NAHO National Aboriginal Role Model wins prestigious health research award

OTTAWA — Julie Bull, a National Aboriginal Role Model in 2007, was the Canadian recipient of the Hart Hansen Award at a ceremony at the 14th International Congress on Circumpolar Health held in Yellowknife, NT.

Bull is working on an interdisciplinary Ph.D. from Dalhousie University with a focus on Aboriginal research ethics. The mission of the Hart Hansen Award is to increase cooperation in circumpolar health research and education by mentoring and encouraging emerging researchers and health care workers.

"It was an honour to have such recognition from the Canadian Society of Circumpolar Health. There are so many aspiring young health researchers in Canada deserving of this and I feel privileged to receive this award,” Bull explained. “It is through the support of established researchers, health workers and organizations who have the passion to mentor young people that will see generations of Aboriginal youth not only working in the health field, but taking control of the research, policy and practice."

Originally from Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador, Bull is also an active volunteer and has helped out in her hometown with events such as the Métis Friends and Family Day, and has been a team captain for both the Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life and the Horizons’ Spring into Action challenge.

“How wonderful that our young people are excelling in many fields, especially in the area of health research.” said National Aboriginal Spokesperson and internationally renowned performer Lucie Idlout. “What a great role model Julie is for all of the Aboriginal youth who are interested in the health field. She is truly an inspiration!”

The National Aboriginal Role Model Program celebrates the accomplishments of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth aged 13 to 30. Now in its 25th year, and the fifth year as a project of the National Aboriginal Health Organization, the Program inspires Aboriginal youth to strive to reach their goals. Each year, 12 Aboriginal role models are nominated by their peers. They are selected for their achievements, leadership, and innovation.

Throughout the year, the role models will attend celebrations, school functions, workshops, and conferences to share their stories with other Aboriginal youth.

Established in 2000, the National Aboriginal Health Organization is an Aboriginal-designed and –controlled organization dedicated to the advancing the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals, families and communities.