Youth Advocate and Fancy Shawl Dancer,

Kayleigh is proud to be from the Whitecap Dakota First Nation. A recent high school graduate, Kayleigh currently resides in Moose Jaw but plans to attend university this fall. As a baby, Kayleigh was given her traditional name—Beautiful Thunder Voice. Today, she uses this voice to share her personal story of intergenerational trauma and to raise awareness of issues that affect many Indigenous people. She is passionate about trying to make a difference by sharing what reconciliation looks like to her. A nominee in the youth category for the FSIN Strength of Our Women Awards, Kayleigh often speaks at high schools and the University of Regina and was one of 16 youth chosen from across Canada to attend RCMP Depot. She is also the recipient of the City of Moose Jaw Heritage Award for her efforts in compiling an impressive archive of materials related to the history of First Nations in Moose Jaw. She has been a vital part of the committee that is currently trying to get the former Wild Animal Park land renamed to reflect the Indigenous peoples who originally inhabited the land. She hopes to someday have it declared a heritage site. Most recently, Kayleigh was the Saskatchewan Honoree for Imagine a Canada with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, for her submission that told part of her journey and in honour to The Missing and murdered Indigenous women. Kayleigh is also a fancy shawl dancer and loves helping young girls learn. Kayleigh has accomplished much in her 18 years; however, her greatest honour is to be with and learn from Elders and residential school survivors. She hopes to use this knowledge to influence change towards true reconciliation and to stand up and use her voice in a good way. Kayleigh is so thankful for the people who have helped her and who have given her so many opportunities.