The Jules Lavallee Memorial Bursary recognizes a graduating Indigenous student who has developed/utilized/shared their gifts to fulfill goals and aspirations in relation to their selves, their families, and communities.
This year, eight exceptional graduates were nominated for the Jules Lavallee Memorial Bursary. Two students, Jynx Houle and Rhianna Manningway-Crate, were awarded the bursary.
Jynx Houle is a Grade 12 student at Windsor Park Collegiate (WPC). She is on track to graduate this year, a milestone that reflects her determination, perseverance, and commitment to her future. Jynx has developed clear aspirations for life after high school, with plans to pursue a career as a makeup artist or nail design technician—fields that allow her to express her creativity, independence, and confidence.
Jynx’s journey has been one of courage, resilience, and transformation. For several years, from Grades 7 through 10, attending school was not possible due to significant challenges. Rather than allowing these experiences to define her, Jynx made the brave decision to return to school and reclaim her path. Since then, she has flourished—emerging as a leader, a role model, and a strong, positive presence within her school community.
At WPC, Jynx shows up each day with purpose and strength, inspiring those around her. A central part of her journey has been reconnecting with her culture. Through ceremonies, teachings, and her involvement in the school and divisional Indigenous Youth Leadership group, she has rediscovered a deep sense of identity, belonging, and pride. Culture has become a grounding force in her life—one that she shares generously with others.
Jynx contributes meaningfully to her community in ways that go beyond the classroom. She has supported fellow students by sewing regalia, offering encouragement to peers, and leading through quiet strength and example. Her presence enriches her school community in ways that cannot be measured on paper.
She also finds joy and healing through land-based learning experiences. One of her favourite activities is lowland cranberry picking. Last fall, she and her classmates gathered cranberries and created pickled cranberry ketchup—a project that blended traditional knowledge with community connection. For Jynx, these moments are not just activities; they are integral to her healing, identity, and light.
Jynx has transformed pain into purpose, isolation into leadership, and hardship into strength. She is a role model for other youth and a reminder that reconnecting with culture, community, and education can change lives.
Jynx will continue to use her strength, creativity, and resilience to build a positive future and contribute meaningfully to those around her.
Rhianna Manningway-Crate is a Grade 12 student at Glenlawn Collegiate Institute (GCI). Rhianna's journey reflects strength, resilience, and a deep commitment to her community. From the start of high school, she has shown focus, determination, and a strong belief in the value of education. She approaches her learning with purpose and humility, bringing care and intention to everything she does.
This year, Rhianna demonstrated remarkable strength and empowerment. As a young mother, she stepped away from school to welcome her daughter into the world. When she returned, she did more than continue—she excelled. She successfully completed her coursework, achieved strong results on her provincial exam, and caught up on all missed learning. Her perseverance and dedication are truly inspiring.
Rhianna is a proud member of Fisher River Cree Nation, and her connection to her community is central to who she is. She honours her culture through action—whether competing in canoe races across Manitoba or teaching younger children the skills and history of canoeing. In doing so, she helps ensure that important knowledge and traditions continue to be shared across generations.
Looking ahead, Rhianna has set a powerful and purposeful path. She plans to attend the University of Manitoba to pursue a Bachelor of Science, with the goal of becoming an Obstetrician-Gynecologist serving Northern communities. She hopes to improve access to care for Indigenous women and to be part of a future where culturally safe healthcare is available close to home.
Rhianna is an inspiring young woman who leads with strength, purpose, and heart. Her contributions will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Congratulations to Jynx and Rhianna!