My name is Danielle Candice Colombe Voyageur and I am twenty-eight years old. As a member of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, I am proud to be a strong and independent Dene woman. Completing my BA in Native Studies at the University of Alberta was a struggle for me; however, I believe that my perseverance has a great deal to do with the many challenges and obstacles I have overcome throughout my life. After three years of academic upgrading at NorQuest College, I came to the conclusion that post-secondary education would be the most effective way to work towards obtaining a career and serving my community of Fort Chipewyan, Alberta. Initially I began my Native Studies Degree through the Transition Year Program offered at the University of Alberta. At this point in my life I did not know where the future would lead me and my main goal was to complete my first year and prove to myself that university was where I belonged. As I walk across the stage to obtain my eagle feather in June, I know that I will be following
a long line of Aboriginal women who have persevered despite the challenges that stood in their path.

I chose to do a BA in Native Studies because I am interested in the many issues involving Aboriginal communities. Through various courses such as Aboriginal Legal Issues and Management of Natural Resources, I have come to learn about the strength of First Nations in upholding our legal traditions within the Canadian legal system. My past has played a large role in how I approach my studies as woman who has been through the Child Welfare System, I have come to appreciate the strength of our people in overcoming some of life’s greatest challenges. The impact of colonization has no doubt left a lasting impression on Aboriginal people; however, our perseverance can be seen the many Aboriginal students striving to improve the lives of their community members through education.