Graduate Spotlight: From Indigenous Social Work to Law School, Kailey O'Bumsawin

(June 5, 2026)– Among the remarkable graduates celebrating their convocation at Laurentian University is Kailey O'Bumsawin, an Indigenous Social Work student whose transformative time on campus has set her on an ambitious new path: law school.

Originally from Sudbury and a graduate of Confederation Secondary School, O’Bumsawin journey to her true calling wasn’t linear. She initially began her post-secondary education in nursing, but quickly realized it wasn't for her. Recognizing her natural instinct to advocate for others, O’Bumsawin’s family reminded her that she was "a social worker at heart." This insight led her to Laurentian’s unique program—a choice that allowed her to reconnect with her heritage, rooted in the Odanak First Nation community near Quebec.

"At the beginning of our classes, a lot of times we would smudge, and every single class we did a check-in and check-out," O’Bumsawin says, noting how accessible and accommodating the faculty were. "Our teachers really cared. I felt supported and loved more as a person instead of just a student. They always made sure to tell us things they appreciated about us, like our smiles or our laughter. I was able to go to school and just be a full person gaining experience, instead of having to be perfect and fit into a box."

During her four years, O’Bumsawin made a profound impact beyond the classroom. Believing that a university experience is what you make of it, she immersed herself in student life and advocacy. She served as the volunteer coordinator for Pride Laurentian, participated in Model Parliament, worked with the Consent is Simple Action Team, and the campus equity committee.

Her experiential learning placements further shaped her perspective. While a placement at the Elizabeth Fry Society helped build her professional confidence, a challenging second placement taught her invaluable lessons in conflict resolution and self-advocacy. Throughout it all, faculty members like Dr. Joey-Lynn Wabie provided deep mentorship, transitioning from professor to research project collaborator, and lifelong friend.

Now, O’Bumsawin is preparing for her next major chapter: heading to Ottawa this fall to attend the University of Ottawa. She has been accepted into a highly competitive joint program that combines law school with a Master’s of International Affairs. Additionally, she has secured a Teacher’s Assistant position at Carleton University, where she hopes to assist with Indigenous courses and pay her knowledge forward.

"The skills I learned from this program and the Laurentian community are going to take me far in my law career," says O’Bumsawin. "As a lawyer, so many clients are at the worst point of their life. Having the skills of communication and compassion is incredibly valuable."

When asked what advice she would give to incoming Indigenous students, O’Bumsawin emphasizes taking advantage of cultural hubs like the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre and the Indigenous Student Circle, while also remembering that they are multi-dimensional. "Culture is wonderful, but it’s okay if not every single activity you do is focused on culture. You’re allowed to do other things, too."

Ultimately, O’Bumsawin hopes her journey inspires future students to recognize the power of their own voices. "It's your school, and you have the right to have it reflect the needs of the students," she says. "Get involved, stand up, and change things."