Meet the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient for Outstanding Young Alumni
Honouring Excellence: Tréchelle Bunn, a leader in education, advocacy, and Reconciliation
Tréchelle Bunn’s journey at UM showcases her academic excellence and community dedication. As a proud member and newly elected Chief of the Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, made the Dean’s Honour List, and was the student speaker at the 2023 Traditional Graduation Pow Wow. Now pursuing a law degree at Robson Hall, she is a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights, reconciliation, and social justice. From founding the Reconciliation Run to speaking at the United Nations, her work aims to uplift Indigenous voices and drive meaningful change. We proudly celebrate Tréchelle as the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient for Outstanding Young Alumni.
Education and community engagement
As she wrapped up her second year in the Juris Doctor program at Robson Hall, Tréchelle advocates for systemic reform aimed at reducing the over-incarceration of Indigenous peoples and improving access to legal resources.
“Education is a tool for change,” Tréchelle explains. “It’s about more than just personal growth—it’s about uplifting those around us and creating pathways for future generations.” Her time at UM not only honed her academic skills but also cultivated her leadership abilities. She credits the university’s supportive environment for helping her balance academics, athletics, and advocacy work, shaping her into a well-rounded leader.
Her leadership roles extend to serving as Vice President of Internal Relations for the Manitoba Indigenous Law Students Association, co-chair of the Provincial Suicide Prevention Strategy Advisory Group, and board member for organizations like the Nellie McClung Foundation and the Southern First Nations Network of Care. Trechelle went from serving as the Southern Chiefs Organization’s Youth Chief to most recently being elected Chief of the Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation. Making her the first woman elected as Chief in her nation and the youngest serving Chief in Manitoba. These positions exemplify her dedication to community well-being and systemic change.
Reconciliation in action
Tréchelle’s commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous rights is evident through her innovative initiatives. Her most notable project, the Reconciliation Run, is a 26-kilometer walk from the former Birtle Residential School to Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, which evolved into an annual half-marathon held on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This event – honouring her grandparents who were residential school survivors – has grown to attract participants from across Canada and serves as a powerful symbol of healing and remembrance.
Proceeds from the Reconciliation Run fund the Reconciliation Run Scholarship, which supports the recruitment of Indigenous athletes to Bison Sports and creates opportunities for future generations and encourage the use of sport as a powerful tool for reconciliation. “This scholarship removes barriers and opens doors,” Tréchelle emphasizes. “It’s about giving Indigenous youth the opportunity to thrive in sports and education—something I am deeply passionate about.”
Athletic achievement and mentorship
Tréchelle’s athletic pursuits as a member of the Bisons Women’s Hockey Team exemplify her dedication to excellence and teamwork. Beyond her contributions on the ice, she co-launched a mentorship program aimed at Indigenous youth, encouraging participation in sports and education while celebrating cultural heritage. This initiative reflects her belief in leading by example and fostering opportunities for Indigenous youth to succeed.
Her athletic journey has been more than personal achievement; it’s a platform for community empowerment. “Being part of the team taught me the importance of resilience and collaboration,” she shares. “I want to inspire young Indigenous athletes to see that anything is possible with hard work and support.”
Advocacy and future impact
Her advocacy extends to international platforms as well. Tréchelle has addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, raising awareness about issues such as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit individuals. Her voice amplifies the urgent need for systemic change and justice.
Tréchelle’s impactful work has garnered numerous awards, including an Indspire Award, the CBC Manitoba Future 40 Award, the First Peoples Law Indigenous Student Scholarship, and the UM Emerging Leader Award. Tréchelle’s accomplishments are a testament to her dedication to her community, her education, and her advocacy for Indigenous rights. Her story inspires others to pursue their passions while uplifting those around them.
She reflects on her journey with humility: “Mentorship and leading by example are my guiding principles. I want to show young Indigenous people that their dreams are valid and achievable.”
As she continues her legal studies and advocacy work, Tréchelle remains committed to fostering Reconciliation, justice, and opportunity for Indigenous youth. “My goal is to give back, to be a silent leader and lead by example. If I can inspire even one person to believe in themselves and their potential, I know I’ve made a difference.”
As we celebrate Tréchelle’s accomplishments at the 66th UM Distinguished Alumni Awards, presented by TD Insurance, UM is proud to recognize her as a shining example of what it means to be a leader, advocate, and changemaker.