Reuben Boulette
- Home Community:
Little Black River First Nation - Cultural Identity:
Anishinaabe/Métis - Current Position:
Indigenous Graduation Coach at Grant Park High School - Education/Training:
Bachelor of Fine Arts Honors
Bachelor of Education - Roles/Responsibilities:
My current role is to support Indigenous high school students culturally, academically, and emotionally as they work towards graduating. I also support non-Indigenous educators as they grow their understanding of Indigenous peoples and topics. Prior to this, I taught high school in Winnipeg and Grade 6 on my reserve.
“Continue to grow the gifts that you were given and offer them to others. As your gifts grow stronger, so too will you. Keep trying and don´t give up!”
What obstacles did you face and how did you overcome them?
Growing up in the north end of Winnipeg, I did not see my culture positively reflected in the school system or in society in general. Back then, I was ashamed of being an Indigenous person and wished I was part of any other culture but my own. On top of that, many of my friends were joining different gangs and getting into trouble. Most ended up dropping out of school. Education was not a priority in my life and I eventually stopped attending high school.
Being gifted with the ability to draw, I eventually reached my goal to be an artist. I graduated high school at 21 years old and was admitted to the University of Manitoba School of Art shortly thereafter. Eventually, I started working with youth as a mentor and art instructor. Helping youth who were like me, led me to pursue/complete my second degree in education.
What or who inspired you to really go after the profession you are in now?
My main inspiration is my mother. When she was in her mid 40´s, she decided to go to University to obtain a degree in social work. She did this on her own while raising 4 children. Seeing her do this inspired me to try my hand at University.
What critical choices or decisions did you make that helped you get where you are today?
I am here today because I had the ability to try something different and work towards my goals. Earning my 2 Degrees was challenging and there were times that I almost gave up. But because I held on and kept trying, I got to where I am today.
Message of Encouragement:
Continue to grow the gifts that you were given and offer them to others. As your gifts grow stronger, so too will you. Keep trying and don´t give up!
