Indigenous Athlete of the Month: Jayden Thompson
Basketball, volleyball, badminton, and football - Jayden Thompson of Pine Creek First Nation does it all! Currently a grade 10 student at Minegoziibe Anishinabe School, Jayden has already established himself as a leader on and off the court, demonstrating dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his community.
Jayden participates in a range of sports, including volleyball, basketball, and badminton, representing the Minegoziibe Anishinabe School in junior varsity volleyball and basketball. His work ethic is unparalleled; he shows up to every practice ready to give his best, and his academic performance reflects that same dedication, as he consistently earns all his credits. Jayden's character shines through in his desire to see his teammates succeed, often prioritizing their achievements over personal accolades.
Rooted deeply in his culture, Jayden carries the teachings of his mother, who has instilled in him the values of hard work and integrity. These lessons have shaped his approach to both sports and life, allowing him to navigate challenges with grace and determination. Jayden remains focused on living a healthy lifestyle, consciously avoiding bad habits and embodying the spirit of a positive role model for his peers.
August 2024 marked a significant milestone in Jayden's athletic career as he participated in the Manitoba Summer Games, representing the U16 West basketball team. As the only grade 10 athlete on the roster, Jayden excelled on the court, showcasing his talent by scoring 17 points in a single game. His performance led to his selection to attend the inaugural National Indigenous Basketball Camp hosted in September 2024 on the Tsuut'ina Nation in Alberta, further emphasizing his potential as an emerging star. Back at home, Jayden led his junior varsity basketball team in Swan River as a grade nine player, averaging an impressive 29 points per game.
His hard work and skill did not go unnoticed in football either, as he was nominated for the Rookie of the Year in the Rural Manitoba Football League and earned the same honour with the Swan River football team.
In addition to these accolades, Jayden was also appointed captain of the U14 basketball team at the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) in Halifax 2023, showcasing his leadership abilities and commitment to fostering teamwork among his peers.
As he prepares for another school year, Jayden is eager to continue pursuing both his academic and athletic goals. With aspirations to further excel in sports while maintaining his academic achievements, Jayden is set on making a positive impact in his community and beyond. In recognizing Jayden Thompson as our Indigenous Athlete of the Month, we celebrate not just his athletic excellence, but also his commitment to his values and the success of those around him. We look forward to witnessing all that he will accomplish in the future.
Indigenous Community Champion of the Month: Samantha Powderhorn
This month, we shine a spotlight on an inspiring member of the Sayisi Dene First Nation, Samantha Powderhorn. As a day school survivor and daughter of residential school survivors, Samantha's journey is a testament to resilience, healing, and transformation. With a heart full of hope and a passion for helping others, she is committed to inspiring Indigenous communities to break cycles of trauma and embrace healthier lifestyles.
Samantha's journey to wellness began as she faced significant barriers to her health, including struggles with homelessness, alcoholism, and even thyroid cancer. In the midst of these challenges, she discovered running-a powerful tool for both physical and mental healing. In just one year, Samantha completed an impressive four half marathons and one full marathon, all while training on her own. This remarkable achievement not only highlights her dedication but also symbolizes her commitment to personal growth and resilience.
Recently, Samantha made a bold decision to leave her finance job and pursue studies in First Nations addictions and mental health. This transition reflects her deep desire to give back to her community and support others on their healing journeys. She embodies the spirit of optimism, which she credits for creating a healthier lifestyle. By changing her mindset, Samantha has not only transformed her own life but also seeks to inspire others to do the same.
Samantha's impact extends beyond her personal journey. As a featured speaker at the 4th Annual Indigenous Women & Girls Run, she shared her story and highlighted the importance of fitness in overcoming adversity. Her presence at this event was a celebration of her commitment to improving her life for herself and her family, and it resonated deeply with attendees. Recognizing her dedication, she has been invited to speak across Canada, where she shares her experiences and encourages others to harness the power of fitness and running.
Samantha's story is not just about personal triumph; it is a call to action for Indigenous communities. She believes that by fostering a culture of health and wellness, individuals can reclaim their narratives and break free from the cycles of trauma that have historically impacted their lives. Her journey emphasizes that healing is possible and that change begins with a single step-whether it's on a running trail or in life.
In celebrating Samantha Powderhorn as our Indigenous Community Champion of the Month, we honour her bravery, commitment, and the inspiration she brings to her community. Her story is a beacon of hope, encouraging others to pursue their own paths to healing and to embrace the power of movement, connection, and positivity. Samantha is not only running marathons; she's running towards a brighter future for herself, her family, and all Indigenous peoples.
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We acknowledge and respect that the MASRC is based on lands shared between peoples, the land of the Anishinabe & Cree, on Treaty One Territory and on the Homeland of the Red River Métis. Being an organization that travels throughout Manitoba, we also acknowledge and respect all lands and treaties we operate on, including Treaty 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 10 as well as the Dakota Nations.
