Eel Ground med student gets $40K scholarship

Sarah Cloud-Rome entering 2nd year of med school

Natoaganeg First Nation would like to congratulate one of its members, Sarah Cloud-Romeo on her recent success as she was named one of 20 recipients of this year's $10,000 per year (up to four years) RBC Indigenous Youth Scholarship.

First Nations, Inuit and Métis students from across Canada were considered for the annual award, which recognizes both strong academic performance and community involvement. The award is designed to help reduce the barriers to post-secondary education and training for Canadian Indigenous youth. Recipients will also gain access to mentorship, academic and career planning, tutoring, and work experience or networking opportunities.

Sarah, a second-year medical student at the University of Ottawa, is passionate about providing healthcare to the Indigenous community.

“From work I have done as a crisis line responder providing mental health and addiction support to indigenous communities to leadership positions within my Medical School Indigenous cohort, I feel it is my calling to strive to improve the lives of all Indigenous peoples,” said Cloud-Romeo. “This year I had the profound privilege of participating in uOttawa's "Walk-In-Our-Moccasins" workshop, where we connected with indigenous youth. It was an incredible experience helping them build confidence to believe in their ability.”

Once she completes medical schooling, Sarah hopes to return to her community and use what she has learned to help those who helped get her to where she is today.

“Co-founding and contributing to the Association for Indigenous Students and Medical Learners has been a journey of empowerment, uniting individuals in fostering a supportive environment within the University of Ottawa medical community,” said Cloud-Romeo. “I am passionate about advocating for culturally appropriate care for Indigenous peoples. This passion is a powerful motivator in my decision to become a medical student, and one day a physician. Returning to my First-Nation community as a family physician would be my greatest privilege as it would allow me to serve the people and community that shaped me.”