The Indigenous Career Mentor Program is an informational interviewing program that supports Indigenous students in gathering industry information. Indigenous mentors that meet with Indigenous students provide advice on how to navigate career opportunities and challenges, mentors may also share their personal experiences navigating their own career journeys.

Indigenous students can choose their mentors from the following fields of practice: Business & Administration, Health Care, Social Services & Education, Government Services, Science & Technology, Arts & Culture, and Recreation & Sports. To learn more about the Indigenous Career Mentor Program and register visit the program homepage.

January’s mentor of the month is Carla Loewen

What is your position title and where do you currently work?

Director, Indigenous Student Centre, University of Manitoba

Briefly describe what you do in your current occupation:

As director, I am responsible for overseeing the activities and programming of the Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) in Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge at the Fort Garry Campus. Programming includes student advising staff who take care of Indigenous students’ needs in a holistic way by offering programming for students in every stage of their academic journey including first year transition, retention and success, financial wellness, cultural learning, and student care. In addition, ISC has an Indigenous graduate student success coordinator who supports Indigenous graduate students throughout their programming. Our programming is organized and facilitated with student wellness in mind. Instilling sense of belonging, student engagement and community-building is embedded into our work, which makes it meaningful and fun because of the things we get to do for, and with, students.

ISC also has an Elders-in-Residence program who are integral to the University of Manitoba because they are available to students and staff for cultural learning, traditional teachings, Indigenous identity exploration, ceremonial work and more. We currently have two Elders and a Grandmother-in-Residence who are kept very busy!

Lastly, ISC leads the annual graduation pow wow for students in May of each year, which is an event that celebrates the achievements of Indigenous students in a culturally inclusive and special way. We love that we get to do this for students each year.

What initially sparked your interest in the career you have chosen for yourself?

I have worked in student support for my whole career starting as an academic advisor with the First Year Centre where I specialized in first year advising and was able to develop an Indigenous peer mentor program. When I moved to ISC it was to be the student advisor who led transitions programming, which I did for five years before becoming the director. Supporting Indigenous student success is the foundation of my career and is important to me.

What are some lesser-known duties or work outcomes your role is responsible for that people may not be aware of?

People may not be aware that I also oversee Migizii Agamik in terms of building maintenance and room bookings. One of the first things I did as director was to get a construction project approved to move a hallway door back to make the accessible washroom on the main floor accessible (when the building was opened it was originally a private staff washroom and designated as an accessible washroom later). That door was changed to be an accessible door. Physical Plant helped by making our other main hallway door accessible as well. This may be why Migizii Agamik is often referred to as the Indigenous Student Centre but there are several units who have offices in here, it is not just us.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I am passionate about supporting Indigenous student success in any capacity. In this role I get to do it in a more administrative way through supporting unit activities, but I also make sure to continue to make and nurture connections with students. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing students start their academic journeys here, complete their degrees and go onto doing amazing things in their communities and networks. Through the process of being a cheerleader and informal mentor, those connections continue post-graduation, which is another perk of the work I do. Encouraging community building and creating safe and supportive networks often leads to friendship and that’s awesome!

What are some changes you’ve experienced in your field, or changes you anticipate happening in the near future?

Broadly, my career has been in post-secondary education, which has all been at the University of Manitoba. I also have received my education here. I started university in 1996 and completed my Bachelor of Education. At that time there was one Cross-Cultural Education course I could take that talked about Indigenous students in the classroom and besides what I found to help my own learning like a Cree language course and writing papers on Indigenous topics, Indigenous initiatives on campus were just starting to emerge. The Aboriginal Student Centre had only recently opened, and the Indigenous campus community was small (but mighty). The Indigenous staff that worked at UM in the mid-90s are the ones who broke down barriers and made the changes needed for the UM to be what it is today. Those folks in turn were inspired by the changemakers before them and that’s what I aspire to be for others one day; someone who helped continue to create change here. That ongoing reciprocity is the holistic approach that grounds my work and what I envisioned I could accomplish when I was starting out and developed an Indigenous peer mentor program where Indigenous students support each other through each year of study. It’s neat to reflect on this and see how that’s unfolded over time.

