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Congrats to the new nurses

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This article was published 11/03/2024 (764 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A group of Indigenous nursing graduates is off to a healthy start in their careers thanks to an innovative partnership program.

First Peoples Development Inc. (FPDI) teamed up with Assiniboine Community College (ACC) to offer a two-year practical nursing diploma program that ran from April 2022 to February 2024.

The first nine licensed practical nursing graduates received their diplomas on Feb. 16 in a celebratory ceremony and lunch held at the Viscount Gort. Friends and families gathered to cheer on the new nurses, who are members of eight different First Nation communities.

At the same time, the graduates heard congratulatory messages from provincial cabinet ministers as well as representatives from the partnering organizations. Elder Valdie Seymour offered prayers, and FPDI board president Ethel Anderson delivered opening remarks.

“This class of graduates have earned their certification that will allow them to go forward in the health-care profession field,” Anderson said.

“Health care is a challenging field. It is one of the most demanding and rewarding careers, but you have already proven you’re up for the challenge.” Uzoma Asagwara, deputy premier and minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, said it’s critical to have increased and improved representation in health care.

“The importance of your roles cannot be overstated. We’re super grateful that you chose this path. We’re excited for you. I’m excited for you,” Asagwara told the grads.

“As a nurse myself, I know how special this path is.

What you’ve chosen is a calling. Not everybody can do what you’ve done today.”

Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, who is responsible for accessibility and gender equity, congratulated the graduates.

“Health is a difficult path and I don’t think I need to tell anyone in this room the way that our people can often be treated in that space,” she said. “And now you have that sacred responsibility of dismantling that space.”

Renée Cable, minister of Advanced Education and Training, reminded the grads they are wearing down the path for those who tread after them.

“Please know how deeply loved and respected you are,” Cable said. “I’m just so proud, tickled pink, to be here — and I can’t wait to see what you do.”

Deanna Rexe, ACC’s vice-president academic, expressed gratitude to the new nurses for entering the profession.

“Thanks, nurses, for answering the call to come learn with us, answering the call to service in a profession that has such importance in all of our lives,” Rexe said. “Your choice to enter this program and this profession will make a difference.”

Kimberly Walker, ACC’s academic chairperson, recognized the graduates’ dedication, perseverance and grace.

“During your time as a nurse, you will give your patients the help they need to live their lives to the fullest,” she told the group of grads.

“You will be their hope and guide, offering comfort to them in their time of pain, grief and sorrow. You’re stepping into a big role, but I truly believe that each one of you is truly capable of fulfilling the responsibility of caring for people across their lifespan.”

To learn more about FPDI programs and upcoming training opportunities, please check out their website at FPDINC.CA or call them at 204-987-9570.