Redefining Leadership: ICE and Bison Spirit Empower Indigenous Student Growth
Annual reflection on Indigenous student leadership programs at UM
Indigenous students at the University of Manitoba (UM) who’ve completed the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment (ICE) and Bison Spirit leadership programs are helping shape the future of Manitoba. Rooted in Indigenous values and knowledge systems, these future dentists, architects, nurses, doctors, lawyers, linguists, social workers and more are redefining what leadership means—across disciplines, communities, and generations.
At a recent celebration for students who completed this year’s programs, Elder Carl Stone said, “You’re not learning how to be a leader—you’re learning how to be yourself.”
His words resonated deeply with students and captured the heart of both programs: that leadership is not about fitting a mold, but about growing authentically from culture, identity and relationship.
This year’s ICE and Bison Spirit students came together at the Leaf for a meaningful gathering celebrating Indigenous leadership and growth
From isolation to belonging
For many Indigenous students, entering university can feel overwhelming.
Mika Cordell, from Thompson and a student in the Faculty of Engineering, recalled, “I seriously considered quitting. I didn’t feel a sense of belonging.” But through Bison Spirit, he formed connections with fellow Indigenous students and connected with his culture through pipe and sweat lodge ceremonies—experiences that became a foundation for his persistence and well-being at UM.
Bison Spirit speaker Mackaila Bruce-Tapley, a Red River Métis student with strong ties to the community of St. Laurent, Manitoba, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Health Sciences in the Faculty of Health Sciences. Her remarks echoed this sentiment.
“If I had to choose one word to describe what this program gave me, it would be ‘belonging.’ I found my place here, felt supported, and built real community……I only wish I had known from the start how impactful and enriching this experience would be.”
Aliyhia Bushie (second from left), one of this year’s program participants; Elder Norman Meade is pictured on the far right.
ICE member Aliyhia Bushie, from Hollow Water First Nation and an aspiring dentist at UM, shared a similar experience. She felt that even something as simple as sharing a meal or having a conversation—just being together—could make a big difference. ICE, as a safe and welcoming space, helps Indigenous students truly feel like they belong at the university.
For many participants, this sense of belonging is the most powerful gift the programs offer.
“I can be a leader too”
“I used to be afraid of public speaking. I still get nervous, but now I feel much more confident,” said ICE member Iman Jarkas (a proud Lebanese and Métis student with roots in Fort Chipewyan on Treaty 8 Territory, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in the Faculty of Science). Many students experienced public speaking for the first time through the program’s collaboration with Anishinabe Toastmasters and its Speech-craft series—building confidence, clarity and a stronger voice.
Similarly, Victoria Stagg—a Saulteaux student from Lundar with strong ties to Pinaymootang First Nation who is about to begin her Master of Arts in Anthropology—shared:
“The program helped me affirm who I am—as an Indigenous woman and a future leader. It gave me the language to tell my story with pride and taught me to recognize strength in others too.” – Victoria Stagg (ICE 2024-2025)
FONTINE, an independent folk-pop artist from Winnipeg with Nehiyaw Iskwew (Cree woman) roots, who joined as a special guest performer. All ICE participants received program jackets, while Bison Spirit members are distinguished by their navy blue cardigans.
Angie Bruce, Vice-President (Indigenous), also delivered powerful remarks, emphasizing that Indigenous leaders often walk in two worlds: one rooted in education and career, and the other in culture and community.
“Find your voice. Own your space,” she said. “You are meant to be here.” She encouraged students to lead with authenticity, reminding them that there is no single way to look, speak, or act like a leader.
“Real leaders are those who stay true to themselves.”
——Angie Bruce, UM Vice-President (Indigenous)
From left to right: Associate Vice-President (Indigenous) Christine Cyr, Vice-President (Indigenous) Angie Bruce, and Elder Carl Stone.
From the Individual to the Collective
Unlike conventional leadership training that focuses on personal achievement, ICE centers relationship-building and collective growth.
“ICE taught me that leadership isn’t just about improving yourself—it’s about reaching out, caring about others, and learning from their experiences,” said Métis architecture student Jory Thomas.
Weekly gatherings became essential touchstones for many. “ICE helped me overcome imposter syndrome and slowly build meaningful friendships,” said Muriel Houle, Anishinaabe from Long Plain and Sandy Bay First Nations (BA 2026).
“I want to thank our funders. Being part of ICE this year has helped me grow so much—as a student, a leader, and a person,” said Holly Typliski, a Red River Métis student from Selkirk currently studying in the Interdisciplinary Health Program within the Faculty of Health Sciences.
Typliski reflected further: “As a member of the student union, when I look at who I was last year and who I am now, I see how much I’ve grown through ICE. I’ve learned how to bring people together, how to foster collaboration. And coming from a science-heavy background, it was so refreshing to turn off that ‘science memorization brain’ and learn in a completely different way—through stories, culture, and new friendships.”
Student speaker Safron Blais added,
“ICE taught me to accept myself and connect with others from that place. You don’t have to be perfect. Just show up—we’ll be there in circle, waiting for you.”
Left and right: Mackaila Bruce-Tapley, Bison Spirit speaker and Sundancer who has taken part in ceremonies since she was 12. Center: Safron Blais, speaker for the ICE program.
Associate Vice-President (Indigenous) Christine Cyr reflected on the program’s origins: “We started in 2009 with $150 of our own money, some snacks, and five students sitting in Kali Storm’s kitchen talking about Indigenous leadership.”
“Our students come to university not because they’re weak, but because they’re strong. Our role—then and now—is to see that strength and lift it up.”
A group photo of students, Elders, and staff from the Indigenous leadership programs following the annual gathering.
Stepping out of the Circle: Leadership that lasts
For more than a decade, Indigenous student leadership programming at UM has nurtured not just individual growth, but a sustaining force of community-driven leadership. Every story shared, every circle formed, becomes a site of listening, responsibility and authentic growth.
Justin Rasmussen, Director of Indigenous Leadership Programming, noted, “One of the most meaningful changes we see is when students start to truly believe in themselves. Many arrive with a sense that they don’t belong—but they leave proud of who they are, ready to lead and speak out.” He hopes to expand mentorship pathways that connect students with Elders, alumni, professionals, and community leaders to carry this strength forward.
These circles don’t end when the programs do. As students have shown, they carry their confidence and growth into classrooms, communities and careers—becoming guides for others and helping light new paths.
This initiative is generously supported through the Mastercard Foundation’s EleV Program in partnership with the Indigenous Leadership Programming team in the Office of the Vice-President (Indigenous).
If you’re looking for ways to support Indigenous excellence at UM, please see more options online.