It’s important to acknowledge at this point amongst all the glowing comments I am making here is that that higher education institutions were founded on colonized, Western thinking where Indigenous Peoples were once not welcome. This is never forgotten in the work done within the Indigenous campus community.

What are some strengths, specialties, and characteristics that are considered assets in your field

Characteristics that have helped me in my field are patience, diplomacy, the willingness to listen, the willingness to do hard, uncomfortable work when necessary, and the ability to create relationships built on trust and reciprocity. These strengths have allowed me to create a supportive network at UM across campus(es).

What is a piece of advice you would offer to Indigenous students interested entering your field?

For this question, I am considering the field of supporting Indigenous student success. My advice is to learn about Indigenous history and contemporary issues to understand why this work is important. Most importantly, do not let where you are in your understanding of who you are as an Indigenous person limit what you can do. Everyone I know is at their own place of learning when it comes to their cultural knowledge or strengths, you can learn and work in these spaces at the same time. That is what I have done, and it has served me well and I will continue to keep learning about who I am as a Cree woman. It’s all part of the process of becoming strong in who you are. I have my mentors and Elders to thank for how I have developed over time in understanding this.

Are there any resources you feel could support Indigenous students interested in this career path?

To work in post-secondary education in a student advisor role, it’s best to have an undergraduate degree in areas such as education, family studies, health studies, or a degree in Arts or Science. Anything to help your understanding of social issues and needs. Being a university graduate also helps you understand the student experience because you have gone through it yourself. To work in administration support, an undergraduate degree is also foundational. I also have a master’s in education in adult and postsecondary and just embarked on my PhD in education to continue to give back in different ways. For those who don’t have the time or opportunity to complete a degree before going into the work field, there are so many interesting and varied opportunities for working at a university. I joke to people that once university life gets into your system, you never leave. It’s like we choose to stay at the Hotel University of Manitoba (I actually just made that last part up; if you get it, it’s maybe funny).

Within your industry or field, what are some related occupations that you interact with and/or find interesting?

Our unit has partnerships with many of the Student Affairs student resource offices and so we work with advocates, counselors, social workers, psychologists, academic advisors, librarians, career counselors, study specialists, professors, doctors, lawyers to name a few. I find them all interesting!

During your career journey what support(s), resource(s), and/or event(s) influenced your decision-making process?

When thinking about what you want to do “when you grow up” talk to people in your areas of interest because they can give you real world feedback about the field. When I was an undergraduate student just starting out, I wish I had known how many resources were available to me. I highly recommend seeing a student advisor at least once a year (for course selection assistance to make sure you are picking the right courses), see them more if you are considering a program change or run into academic difficulty, and once narrowing it down, see a career specialist who can provide more insight into your area(s) of choice.

To meet with mentors like Carla Loewen, register for the Indigenous Career Mentor Program. Explore, connect and build confidence as you proceed in your career journey!

If you are an Indigenous professional interested in sharing your story and connecting with students, consider volunteering as a mentor in the Indigenous Career Mentor Program.

Welcome to Winter Term 2026. I hope you enjoyed the holiday break and are ready to hit the books, return to your routines, and make good on some of your New Year resolutions! 
Whether you are new to the University of Manitoba or a returning student, I hope you find the highlights and reminders noted in this email helpful as you start the new academic term at UM: 

• New International students: Participate in Welcome Events hosted by the International Centre beginning today and throughout January. 

• New Graduate students: Register for Winter Graduate Student Orientation on January 13. 

• Honour the Indigenous Campus Community (HICC):  this year 10 individuals representing the diversity of the Indigenous campus community, whose actions support, inspire and strengthen our campuses will be honoured. Nominations for the 10th HICC are now open. 

