Waachay, my name is Catherine Cheechoo. I hold the education portfolio for the NAN Decade Youth Council. I am originally from Moose Factory, and a member of the Moose Cree First Nation. My parents are Earl and Christine Cheechoo. I have three siblings, Carla (20), Patrick (18), and Mary (13). I also have one extremely adorable nephew named Evan!

Currently, I am residing in Thunder Bay to work on my post-secondary education. I have completed a diploma program in Aboriginal Law and Advocacy at Neeganewin College, and I am now working towards a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science.

When the opportunity came to be apart of the council, I jumped at the chance because I saw it as a way to create better opportunities for my fellow peers and youth. Through work on the youth council, one of my personal goals is to empower youth to take action on their own to create opportunities and find resources ans support to attain their own and individual community goals.

The issues that concern me are the low self-esteem of youth; suicide; lack of support for youth in their communities; teen pregnancy; alcohol and drug abuse; and the area of education.

Receiving a education is one of the most valuable assests a person can have. Education will give you opportunities and options that are unlimited. As education chair, my responsibilities include:

• Gathering information regarding scholarships, and/or grants for Aboriginal students
• Reseach online education sources
• Compile a list of native programs offered in schools around the region
• Network with education authorities and affiliates that work with tribal councils.
• Advocate and promote staying in school, and obtaining a high school diploma.