We Believe: Jessie Anthony

I am a proud member of the Onondaga Nation Beaver clan from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory in Ontario.

My journey has taken me from my homelands of the Haudenosaunee people to the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish people, where I now live, work, play and create.

I am deeply humbled to share my story – a story shaped by resilience, fueled by the strength of my ancestors and enriched by the transformative power of education.

I am the daughter of a Residential School survivor, and I, too, am a survivor of the day school system. Growing up, the path to university seemed like uncharted territory, a distant dream. It wasn’t something tangible. It wasn’t until I turned 29 that I decided to embark on a new chapter of my life – a chapter that led me to CapU’s Indigenous Digital Filmmaking program. This program catalyzed my growth and success in the field.

Today, I am a filmmaker and a testament to the incredible impact that support can have on an individual’s journey. I’m grateful for the support of the Paul & Catherine Dangerfield Women’s Bursary and want to thank Doreen Manuel and the entire faculty at Capilano University for fostering an environment where Indigenous voices can thrive. Their mentorship and guidance have been invaluable to me.

My journey would not have been possible without the generous support of the donors who contributed to the bursaries and scholarships I was fortunate to access.

These financial aids were more than just funds; they were lifelines that allowed me to focus on my academic studies without the constant worry of everyday bills. They alleviated stress and allowed me to return to Ontario when needed – a crucial connection to my roots and family.

I do not come from a family with “extra money;” my parents have worked hard their entire lives to make ends meet, so in times of grief, it becomes hard to access the means. When my grandmother was ill, I was able to utilize the bursaries and funding that allowed me to share precious moments with her in the final days before she departed from this world.

As a student, navigating the financial aspects of such a situation proved challenging. The financial strain was real and securing the necessary funds wasn’t a straightforward endeavour.

Today, I am a living testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship and the unwavering support of a community. I urge everyone to consider the profound impact their support can have on someone’s dreams and aspirations.

These bursaries are not merely financial transactions, but investments in the future. They ensure that the flame of education continues to burn brightly in the hearts of women, BIPOC, and especially Indigenous students, illuminating paths that were once obscured by historical injustices. I encourage everyone to pay it forward. Let us be the architects of dreams, the builders of bridges and the champions of education.

Together, we can create a legacy of empowerment, resilience and opportunity. By donating and supporting bursaries, we are shaping individual destinies and the future of our communities, nations and world.

I have deep gratitude for all those who have supported me on this journey. I invite you to join me in making someone else’s dreams come true. Let us ensure that education becomes a beacon of hope for future generations.

Nyawenha, thank you.

Jessie Anthony is a graduate of CapU’s Indigenous Digital Filmmaking program and Bachelor of Motion Picture Arts program. In her third year of the Motion Picture Arts program, Jessie produced her debut film, “Brother, I Cry,” earning her the B.C. Emerging Filmmaker Award and Best Screenwriting Award at the Vancouver International Women’s Film Festival, the Best Direction Award at the Leo Awards, and several other honours.