For Métis youth Natalie LaPrise, spending a month away from home at York University in Toronto was more than an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). It was a chance to discover what she was capable of.
Through the support of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) Government, Natalie participated in Shad Canada 2026, a month-long educational experience that brings together high school students from across Canada to explore STEAM, entrepreneurship, leadership and personal development during the summer.
Before experiencing Shad, Natalie had no idea what she wanted to do after graduating high school. Like many young people, she had interests and ambitions but was still discovering where they might lead.
"Before attending Shad, I wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to take after graduation," Natalie wrote in a letter of thanks to MN–S. "This experience gave me the opportunity to explore new interests and discover areas that I may want to pursue in the future, while also helping me recognize some things that I don’t."
A New Experience, Far from Home
For Natalie's family, the journey began months before she boarded her flight to Toronto.
Her mother recalls the excitement of receiving Natalie's acceptance to the Shad 2026 cohort, along with news that she had received the MN–S Entrance Scholarship.
The financial support helped remove significant barriers to participation, covering registration fees and travel expenses. MN–S also provided additional funding for a laptop, allowing Natalie to fully participate in the program's lectures, research, projects, and presentations.
Without that support, her mother explained, the experience likely would not have been possible for their family.
While Natalie was eager for the adventure, adjusting to a new environment wasn't always easy.
The first days brought homesickness, unfamiliar routines and the challenges of living away from home. But as the weeks progressed, something began to change. Natalie found her footing, developed friendships and became increasingly comfortable stepping outside her comfort zone.
Discovering Confidence and Connection
Throughout the program, Natalie participated in group projects, explored different academic interests and connected with students from a wide range of backgrounds.
Among her most meaningful experiences were the friendships she developed with students from across Canada and around the world, including as far away as Dubai and Qatar. She also connected with other Métis students, including a student from Regina whose experiences reminded her of home.
For her mother, one of the most remarkable changes was seeing Natalie’s confidence grow. in confidence. For someone who disliked giving presentations as a teenager, Natalie is now confidently speaking in front of more than 70 people.
Beyond academic learning, Natalie gained independence, developed new skills and discovered that she belonged in herself in spaces that, previously, she might not have imagined herself entering, but found that she ‘belonged’ there.
"I came home with new interests, new friendships, new skills, and a better understanding of myself and what I might want for my future," Natalie wrote.
Investing in the Next Generation
Natalie's experience demonstrates how access to educational opportunities can make a meaningful difference in the lives of Métis youth.
By helping remove financial barriers, MN–S and Shad Canada are supporting students as they explore their interests, develop leadership skills and consider new possibilities for their futures.
For Natalie, the experience provided greater clarity and confidence as she continues her education.
"I am incredibly thankful that MN–S invested in me and gave me an opportunity that I otherwise would not have been able to experience."
And for her mother, watching that transformation has been equally meaningful.
She encourages other parents considering Shad for their children to embrace the opportunity, even when the thought of sending them away from home feels overwhelming. A young person may leave home uncertain about what comes next, but return recognizing they are capable of far more than they imagined.
For Natalie, that discovery is something she will carry forward long after her month at Shad Canada.
Learn more about Shad Canada and opportunities for Métis youth: https://bit.ly/Shad2027_MNSK
or Contact Jen Pritchard; jpritchard@mns.ca
