Joyce Helston

The Joyce Helston Bursary was created by her daughter Leslie Helston to honour her Mom, a beloved high school French teacher who believed deeply in the power of language and its integral links to culture. By supporting individuals who want to learn or relearn their language with the intent of sharing it with others, through this bursary, Leslie believes they will also reconnect with their culture, knowledge and practices. With language and culture come a sense of self, a sense of place, and a sense of pride. The hope is to instill and spread these essential assets in Indigenous peoples from whom they were stolen over many decades by colonial policies. It is Leslie’s way of giving back, offering respect and supporting reconciliation.

The Joyce Helston Bursary

This award will be distributed to Indigenous students who are attending post-secondary institutions across Canada (i.e. College, University, Technical College, or Apprenticeship Program). Although demonstrated financial need will be the primary consideration, other factors may also be considered (such as involvement in and contribution to the community as a whole and academic merit and performance).

Awards Criteria

Awards Category: Post-Secondary
Deadlines: August 1, November 1, February 1
Program of Study: Indigenous Languages
Level of Study: Any
Indigenous Affiliation: Any