Reflections from a Summer Student

AUTHOR: SHERRY WOODS

 

Oki, nitso nitaniko Anatakiikowaan Akaiskiakii. Nitso kitomohto’tsitapiyihpa, Nitomohto’to Siksika. My name is Sherry Woods, and I am proud to come from the Siksika Nation, part of the Niisitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy).

The past three summers at Strike have been such a meaningful journey for me. With the guidance of two incredible mentors, Rocco Romano and Korrina Warners, I’ve learned so many new skills and gained confidence in my work.

What stands out the most is that Strike encouraged me to bring my full identity into the workplace. Being able to share my culture—through my writing, through dance during Reconciliation Week, and through conversations with my coworkers—has been such a powerful experience. My articles on Indigenous history and MMIW came from the heart, and I’m proud that they sparked learning, understanding, and even opened new doors for me beyond Strike.

There aren’t many people who look like me in corporate spaces, and that makes me even more grateful for the opportunity to have a seat at the table here. I hope my presence can inspire other Indigenous people to know they belong in these spaces too.

My grandparents always reminded me with the Blackfoot expression Ika’kimaat—“try hard.” It’s a lesson I carry with me: no matter how difficult or emotional the work may be, keep pushing forward with pride and perseverance.

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About the Author:

Sherry is currently studying Communications at Mount Royal University. She is working towards using her writing talents to give voices to Indigenous People and helping to tell their stories. She is a proud member of Siksika Nation and the Blackfoot Confederacy.