My name is Cheyenne Lafferty, and I am a proud member of the Tłı̨chǫ Nation from Behchokǫ̀, Northwest Territories. I spent my early childhood in my home community before moving to Yellowknife with my family in 2003. Growing up in the North shaped my strong sense of identity, resilience, and connection to community. The values I learned from my family, culture, and the land continue to guide who I am today and the kind of educator I hope to become.

I graduated from École St. Patrick High School in Yellowknife in 2013. After high school, I moved to Camrose, Alberta, to attend the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education in 2018. Physical activity and sport have always been important in my life. Through athletics, I developed discipline, teamwork, leadership skills, and confidence. I believe that movement supports not only physical health but also mental wellness, motivation, and learning.

After completing my degree, I worked with the Indigenous Sports Circle of the Northwest Territories. In this role, I travelled to communities across the territory helping to organize sport and recreation programs for youth. This experience strengthened my passion for working with children and supporting Indigenous youth through positive opportunities. It showed me how sport and recreation can build confidence, create a sense of belonging, and bring communities together.

I am currently living in Kamloops, British Columbia, where I am completing the Bachelor of Education (Elementary) program at Thompson Rivers University. My goal is to become an elementary school teacher who creates a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom where all students feel valued and capable of success. I am especially interested in hands-on learning, culturally responsive teaching, and supporting students’ social and emotional development alongside their academic growth. I hope to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning in every student I teach.

Outside of my studies, I enjoy staying active and spending time outdoors. I like going to the gym, hiking, playing sports, and socializing with friends. These activities help me manage stress, stay healthy, and maintain a positive mindset while building strong relationships and meaningful memories.

I also enjoy taking part in traditional activities that connect me to my culture and community. I participate in traditional crafts such as beading and sewing, which allow me to express creativity while honouring cultural teachings passed down through generations. In addition, I enjoy teaching, playing, and competing in traditional games, including Northern Games and Dene Games. These activities are physically challenging and culturally meaningful, emphasizing strength, resilience, teamwork, and perseverance. Participating in these traditions helps me stay connected to my identity and inspires me to bring cultural knowledge and respect into my future classroom.

As I continue my journey in education, I hope to use my experiences, cultural background, and passion for working with children to make a positive difference. I believe every child deserves encouragement, patience, and opportunities to succeed. I am committed to lifelong learning and to creating classrooms where all students feel respected, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. I am excited to begin this journey and look forward to discovering what my future as a teacher will look like.