Each fall, the UBC Faculty of Medicine welcomes more than 5,000 new and returning learners — including future doctors, midwives, researchers, audiologists and more — who will go on to transform health and wellbeing for diverse communities across British Columbia and beyond.
The Faculty of Medicine recently held a series of interviews to highlight incoming and returning learners, including Cheyenne Blackbird, a second-year Master of Health Administration student. Read her full story below.
Hometown: Keeseekoowenin First Nations, Treaty 2, Man.
Program: Master of Health Administration
Year in Program: 2
What inspired you to pursue your program?
As a nurse, I loved shaping a patient’s care experience. Following a serious workplace injury, I transitioned from a First Nations healthcare provider to a patient – where I witnessed the discrimination, racism and systemic barriers that Indigenous peoples encounter accessing healthcare.
The experience shifted my perspective on care, equity and the responsibility of public systems that influence health outcomes for Indigenous peoples. It opened my eyes to how deeply embedded colonial structures are within the healthcare system and how they continue to cause harm.
This was a pivotal moment in my life that profoundly strengthened my commitment and resolve to help dismantle systemic racism through intentional actions. I chose the Master of Health Administration (MHA) program to expand upon my capacity and to gain the knowledge, skills and relationships needed to engage in transformative leadership.
Why did you choose UBC?
After my transition from clinical practice, I completed UBC’s Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Public Health program in early 2025. That experience affirmed UBC’s commitment to anti-racism, decolonization and Indigenous-led education. I chose to continue my education here because of the alignment with my values and vision for systemic change. The emphasis on equity-driven leadership and culturally safe practice resonates with my lived experience and advocacy work.
I am confident the MHA will equip me with the knowledge, skills and relationships required to transform and decolonize B.C.’s healthcare system in a good way, rooted in anti-racism, cultural safety and reconciliation.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
I am most excited to deepen relationships with faculty and peers who are committed to equitable and transformative change. I am looking forward to engaging in supportive learning environments that challenge colonial norms and allow me to expand my capacity for advocacy. I hope to co-create spaces that foster cultural safety, honour lived experiences, and uplift and uphold Indigenous voices within healthcare. I’m especially keen to apply the teachings and reflections gained throughout the MHA to institutional structures to work towards meaningful change.
Find more interviews with learners and interesting FoM stats here: https://www.med.ubc.ca/news/back-to-school-2025/