Celebrating Indigenous excellence

Ten members of the Indigenous campus community at UM are being recognized as part of National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations for leading transformational change and weaving Indigenous knowledges into all they do.

Among them is Antonina Kandiurin, a proud Kischewaskahikan Ininew Iskwew (York Factory Cree woman) from Churchill, Manitoba and student in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. She is being recognized for her commitment to making healthcare more efficient, safe and accessible for Indigenous peoples.

Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at age 16, she experienced the deep inequities and harmful gaps in northern healthcare firsthand. Having just completed her first year of medical school, she’s turning that experience into purpose. Driven by a commitment to improve care in northern remote communities, Kandiurin is on a path to become the physician she once needed.

Antonina Kandiurin, 2025 Student Honouree, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences

It is heartwarming to be honoured by the community that has grounded me. I’m so grateful for those who have uplifted me over the years from close friends, family, classmates, professors, support staff and my community back home in Churchill.

Antonina Kandiurin

Justin Rasmussen, a proud Red River Métis Citizen and Director of Indigenous Leadership Programming, is a steady force behind programs like the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment and Bison Spirit Indigenous Leadership.

His natural ability to create inclusive and empowering spaces inspires the next generation of leaders and builds a stronger sense of belonging for Indigenous students across UM campuses.

"I am incredibly honoured to receive this recognition, but I truly do not feel I deserve it on my own," said Rasmussen. "Supporting Indigenous students is a shared effort rooted in community. I accept this award in recognition of all who have worked, and continue to work, toward making the University of Manitoba a place where Indigenous brilliance can be seen and celebrated.”

Justin Rasmussen gives a thumbs up while standing beside Billy the Bison mascot.

Justin Rasmussen, 2025 Staff Honouree and Director of Indigenous Leadership Programming

Now in its ninth year, the tradition of recognizing Honouring the Indigenous Campus Community honourees in a blanketing ceremony continues. The event follows the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations hosted by Ongomiizwin — Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing.

This year’s honourees include six students, two staff, one faculty and one legacy honouree. Their contributions span diverse fields including healthcare, science, education, architecture and more. They are leaders in rematriation and repatriation, champions of social justice and trusted voices within their communities.

Congratulations to the 2025 honourees and Happy Indigenous Peoples Day!

Meet the 2025 Honouring the Indigenous Campus Community Honourees: