Joel Cardinal
Bachelor of Arts, International Studies

Pursuing my degree in International Studies at Simon Fraser University over the past year has exposed me to the diversity of First Nations cultures present on the West Coast. In an attempt to keep connected to my roots, I applied for the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program (AYIP) last spring and was offered a position in the program. My intention is not only to be an Aboriginal voice in government but to integrate my experiences as a Cree youth to the projects I will be involved in.

Pushing back my graduation one year in order to pursue this AYIP position has allowed me to join a group of 25 Aboriginal youth for a 12 month internship with the British Columbia government. Our internship begins with a nine month placement in a ministry followed by a three month placement with an Aboriginal organization.

The AYIP program is designed to increase leadership capacity, education and career opportunities for Aboriginal youth. Throughout our internship year, the Aboriginal youth interns contribute to several important projects and initiatives, including developing youth engagement strategies, researching policy initiatives, creating diversity workshops, and assisting with various communications strategies and approaches.

Placements are specific to each intern’s interests and abilities. My current aspiration includes law school, as I am interested in Indigenous rights and care about strengthening Indigenous knowledge in contemporary justice systems. I was therefore, pleased to be placed with the Victim Services and Crime Prevention Division of the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. Working primarily in the Crime Prevention Unit, I have been assigned to the Division’s Restorative Justice Program. My involvement in this area has given me a sense of connection to my First Nations roots, as restorative justice is closely linked to Indigenous values and traditions. In addition, my passion for international Indigenous issues coupled with the learning I am gaining of restorative justice practices is helping me see new possibilities for my future focus in the field of law.

The new understanding I am gaining from within the government system in addition to my perspective as a First Nations person will benefit both my own career and also the community I serve. I am grateful to Saddle Lake Education Authority for supporting my education in this way as I now have the opportunity to contribute my current skills to this AYIP placement.

Joel Cardinal, Intern for the Ministry of Public Safety & Solicitor General, BC Government