• Student supports: Explore the wide range of personal and academic resources available to support your well-being and success. 

• Career Fair: Attend the annual UM Career Fair on January 27 and 28 at UMSU University Centre, to meet employers and explore future opportunities.

• Get involved: Explore the many ways to get involved on campus. Gain experience and develop employability skills through countless curricular and co-curricular experiential learning opportunities listed in the UMConnect catalogue.

• Fitness: Activate your gym membership through Aurora and UM’s state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

• Bison sports: Cheer on the Bisons! Claim your free tickets to Bison home games and check out gobisons.ca for the full schedule.

• Student award: Nominate a student for the new Anne Mahon Award for Community Leadership and Positive Change – the deadline is February 14.

• Stay informed: Check your UM student email for the Student Weekly and follow @umstudent on Instagram and TikTok.

Here’s to a successful and fulfilling term ahead, Bisons. I’m looking forward to seeing you on campus!

My best,

…Laurie

24/7 study space

Personal circumstances may necessitate studying during non-traditional hours. A dedicated quiet space with on-site staff is available December 8 at 8:00 p.m. to December 19 at 8:00 a.m. in the St. John’s College Library, 3^rd floor, St. John’s College. Available on a first come, first served basis, UM student ID must be presented to gain entry to the space outside regular hours (weekdays from 8 p.m. – 8 a.m. and all day on weekends). See UM Today for further details and conditions for using this space.

Study spaces

If you are in need of study space, UM Libraries are open. Find hours, study space options, and information about their satellite locations on their website.

Academic supports

Writing tutors at the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) continue to offer one-on-one appointments throughout the exam period and writing support and specialized services for graduate students. Academic Advisors remain available to you until the university closes on December 23, 2025 for the winter holiday break.

Well-being

If you are in need of some support, reach out and explore the resources available to you. The Student Wellness Centre, Healthy U and the Student Counselling Centre offer services, spaces, and opportunity to talk through challenging times. Visit their websites to learn more about their services and availability during the exam period.

Exam deferrals are a privilege

Although rare, there may be extenuating circumstances that impact your ability to write your final exam as scheduled. Be sure to review valid and non-valid reasons for deferred exams and where to get support.

Fuel your study sessions

UM Campus Services will continue to operate. Be sure to check the hours of operation for individual food outlets to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends.

Student Affairs exam outreach

Members of the Student Affairs team are offering free coffee and treats throughout the exam period:

• Share your exam-season goals with the Connection Desk (first floor UMSU University Centre) today starting at 11:30 a.m. Grab free doughnuts as a pick-me-up before exams.  Do-nut stress, you’ve got this!
• The International Centre is hosting Doughnuts and Coffee in the T. K. Lau Global Lounge 541 UMSU Centre December 9 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Crunch time: Staff from the Student Wellness Centre will be visiting study spots on campus to fuel students with snacks on Tuesday, December 9 11:30am-1:30pm. Make sure to say hi and grab some brain food!
• Look for Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Services in the tunnel network between the University Centre and Asper and study carrel areas the evenings of Wednesday, December 10 and Wednesday, December 17 between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. They’ll be handing out free coffee and treats in collaboration with UMSU.
• Swing by the Fletcher Argue hallway between 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM on Thursday, December 11, say hi to Charge Ahead mentors, and grab a sweet treat for a quick pick-me-up!

Move your body

Through the Sport and Rec fee, students have access to the university’s sport and recreation facilities and group fitness classes at both Fort Garry and Bannatyne campus locations. Visit the UM Recreation Services website for more information and to find hours of operation.

Safety

Download the UM Safe App, which gives you direct access to safety tools, services and resources, such as the Work Alone feature while studying on campus.
Remember to check the weather forecast before travelling to campus and give yourself plenty of time to make your commute.

