
Wawatay scholars at the first annual Wawatay celebration dinner
Honouring Indigenous excellence in science
First annual Wawatay celebration dinner
A warm sense of pride and community filled the University Centre conference room as the first annual Wawatay celebration dinner brought together students, staff and faculty to honour the academic achievements and collective strength of the Wawatay Scholars.
At the heart of the evening celebration was the recognition of the perseverance of Indigenous students pursuing science degrees at the University of Manitoba. The event marked an important milestone for Wawatay and its growing community, with heartfelt acknowledgements of student accomplishments and a feast shared in unity.
The evening honoured three exceptional graduates:
- Taylor MacLeod [BSc/22]
- Brandon Wozniak [BSc/25]
- Jenessa Martel [BSc/25]
Each graduate was celebrated for their hard work, determination and contributions to the Wawatay community. As part of the celebration, they were gifted handmade graduation medallions to honour their achievement and the significance of their academic journey. Their stories reflect the essence of what Wawatay stands for: academic achievement, cultural identity and supporting one another as a community.
In the weeks leading up to the celebration, students were invited to reflect on their experiences in Wawatay and the connections they’ve built over the past year.
“I loved that I got to meet so many wonderful people, both students and staff, throughout the Wawatay school year,” shared one student.
Another added, “The best part of being in Wawatay is that it’s like being in a family.”
The dinner served as a recognition of individual accomplishments, a celebration of community, and collective resilience. It brought everyone together in a space of reconnection, reflection and shared joy.
Wawatay was created as a space where Indigenous students could thrive. It was created to be a space where many Nations, languages, teachings and life experiences are welcomed and celebrated. From students raised in ceremony and language to those reconnecting with their heritage, Wawatay affirms that all these stories matter, and all these stories belong.
While rooted in science education, the Wawatay student community is inclusive of Indigenous students pursuing science-related degrees across other faculties. The program also ensures students are aware of and connected to other Indigenous-led programs on campus. Many Wawatay Scholars are active in the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment, Bison Spirit and other cultural and leadership opportunities.
Together, Wawatay Scholars are building a space where Indigenous excellence shines in many forms. A space where students can bring their whole selves into their learning, supported by a community that honours their strengths, identity and potential.
As the program continues to grow, events like the Annual Wawatay Celebration Dinner reflect the core values of Wawatay: love, support, academic success, and a deep commitment to Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing.