Hello, my name is Tanya Monkman, and I am a proud mother to three teenaged children, a partner to my husband for 20+years and I am currently on my own educational journey as both a Catep student and a full-time employee with the Seven Oaks School Division. I am also a proud Indigenous woman with ancestral roots to The Red River Metis, Matheson Island Mb and Fisher River Cree Nation.

Professionally, I explored many different avenues of education and employment, prior to being a part of the Seven Oaks Team, some of which included Community Inclusion Facilitator, Psychiatric Support Worker, and most recently Early Years Education/Family Support affiliated with The Selkirk Friendship Center. Throughout this work, I have been deeply moved by the opportunities to connect with my community in a greater effort of building capacity and strengthening our relationships and communal awareness.

Navigating the education system during my younger years was not always fluid, it often came with obstacles and barriers, which is what may have led me on the path I walk today. Recognizing many of the same struggles youth and families face today was partially what influenced me in making this career move. Ensuring youth feel seen, valued and connected to their community, and their culture while also being supported in recognizing their own gifts they bring is deeply meaningful.

    It is a great honour this year to serve as the Middle Years Cultural Connector for Indigenous Youth, because I have been profoundly inspired by the mentors, knowledge keepers and elders that support this beautiful and necessary work. Moving forward my hope is that together we continue to foster a strong sense of belonging that supports and empowers Indigenous Youth and families for generations to come.