Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to honour the children who never returned home, survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. It is also a day to reflect on actions we can take – individually and collectively – to advance reconciliation and create a more equitable future.
At the Registered Nurses Foundation of BC (RNFBC), we are reminded of the responsibility we hold to support Indigenous learners on their educational journeys. Access to bursaries and scholarships is not only about financial aid – it is about removing systemic barriers and fostering pathways to leadership in healthcare.
First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nurse Education Bursary
This year, RNFBC received 75 applications for the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nurse Education Bursary – a powerful demonstration of the determination and resilience of Indigenous students preparing to serve their communities as nurses. Each application represents a story of commitment: to care, to healing, and to healthier communities across British Columbia.
However, the need far exceeds available resources. While we celebrate the growing interest from Indigenous students, we also recognize the funding gap that leaves many qualified applicants without support.
Why it matters
Supporting Indigenous nurses promotes diversity and inclusion within the nursing workforce and ensures students have the resources to achieve their educational goals. It strengthens culturally safe care, helps address the nursing shortage in BC, and honours the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
A call to action
On Truth and Reconciliation Day, we invite our community to help close this gap. Every donation directed to the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nurse Education Bursary directly support students striving to complete their education, enter the workforce, and strengthen healthcare in their communities.
Supporting Indigenous nurses is reconciliation in action. Together, we can turn aspiration into achievement and words into meaningful change.
Donate to the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nurse Education Bursary today