I wish you all the best during the final exam period.  I’ll check in with you again before we close for the holiday break.

Take good care.

…Laurie

Though it is rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from taking an exam as scheduled. An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances. UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with this in mind.

If you are unable to write an exam, and have no other available documentation, you must complete the Online Self-Declaration Form to request a deferred exam. Students must be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration Form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under the UM Student Discipline By-Law.

Examples of non-valid reasons

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding)
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments

Examples of valid reasons

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event

Be sure to check in with an advisor in your home faculty to confirm which events and other reasons are relevant and may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which other documentation may be required by your faculty.

If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please view the student supports and resources that are available to you, such as:

• Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety
• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition

Best wishes to all students preparing for final examinations.

The Indigenous Career Mentor Program is an informational interviewing program that supports Indigenous students in gathering industry information. Indigenous mentors that meet with Indigenous students provide advice on how to navigate career opportunities and challenges, mentors may also share their personal experiences navigating their own career journeys.

Indigenous students can choose their mentors from the following fields of practice: Business & Administration, Health Care, Social Services & Education, Government Services, Science & Technology, Arts & Culture, and Recreation & Sports. To learn more about the Indigenous Career Mentor Program and register visit the program homepage.

December’s mentor of the month is Kathy Yerex 

What is your position title and where do you currently work?

Associate Professor, School of Dental Hygiene, College of Dentistry, University of Manitoba

Briefly describe what you do in your current occupation:

I’m an educator and researcher in the field of oral health. I teach in the classroom, lab and clinical settings, mentor students, and collaborate on research projects focused on Indigenous children’s oral health, the oral microbiome, and improving the learning experience in dental hygiene education. I’m also actively involved in professional committees and associations to support the growth and advancement of the profession.

What initially sparked your interest in the career you have chosen for yourself?

Growing up, I had positive experiences visiting the dental hygienist and dentist. I know not everyone feels that way, and I wanted to create an environment where people feel safe and comfortable accessing care. I also really enjoy working with my hands; I’ve played piano my whole life, I love crafting, and I’ve recently started beading. Dental hygiene just made sense; it allows me to combine my love of helping others with hands-on, precise work.

What are some lesser-known duties or work outcomes your role is responsible for that people may not be aware of?

There’s a lot that happens beyond teaching. I do research, mentor students outside of class, serve on various university and professional committees, and contribute to curriculum development. I also spend a lot of time exploring new ways to teach and support learners—whether through incorporating technology or adapting to students’ individual needs.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love that I’m always learning something new. Whether it’s in my research or in the classroom, there’s always something to explore. I get excited about trying new ideas, seeing how they work, and then tweaking them to better support students or improve care. Sharing what I’ve learned with others is what keeps the work meaningful.

What are some changes you’ve experienced in your field, or changes you anticipate happening in the near future?

There’s been a big shift toward more autonomy and independence in dental hygiene. We’re increasingly being recognized as primary health care providers. There’s also a stronger focus on person-centred care and the oral-systemic link—understanding that oral health is deeply connected to overall health. I’m excited to see the profession evolve in ways that allow us to contribute even more broadly to health care teams and community health.

What are some strengths, specialties, and characteristics that are considered assets in your field?

Dexterity and attention to detail are definitely important, but so are empathy, compassion, curiosity, critical thinking, and good communication skills. Being open to change, collaboration, and willing to advocate for your patients are all key. A genuine desire to support people in living healthier lives really helps you thrive in this field.

What is a piece of advice you would offer to Indigenous students interested entering your field?

We need you in this profession. Your voice, experiences, and perspective matter and they’re deeply needed to create safer, more inclusive care. If you’re interested in dental hygiene, don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek out mentors, and take up space. You belong here.

Are there any resources you feel could support Indigenous students interested in this career path?

