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Louis Busch, a PhD candidate in the department of leadership, higher and adult education at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), has from the Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). 

One of SSHRC’s annual Impact Awards, the Talent Award recognizes the outstanding academic achievement of a SSHRC doctoral scholarship, fellowship or postdoctoral fellowship holder.

Busch, a Bear Clan Member of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, was recognized for his work and influence at the intersection of mental health and Indigenous healing practices, while emphasizing the importance of culture.

“It’s an incredible moment,” says Busch. “My journey of learning what it means to be a helper has been mostly on the frontlines, on locked psychiatric inpatient units, in jails, shelters and group homes. But I've always been really interested in systemic change, in the kinds of change that impact communities.”

Associate Professor Jennifer Wemigwans, Busch’s doctoral advisor, says the recognition highlights the importance of centering Indigenous knowledge in the academy.

"I'm so proud of Louis because I think that this is what a great community collaboration can do when you have Indigenous professors in institutions like U of T who are able to advocate for their students and say, ‘Recognize this work, recognize this student,'" Wemigwans says. “This advocacy and support are very important for Indigenous students and for our communities.”