Image courtesy of First Nations University of Canada. Photo of the original artwork on canvas that was later digitized into a large-scale vinyl wall wrap.
"If there was to be a depiction of First Nations University of Canada’s story, we knew it had to come from our students. They are the living voice of this university."
— Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann, President, First Nations University of Canada
A wave of colour and creativity now brightens the halls of the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv), where student and alumni artists have come together to celebrate culture, connection, and community through art. The Making of mino-bimaadiziwin at FNUniv: Our Story Through Our Students’ Art brings together visual art, poetry, music, Indigenous languages, and dance to share the university’s story—its roots, growth, and hopes for generations to come.
Supported by the Mastercard Foundation EleV Program, this initiative highlights the power of Indigenous creativity and collaboration. Guided by Elders Maria Campbell, Sol Sanderson, Elsie Sanderson, and Shelley Belhumeur, students and alumni created works inspired by tradition and contemporary experiences, envisioning how art continues to shape FNUniv’s identity. These pieces were later digitized into a large-scale vinyl wall wrap at their Regina Campus, with future murals planned for their Saskatoon, Northern, and nēwoskan campuses.
This mural is part of a growing network of collaborative art projects developed by EleV partners with Indigenous youth and communities across Canada. Each piece celebrates the creativity, innovation, and leadership of Indigenous youth, while demonstrating how Indigenous storytelling can reshape narratives and inspire change.
Why It Matters:
Art and storytelling play a powerful role in shifting perspectives, sparking hope, and inspiring action across generations.
Collaboration between students and Elders strengthens identity, belonging, and intergenerational connection.
The piece reflects the impact of Indigenous-led education and culturally grounded learning.
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About the Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation is a Canadian Foundation and one of the world's largest foundations, with a mission to advance education and financial inclusion. It works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. The Foundation is an independent organization and separate from the company. Its policies, operations and programs are determined by the Foundation's Board of Directors and leadership. For more information please visit mastercardfdn.org.