The Indigenous Student Centre at the U of M is a great starting point, offering cultural, academic, and community support. I also highly recommend Ongomiizwin Education within the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. It’s a welcoming space for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students studying in health-related fields. They offer academic and personal support, mentorship, access to Elders and Knowledge Keepers, cultural programming, and a strong sense of community.

Programs like this mentorship initiative are also incredibly valuable, as are connections with Indigenous faculty and peers. And I encourage students to explore professional associations like the Manitoba Dental Hygienists Association (MDHA) or Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) to start building their professional networks early. There is more support out there than you might expect—sometimes you just have to ask.

Within your industry or field, what are some related occupations that you interact with and/or find interesting?

I work interprofessionally with a wide range of health professionals: nurses, pharmacists, physicians, and those in med rehab, to name a few. Dental hygienists don’t just work with dentists. We play a key role in health promotion and disease prevention across all demographics, so we’re finding ourselves part of more interdisciplinary teams, which is a really exciting shift.

During your career journey what support(s), resource(s), and/or event(s) influenced your decision-making process?

Mentorship and community have been important. I’ve also benefited from being involved in professional associations and committees early on. While I don’t think of myself as an “advocate” in the traditional sense, I know that by showing up, volunteering, and being part of the conversations shaping our profession, I’m helping move things forward. That sense of purpose has helped guide my path. And reconnecting with my Red River Métis identity helped me find purpose and direction in my work.

To meet with mentors like Kathy Yerex, register for the Indigenous Career Mentor Program. Explore, connect and build confidence as you proceed in your career journey!

If you are an Indigenous professional interested in sharing your story and connecting with students, consider volunteering as a mentor in the Indigenous Career Mentor Program.

I hope you enjoyed a restful reading week. As you return to your studies, I thought I would feature some upcoming events, services, and reminders to help you explore campus life, get connected with supports, and end the Fall term strong.

November has many exciting events taking place at the UM campuses.

International Education Week is happening this week November 17-21 and features many events to celebrate global learning and connection. The event kick-off is today at the Fireside Lounge, UMSU University Centre 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Drop in any time throughout the day, and participate in the many activities being offered all week long! See the International Education Week website for more information. 

Check out the many career workshops and special events during Career Month, including Arts Career Round Table on November 19 and Employer Advice Café on November 25. Visit the Career Month website for more information and links for registration.

Entrepreneurship and Innovative Thinking Month is taking place with many events, including the Indigenous Winter Market on November 20. Visit the Entrepreneurship and Innovative Thinking Month website for more information.

Opening today is a Child Feeding Room in 532 UMSU University Centre. This space, brought to you by Student Affairs, provides a quiet and private environment with comfortable seating, a sink area, electrical outlets, and a change table. Caregivers can access the space by signing out the key from the International Centre, 541 UMSU University Centre.

This is a busy time of year, and you are balancing many priorities, including course requirements and life commitments. Here are some supports to check out to help you achieve your academic goals while navigating life’s demands:

The Academic Learning Centre offers one-to-one tutoring, workshops, Supplemental Instruction  and other resources that will help expand your writing, learning, and study skills.

Charge Ahead provides workshops and individual appointments with peer mentors who understand what you’re going through. Drop in to 107 Tier to learn practical skills and connect with other students.

One-to-one appointments with Librarians across a wide variety of subject areas, a live chat feature, and online resources are available through UM Libraries.

Connect with Student Support services and off-campus resources to give your health and wellness a boost.

Get active through the facilities and programs offered by UM Recreation Services.

Important reminders

The deadline to Voluntarily Withdraw (VW) from Fall Term courses is tomorrow, November 18. If you are thinking about a VW, speak to an academic advisor in your home faculty or the First Year Centre to help you make the best decision.

I encourage all students to download the UM Safe App for instant access to campus safety resources, and to receive alerts from the University’s Security Services. It is an invaluable resource for all members of the UM community.

