ӣ��Ӱ��

Choosing UVic

Growing up along the shores of the Comox Valley, Dani Bilozaze-Lewis was always fascinated with the ocean, especially its larger marine animals. Her time spent paddleboarding and sailing fueled her curiosity and sparked her passion to explore a career in marine biology.

Choosing a university was no small task for Dani. She had many factors to consider—moving away from home, the financial realities of post-secondary education and which path would best suit persuing her STEM dreams.

Dani felt that while there was no perfect choice, UVic was the best fit for her.

Deciding to go to UVic allowed Dani to stay close to her support system, her family in the Comox Valley. She was excited to discover the university’s excellent marine biology program, which aligned with her deep-rooted passion for the ocean.

Dani also prioritized choosing a university with a strong Indigenous community and one that took meaningful steps towards decolonization and reconciliation.

Receiving the award

Dani’s family is Dene Sųłiné of Cold Lake First Nations in Alberta, so the importance of culture and language was a pillar in Dani’s life growing up. She was already familiar with the UVic campus as her mom, Danita Bilozaze, received her master’s in Indigenous Language Revitalization in 2020. 

Before starting her first year at UVic, Dani found out she received the Joyce Foundation Award. Overcome with emotion, this affirmed that Dani had chosen the best path for her dreams to become a reality.

This award lifted the financial stress of starting university, allowing her to begin her education journey with confidence. With this support, Dani could focus on what is most important as a first-year student—learning and building meaningful connections within her community.

Navigating her learning disability, Dani already dealt with time constraints as she struggled with studying and taking longer to complete assignments. This award removed the burden of having to balance a part time job with school. “If I had to get a part time job to support my studies, I do not think I would be able to complete this degree,” she says.

Navigating a new chapter

Throughout high school, Dani shined bright as a student. She was consistently among the top 10 students and won the Best and Brightest Award for the highest achieving student in grade 12.

Her talents extended beyond academics—she gained national recognition for her traditional beadwork, raised money for humanitarian causes and was involved in sports like basketball and sailing.

Transitioning into university life was a challenge as Dani quickly learned how to become independent living on her own. Living on campus residence in the Indigenous Living Learning Community (LLC), provided her with support as she navigated this new chapter.

This award is renewable, so it will continue to support Dani with her tuition as she returns living on campus in the Indigenous LLC this semester.

Dani also found vital support at the First Peoples House on campus. There, she could speak to Elders, academic advisors and receive tutoring. These resources helped her immensely, giving her guidance and encouragement throughout the semester.

Looking ahead

Going into second year, Dani is excited to explore a wider range of her interests through different science courses. Returning to residence, she hopes to meet new people in her LLC and deepen her connections at the First People’s House.