Education That Inspires Generations

How One Teacher’s Journey Inspires the Next Generation of Indigenous Learners

When Samantha Beynon left her community at just 18 years old, she carried with her the dream of becoming a teacher. What she could not have known then was how her journey would grow to inspire a generation of young Indigenous learners across British Columbia.

Today, as a teacher, author, and PhD student at the University of Victoria, she reflects on her path with humility and pride. Her achievements are not only her own. They are a testament to perseverance, community support, and the transformative power of education funding through programs like the BC First Nations Student Scholarship and Bursaries.

Overcoming Early Challenges

Samantha’s education journey began with obstacles that many students can relate to. As a child, she struggled with literacy and math and often felt disconnected from what she was learning. The classroom materials did not reflect her community or culture, and she rarely saw herself represented in the lessons.

Still, she held onto her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher. That dream was about more than a career. It was about helping Indigenous children see their cultures and stories reflected in education.

After moving away from home, she became a young mother while pursuing her studies. Balancing parenting and post-secondary education was not easy, but she stayed focused on her goal. She wanted to show her children that education could open doors and strengthen identity.

Finding Strength Through Support

The financial realities of higher education are challenging for many students, and even more so for those raising a family. Tuition, childcare, housing, and daily expenses can make post-secondary education feel out of reach.

That is where the BC First Nations Student Scholarship and Bursaries Program came in. For Samantha, this support was life-changing.

“The financial support from NRT was huge,” she shared. “It allowed me to raise my babies and continue my education. Without that help, I do not think I could have made it this far.”

Scholarships do more than cover costs. They represent belief and encouragement. They tell students that their communities value their goals and want to see them succeed.

Becoming a Teacher and an Author

After years of study, Samantha achieved her dream of becoming a teacher. Standing in her own classroom, she realized how far she had come—from struggling with literacy to teaching children to read and learn with confidence.

But as she began to teach, she noticed something missing. Many of the books and learning materials in her classroom did not accurately represent Indigenous knowledge or history. In particular, there were few resources that explained potlatches, an important cultural practice that had been banned for many years.

She decided to write what she could not find. Her second book, Celebrating Potlatches, tells the story of a young boy learning about potlatches from his papa. Inspired by her great-grandfather, William Bainen, the book helps children understand the beauty and importance of potlatches through colourful illustrations and simple, engaging storytelling.

“I wanted to make something that was fun, accurate, and easy for children to understand,” Samantha said. “Growing up, most stories about Indigenous people were either sad or historical. While those stories matter, I also want children to celebrate who they are.”

The launch of her book at the Royal BC Museum was a moment of pride and reflection. It was proof that stories of joy and cultural strength deserve just as much space in classrooms as stories of struggle.

Education as Reconciliation

Samantha’s journey highlights a truth that many Indigenous educators emphasize: education is reconciliation in action. When Indigenous students have access to education, they bring their languages, histories, and worldviews into spaces that have not always welcomed them.

“Having that financial support and having our children get the chance to attend post-secondary school is important for reconciliation,” she said. “It is how we move forward for the next generations.”

Through programs like the BC First Nations Student Scholarship and Bursaries, students across British Columbia are building brighter futures. They are becoming teachers, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders who shape how their communities grow.

A Legacy of Learning

Now, as Samantha begins her PhD journey, her story continues to unfold. Her success is not just about earning degrees but about creating representation and hope for Indigenous students who will come after her.

Her books are helping children across BC learn that education can be both joyful and rooted in culture. Her life is proof that support, determination, and cultural pride can transform challenges into opportunities.

Every scholarship recipient represents a ripple of impact that reaches far beyond one person. When students are supported, their families, classrooms, and communities thrive.