Stop by my office hours with Tina Chen, Vice-Provost (Equity) on November 24 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and December 8 11:00am-12:00pm at Degrees. These office hours provide students with the opportunity to connect informally, to share your ideas or concerns, and to engage in conversation about issues that are meaningful to you. We hope to see you there.

Check your inbox Tuesday for the Student Weekly, follow @umstudent on Instagram and TikTok, and check out UM Today.

Take care over the next few weeks, and I look forward to reconnecting before we head into the December exam series.

My best,

… Laurie

Opening November 17, 2025 is a new Child Feeding Room in 532 UMSU University Centre. Caregivers are welcome to use the space for: 

• Breastfeeding 
• Pumping milk 
• Storing breastmilk 
• Diapering 
• Feeding young children 

Dr. Brandy Usick, Executive Director, Student Engagement and Success spearheaded the project made possible thanks to the Strategic Initiatives Support Fund. 

“We are grateful for support through the Strategic Initiatives Support Fund to help us to expand support for those with family responsibilities in our community. Creation of a centrally located Child Feeding Room provides community members, particularly students, with a comfortable place to pump and to feed their infants and children.” 

This project is aligned with MomentUM strategic theme of Reimagining Engagement. Our physical spaces play a vital role in reflecting the diverse needs of our community and importance to be accessible to all. 

Francene Perehinec, Family Resource Coordinator, summarises the goals of the project: 

“The Child Feeding Room is designed to offer practical support and convenience, helping families manage their responsibilities efficiently and with confidence. We truly hope this space will become a valued and frequently visited resource for those who are pumping, nursing, or need to feed their little ones.” 

The space was designed with comfort in mind. Users will find a quiet, inviting atmosphere. Furnishings include comfortable seating, a sink, a microwave, a kettle, a mini fridge, and a change table. Supplies for easy cleanup and disinfection of surfaces are provided. For privacy, the room is also equipped with a lockable door and blinds. 

Inclusivity is another key principle incorporated into the space.  The room is accessible by elevator and has enough space to fit a stroller or wheelchair. Caregivers with multiple children can also bring them inside while they breastfeed or pump, and some books and toys are available to occupy them. 

The room is located on the 5th floor of UMSU University Centre, Room 532. Those interested in using the space can sign out the key at the International Centre (down the hall in Room 541). The room can be accessed during regular office hours 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Those wanting to access the room during after-hours events and programming are encouraged to make arrangements with Francene Perehinec, Family Resource Coordinator.

To ensure this new resource meets the needs of the community, caregivers who use the space are encouraged to complete a feedback survey via the QR code and link in the space. UM will use the responses to continue to improve this service.  

In addition to the new space, there are several other existing child feeding areas across both UM campuses: 

• Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge (114 Sidney Smith, Fort Garry Campus) 
• Student Wellness Centre (162 Extended Education, Fort Garry Campus) 
• Global Lounge at the International Centre (542 UMSU University Centre, Fort Garry Campus) 
• Faculty of Arts Quiet Room (605 Fletcher Argue, Fort Garry Campus) 
• The Women’s Centre (190 Helen Glass, Fort Garry Campus) 
• Child Feeding Room (Room 290a Brodie Centre, next to the RFHS Family Centre, Bannatyne Campus) 

Many of these spaces are subject to access upon request. Visit UM’s Family Resources website for more information including details about other services, resources, and spaces. Student can find ways to connect with community and receive support while meeting academic requirements at the Student Parents/Caregiver webpage.

The Indigenous Career Mentor Program is an informational interviewing program that supports Indigenous students in gathering industry information. Indigenous mentors that meet with Indigenous students provide advice on how to navigate career opportunities and challenges, mentors may also share their personal experiences navigating their own career journeys.

Indigenous students can choose their mentors from the following fields of practice: Business & Administration, Health Care, Social Services & Education, Government Services, Science & Technology, Arts & Culture, and Recreation & Sports. To learn more about the Indigenous Career Mentor Program and register visit the program homepage.

