people out of the toxic stress, and destructive physical impacts of Colonial trauma and violence, thus relieving many from chronic diseases.”
At St John’s College, Angela found her safe space while pursuing her dreams of becoming a Nurse.
“SJC provided a place of community and acceptance for me. Regardless of background, I often found gentle spirits with welcoming smiles. It was a safe place to join other students who were also degree-driven and striving to better ourselves and our communities.”
The support from St John’s College became even more critical during challenging moments. When experiencing lateral violence during one school year, Angela found refuge in an SJC study carrel. “It became my safe haven and helped ensure my grades didn’t slip from the added stress.”
Through it all, Angela remained a serious, committed student. But it was the approachability and accessibility of SJC’s support staff that helped her push through the most difficult times. Daily Bread Café, she recalls, became a comforting place to recharge during summer research at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation or between classes. “SJC took care of its students by providing a discount at Daily Bread,” she adds with appreciation.
Angela was also a recipient of the Alfred H. Shephard Bursary, which played a pivotal role in helping her balance school, life, and motherhood.
“I did my senior practicum in isolated communities up north. I couldn’t come home for three months. The bursary allowed me to afford expensive groceries, access streaming services since outdoor activities were unsafe, and take care of my financial responsibilities back home where my young adult son lived. It relieved financial stress, so I could focus on meeting my degree requirements.”
But perhaps the most lasting impact was the way SJC helped Angela see her own value.
“Being a SJC member and scholarship recipient helped me to see my worth and value as a student and human being,” she says. “Growing up, I did not have a support network. I lacked confidence growing up—I had to be strong which can be isolating. But at SJC, I was around people who were also doing good work and supporting one another. It felt really good to fit in.”
Today, Angela stands as a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of community.
“SJC helped me to believe I was good enough to deserve good things like my Nursing degree. My goals, hopes, and dreams are coming to fruition”
Want to follow in Angela’s footsteps?
- St John’s College Scholarships are now open! Applications are due June 1st. Learn more and apply here.