Chelsea Bannatyne

Title: YU@W Participant

Biography:

Chelsea Bannatyne, I am 21 years old. I identify as an Afro-Indigenous woman. I was born in Winnipeg and raised in the West End. I am in my second year, studying Human Rights and Urban and Inner City Studies and I am expecting to graduate in 2020. I have always had a particular interest in Indigenous studies, conflict resolution, social policy and politics as they interconnect closely to lived experiences with respects to Human Rights.

I am eager to begin the YouthUnited Summer Program because I know this is a rare opportunity for students, like myself, to be directly involved with Community Based Organizations and Community leaders which will allow for meaningful dialogue. This exchange is important for us to create necessary networks and strengthen the existing relationships within our city for genuine strives towards Truth and Reconciliation. I believe Truth and Reconciliation is multifaceted and our active community members working on the front lines are advocates for a comprehensive approach going forward that emphasizes equity and equality and most importantly incudes the Indigenous perspective. This type of hands-on learning is invaluable and excites me as I hope to be equipped with the knowledge necessary to form alliances, and encourage our next generations to be involved and informed in the political discourse.