November’s mentor of the month is Dr. Réal Carrière

What is your position title and where do you currently work?

Assistant Professor University of Manitoba Political Studies

Briefly describe what you do in your current occupation:

I research and teach Indigenous politics. My current research project focuses on Indigenous Political Representation.

What initially sparked your interest in the career you have chosen for yourself?

I had a really inspirational professor in my first year of university. Since that first class, I was hooked. I hope to be that inspiration for the next generation and especially Indigenous youth.

What are some lesser-known duties or work outcomes your role is responsible for that people may not be aware of?

I participate in the adjudication of a lot of awards at the University of Manitoba. Chances are if you got an award, I was involved in the process.

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

I used to enjoy teaching, but as I have progressed I enjoy more the relationships and mentorship that is developed between teacher and student. I try to be that inspirational teacher. I try to help students get the most out of themselves.

What are some changes you’ve experienced in your field, or changes you anticipate happening in the near future?

Covid has really changed students expectations and participation. Since Covid, students have changed how they interact in class. I really try to find ways to get student to interact. University is the best when you can learn from each other. Artificial Intelligence is another immergence issue. I do not have the solutions to that issue but I try to get students to really engage with the material. I want them to learn for themselves and not just use AI to do the work.

What are some strengths, specialties, and characteristics that are considered assets in your field?

Curiosity, creativity, organization, focus, and independent thinking are key assets in my field.

What is a piece of advice you would offer to Indigenous students interested entering your field?

My parents used to tell me that I should stay in school. I never really believed in them but slowly over time I kept going to school and now I have a great career. So I have two pieces of advice, listen to your parents and stay in school.

Are there any resources you feel could support Indigenous students interested in this career path?

You should always make time to connect to other Indigenous students. I think we have a great centre here to meet and connect with other Indigenous students. Take time to make those connections because other students can become your family, and having those strong family connections are important if you are living away from your family and community for the first time.

Within your industry or field, what are some related occupations that you interact with and/or find interesting?

Professors in politics are constantly being asked for their expertise. We can comment on elections. We can provide advice to the leaders of the country. Studying politics is a great career path because there are so many possibilities with an education in politics.

During your career journey what support(s), resource(s), and/or event(s) influenced your decision-making process?

I had a really influential professor when I was an undergraduate student. Making the time to say hello to your professors can make all the difference in your career. I also made the time to always connect with the Indigenous student centre. The students you meet there will become your community. I came to university from a small town so meeting other Indigenous students was the key to my success.

To meet with mentors like Dr. Réal Carrière, register for the Indigenous Career Mentor Program. Explore, connect and build confidence as you proceed in your career journey!

If you are an Indigenous professional interested in sharing your story and connecting with students, consider volunteering as a mentor in the Indigenous Career Mentor Program.

Dr. Hans Joachim Wieden will join Luma Clarindo Lopes, winner of the 2025 Falling Walls Lab Manitoba in front of the Admin building.

WINNIPEG — In a proud moment for Manitoba’s innovation community, Dr. Hans‑Joachim Wieden, Associate Vice-President Partnership, Knowledge Mobilisation and Innovation, joins Luma Clarindo Lopes, winner of the 2025 Falling Walls Lab Manitoba, on her journey to Berlin this week for the Falling Walls Science Summit.

IDEA START, in partnership with the University of Manitoba (UM) and the University of Winnipeg (UWinnipeg), hosted the Falling Walls Lab Manitoba 2025, bringing together some of the province’s brightest minds in a celebration of innovation, research, and collaboration. The event’s success underscored Manitoba’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive innovation culture, making it a truly Manitoban initiative.

At the prestigious global summit, Luma will present her groundbreaking idea alongside 99 other Lab winners from around the world. She’ll be representing the University of Manitoba, our province and Canada alongside fellow Canadian finalists Annika Benson (Atlantic Canada), Artem Kushnirenko (Toronto), and Harry Wilton‑Clark (Edmonton), showcasing the strength and diversity of Canadian innovation on the world stage.

