Knowing Yourself
“If you have the chance, use your life experience to inform your learning. Being able to connect the content to real life scenarios could support your practice in the future, you may surprise yourself with how much you already know.” - Brin Wylie
We asked 2022 Kw’umut Lelum Indspire Award winner Brin Wylie to share her story with us - about her experiences in school, what she wishes to learn, and what advice she might have for others as they consider their education journey.
My name is Brin Wylie, my traditional name is Tth’imithiye’. I am a member of Stz’uminus First Nation and reside in the unceded traditional territory of Snuneymuxw First Nation.
What are you studying and how did you decide which program to take?
I have now completed my Bachelors of Social Work with an Indigenous Social Work specialization through the University of Victoria.
Share a bit about your educational journey so far.
I have been connected to community work my entire life, starting with the Friendship Centre, accessing service and then transitioning to being a worker. I have been privileged to be connected to community through these opportunities and continue to work in human services. Working while being a student had a lot of challenges, I did not receive educational funding through my nation which lead to me taking part-time studies to complete my degree so I could work full-time.
Who or what has been your biggest support at post-secondary?
My mother had been my biggest cheerleader through my educational journey. I had financial and emotional support from her while I attended my studies. She inspired my work and educational journey through her leadership and support in our community.
What advice would you offer to either your younger self or Indigenous youth from your community?
Take your time to explore you interests and education goals, don’t let others determine your destination. You are the expert of your own experience.
“If you have the chance, use your life experience to inform your learning. Being able to connect the content to real life scenarios could support your practice in the future, you may surprise yourself with how much you already know.”
What is something you wish you knew before heading off to Post Secondary Education?
Before I went to post-secondary I wish I knew how much my interests would change from my first to final year, and that that’s okay. Everyone is growing and learning when they enter their program to when they finish, and if the program you started in isn’t the same program you ended in there’s probably a good reason!
What are your hopes, dreams, and goals for the future and what has the Kw’umut Lelum Indspire Award meant for your continued pursuit of these goals and dreams?
The KL Indspire award ensured I could complete my final practicum free of financial stress. As I did not receive additional funding while completing my education, the idea that I needed to take 12 weeks off of work was weighing on me. This funding allowed me to finish my degree strong without the underlying stress of making ends meet. In turn, this made it so I could come out of the university gates back into my work without outside pressures impacting my ability to support my community. I am very grateful for the opportunity and would love to connect and find other ways to give back in the future!
