Geraldine Manossa

Geraldine Manossa is from Bigstone Cree Nation, Treaty 8, and a Ph.D. student at the University of British Columbia-Okanagan.  Her research focuses on developing land-inclusive, land-informed health frameworks in collaboration with Indigenous communities and health partners, aligning with the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The main goal of her research is to create impactful, equitable, and sustainable health-land-focused reconciliation efforts guided by Indigenous knowledge systems. Her M.A. focused on the significant role of Cree Storytelling in preserving community knowledge through cultural-traditional artistic expressions. Being an English speaker, Geraldine deeply values learning the Cree language and teachings from Cree Elders.  Before academia, Geraldine worked extensively with Indigenous communities and organizations, honouring community-driven approaches guided by Indigenous protocols and leadership.   

Outside of academia, Geraldine is passionate about attending traditional cultural events, mentoring Indigenous artists, and serving on the board of the Dancers of Damelahamid. Such experiences align with the Scholarship program’s focus on developing engaged leaders. Geraldine is eager to expand her leadership skills and qualities, particularly within an environment that upholds the principles of respect and inclusivity with scholars from diverse lived experiences and research backgrounds. Additionally, she looks forward to learning leadership strategies from Mentors and Fellows and gaining insights and ways to navigate complex systems and situations that may arise in her research, community, institution and beyond.