This participation underscores Manitoba’s growing footprint in research, development and innovation, reinforcing how platforms like Falling Walls can bridge local insight with international opportunity.

Empowering Manitoba’s Innovation Narrative

With Manitoba’s research and innovation sector rapidly evolving, the arrival of Luma and Dr. Wieden in Berlin represents more than mere attendance, it signals strategic alignment and ambition. As the province continues to build capacity in science‑driven enterprise, having a representative stand on the global stage advances our story and elevates local credibility.

Dr. Wieden commented:

“Berlin is not only a centre for science but a nexus of global collaboration. For Manitoba to have a voice among the world’s leading early‑career innovators is a powerful step. This platform enables us to put Manitoba squarely on the map of breakthrough research and enterprise.”

Spotlight on Luma Clarindo Lopes

Luma, whose innovative project earned her the Manitoba Lab winner title, is preparing to showcase her idea at the Fallings Walls Summit and engage with peers, mentors and global decision‑makers.

She shared:

“Representing Manitoba on this global stage is incredibly exciting. Meeting other finalists‑innovators from around the world, exchanging ideas and learning from diverse perspectives will be a career‑shaping experience. I’m proud to carry the province’s flag and eager for every minute of the journey.”

Strategic Value for Manitoba’s Ecosystem

Platforms like Falling Walls Lab offer powerful momentum for both individuals and regions. For early-career innovators, it’s a chance to gain global exposure, sharpen their pitching skills, and build international networks. For ecosystems like Manitoba, it means a stronger talent pipeline, greater visibility, and new opportunities for collaboration.

These ripple effects support broader provincial goals, from accelerating research-to-market pathways to attracting investment and deepening ties between academia and industry.

In this landscape, Dr. Hans-Joachim Wieden plays a pivotal role. He’s not only helping Luma prepare for the global stage but also positioning Manitoba’s innovation story within a wider international narrative. His mentorship highlights a key truth: behind every standout idea is a community working toward lasting impact.

Canadian Cohort Joins Global Innovation Line‑Up

• Annika Benson (Atlantic Canada): Winner of the Falling Walls Lab Atlantic Canada, now advancing to present in Berlin to present her research on development and testing of a miniature, high-resolution, tracked ultrasound probe for brain surgery.
• Artem Kushnirenko (Toronto): PhD candidate and Lab Toronto winner, heading to Berlin to pitch his translational surgical analytics innovation.
• Harry Wilton‑Clark (Edmonton): First‑place winner at Lab Edmonton 2025 with a project on antisense therapy for rare diseases.

Together with Luma, they form a Canadian cadre taking local innovation to the world’s premier science summit.

In Summary

The trip to Berlin is not simply a travel opportunity, it is a tangible expression of Manitoba’s ambition to be recognized among global centres of innovation. With Luma Clarindo Lopes representing Manitoba on the world stage, accompanied by Dr. Hans‑Joachim Wieden, the province is charting a path from local ingenuity to global relevance. The journey will unfold not just in Berlin, but in how Manitoba leverages this spotlight to advance its innovation agenda.

Tutors from Disability Services, ACCESS programs, Aboriginal Focus Programs, the ALC Writing Tutor Program, ALC Content Tutors, Bison Sport Plus, Campus Life, UMES, UM Peers, and the U1 Mentorship Program have taken part in and benefitted from previous training sessions.

Tutor Training is designed to improve the overall quality of tutoring on campus. Participants benefit by learning about the role of a tutoring life cycle by improving critcal thinking and communication skills. Tutors who attend the training and complete the assigned activities also earn recognition on their Experience Record.

Tutor Training is free and open to all UM students. Registration is available through out ALC General Tutor Registration form for November 2025.

The next Tutor Training session runs from 1 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12 in room 206 Tier building.