UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN
Siblings build connection and community through unique mentorship program

When Raven Saganace was approached to be a mentor at the inception of the program, it was an offer she couldn't refuse.

Andrew and Raven Saganace say the Building Intercultural Resilience Mentorship program has had a meaningful impact on both of their lives. (Photo: Submitted)

"I was hesitant at first, but eventually I put in an application because it looked like such a great program," said Raven.

The Building Intercultural Resilience Mentorship (BIRM) program connects post-secondary students with Indigenous high school students to build relationships through shared experiences, interests, and goals. Weekly sessions focus on academic, cultural, and self-development activities.

"My brother Andrew had just started high school at Bedford Road, and I thought it would be a really good way for him to meet friends and have good community, so I bullied him into joining me," she joked.

The program allowed them to connect more and to explore their identities separately and together.

"I was a pretty solitary person before BIRM," said Andrew. "I kept to myself, and I was losing motivation in things, I was anxious. BIRM helped me get out of my shell, it gave me a sense of community which helped a lot."

Through the program, Indigenous students join together in cultural practices like hide tanning or going to sweat lodges or cultural camps.

"It really helped me feel more connected with my identity and myself as a person. Now I have big aspirations for life. Before BIRM I didn't really know what I was going to do. I was very lost in my direction educationally, personally, and artistically. After our year-end trip the first year of BIRM something flipped a switch in my brain, and I realized that there are so many things in the world that I can do to not only fulfill myself, but also improve myself."

Andrew is an artist and plans to get into the animation field after high school. He hopes of one day starting his own indie studio and creating things that contribute his identity as an Indigenous person.

BIRM has had such a meaningful impact on both of their lives they sometimes even look at life as "before" and "after" BIRM.

"Before BIRM I didn't have much of a community on campus," said Raven, "but now I know people wherever I go."

As a mentor, Raven has learned about leadership and communication with other mentors. All of this lends itself to Raven's desire to pursue medicine after she graduates with a Health Sciences degree this year from USask.

"I've come to the conclusion that I'd really like to help my own community, focusing more on family medicine with Indigenous youth," said Raven.

The siblings credit BIRM with much of their personal development.

"I can't recommend this program enough," said Raven.

Watch a video showcasing more of Raven and Andew's experience.

If you know someone who would like to participate in BIRM, please visit indigenous.usask.ca/engagement/birm.