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Kianna Bear-Hetherington says the University of New Brunswick helped her reconnect with her Indigenous roots.

She is graduating with a bachelor of science in environmental and natural resources (ENR) with a major in water resource management. The environmental focus of her studies gave her purpose in her work with the land.

“In high school, I never had the opportunity to experience that land-based education that my spirit longed for. The ENR program at UNB has you outdoors in the field at least 2-3 days a week rather than just sitting in a classroom all day, so it was very healing for me as I could return to my roots.”

Kianna will address spring 2023 graduates in the faculties of forestry and environmental management, nursing and science on the Fredericton campus.

As the first Wolastoqey valedictorian and Indigenous valedictorian in a STEM-related field at UNB, she is accustomed to breaking down barriers.

“My life purpose is to leave a legacy of helping the next generation live in a better world with more opportunities than exist today.”

Kianna recently reflected on her time at UNB and her plans for the future. Here’s what she had to say:

What made you pursue your studies in Environmental and Natural Resources with a major in Water Resource Management?

Being proudly of the Wolastoqiyik “people of the beautiful and bountiful river,” I grew up with a special relationship with the land and all living things. My relationship with nature is based on a profound spiritual connection to our Mother Earth. I am driven by a deep spiritual connection to nature and a burning desire to help Indigenous communities. In all areas of my life, I am a fierce advocate for advancing Indigenous rights through returning to our sacred relationship with our Mother Earth. Growing up outside of my Indigenous community (Sitansisk), I was always left feeling disconnected and unsure of my roots. Reconnecting with my culture has helped me discover many passions and find purpose in my work with the land.

What brought you to UNB for your studies?

In my final year of high school, I had no idea where my educational journey would take me. Truthfully, I planned on taking a year off to discover what I was truly passionate about and what would ignite that spark within me. My father was the one who pushed me to apply for this program at UNB. If it weren’t for his unconditional support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. However, it became clear that upon entering university, I knew that this program was for me. In high school, I never had the opportunity to experience that land-based education that my spirit longed for. The ENR program at UNB has you outdoors in the field at least 2-3 days a week rather than just sitting in a classroom all day, so it was very healing for me as I could return to my roots. Green careers are empowering, interesting, and fulfilling, so I hope my peers will aspire towards environmental education and keep inspiring others to do the same.

What are your plans after graduation, both immediate and long-term?

After graduation, I will start a full-time position as a Fisheries Technician with the Wolastoqey Nation. I have aspired to work for this organization since I started my university journey. I always knew that I would work for an Indigenous-led organization that supports Wolastoqey communities in consultation and Aboriginal and Treaty Rights. It is through my passion for environmental stewardship and Indigenous rights that I aim to educate and inspire Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to engage in respectful, reciprocal relationships with nature and Indigenous communities. My activism reinforces the beliefs and values that I intend to bring forward in my chosen career path – to be a voice for communities facing environmental injustices and to encourage our youth to use their voices. Although I am taking a year off to work in the industry, I will be pursuing a master’s in the near future. I am considering the option of studying abroad in Europe with field courses in the Caribbean, Amazonian, or Asian wet tropics. It is important that I challenge my own perceptions and step outside my comfort zone. My life purpose is to leave a legacy of helping the next generation live in a better world with more opportunities than exist today.

What is the most important lesson you are taking away from your time at UNB?

Throughout my university experience, I have overcome many great barriers and adversities as an Indigenous woman navigating my way through the STEM field. Ultimately, the only way that I have been able to challenge this adversity has been through having a strong sense of conviction and a sense of self. I defined myself in the last five years by understanding and demonstrating that there is power in narrative and in vulnerability. It was important that I reclaim my narrative and not be inaccurately defined by others on my own journey. From seeking support from my family, friends, and mentors, I was empowered to move forward and stand by my conviction to enhance diversity and inclusive practices within the university and beyond. We are the agents of change, and we get to decide what future we want to create for ourselves and the generations to come. With a community to stand behind you and a mentor to guide you, you can take the risk that might move mountains.

If you were to offer a piece of advice to someone embarking on their university journey, what would it be?

My advice would be to get involved in student initiatives within the university. Joining a student organization presents many opportunities to learn more about yourself, your goals, and your strengths. For the past two years, I had the incredible opportunity to serve as the Indigenous Student Representative (Nuci Putawasuwin) for the UNB Student Union. In this role, I focused on improving the experiences and opportunities offered to Indigenous students through a culturally safe lens. This opportunity empowered me to take on more leadership roles and gave me a stronger sense of self. Getting involved on campus is an ideal way to build your professional network while still in school.

Kianna was interviewed on CBC Radio’s Information Morning May 17 in Fredericton. Kianna tells host Jeanne Armstrong that she wants her valedictory address to inspire women and other Indigenous students.