Mitakye Owasin Award in Pharmacy: A Symbol of Generosity and Support

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, scholarships play a pivotal role in empowering students to pursue their dreams. The Mitakye Owasin Award in Pharmacy is a shining example of this noble initiative, created through the benevolence of alumnus Jarron Yee (BSP '06). This prestigious scholarship, set to debut in the 2022-2023 academic year, stands as a beacon of hope for Indigenous students in the college, propelling them towards their PharmD degree with a financial boost of $1,500 annually.

The name "Mitakye Owasin" holds deep significance, translating to "All My Relations" or “We are All Related” in Lakota Sioux, underscoring the communal spirit and interconnectedness embedded in Indigenous cultures. Jarron Yee's commitment to fostering a sense of community and providing support for Indigenous students in the field of pharmacy is truly commendable.

One remarkable aspect of the Mitakye Owasin Award is its thoughtful logo design, which serves as a visual representation of the scholarship's values. The logo seamlessly blends traditional Indigenous symbols with modern elements, reflecting the intersection of heritage and education.

The central motif of the logo is based on a medicine wheel, an iconic symbol in many Indigenous cultures, symbolizing balance, harmony, and the interconnectedness of all life. The four quadrants of the wheel represent the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of well-being, emphasizing the holistic approach to healthcare. The wheel is adorned with vibrant colours, each carrying its own significance, symbolizing various aspects of healing and growth. The logo also incorporates elements from the world of pharmacy, the mortar and pestle to emphasize the scholarship's specific focus on pharmacy students, seamlessly merging tradition with the contemporary context of pharmaceutical education.

The Mitakye Owasin Award's logo serves as a powerful reminder of the scholarship's mission to bridge cultural heritage and academic pursuit. It is not merely a symbol; it encapsulates the essence of support, unity, and the shared responsibility of nurturing the next generation of Indigenous pharmacists.

As the Mitakye Owasin Award scholarship takes flight, it is not just a monetary award; it is a testament to the impact one individual's generosity can have on an entire community. Jarron Yee's commitment to creating opportunities for Indigenous students in pharmacy is a commendable example of paying it forward, and the Mitakye Owasin Award is sure to leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and educational excellence in its wake.