The Indigenous Medical and Dental Students’ Association (IMDSA) is a group of Indigenous students in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at University of Alberta. The IMDSA is grateful to live and learn on Treaty 6 Territory, a traditional gathering place for diverse Indigenous peoples, including the Cree, Blackfoot, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe, Inuit, Métis, and many others.
Our History
In 2018, a small group of Métis and First Nations medical students, under the guidance of Elders and Tibetha Kimble, then Director of the University of Alberta’s FoMD Indigenous Health program (now Wâpanachakos), collaborated on ways to establish a sense of community and relationship amongst Indigenous students in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry. The first IMDSA constitution was created, with the intention of representation, support during major transition periods, and advocacy. Despite significant barriers, the persistent efforts of our past IMDSA chairs, presidents, and executive team, as well as through support from Faculty and the Medical Student’s Association, positions for the IMDSA within Faculty Curriculum and Admission Committees for the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry were implemented.
Our Mission
Our mission is to represent, encourage, and advocate for future Indigenous healthcare providers while staying grounded in our traditions and teachings. Through a positive narrative, we strive to promote an Indigenous presence in healthcare professions through mentorship and support with career transitions.
Our Work
The IMDSA works within education and curriculum realms to advocate as a student voice in incorporating Indigenous content into Faculty curriculum. The IMDSA supports all Indigenous students on their journey of healing, connects students to cultural supports, and organizes cultural and wellness events for students. Some examples of events we have hosted include a talk from Indigenous Birth Alberta about Indigenous Midwifery in Alberta, beading classes, an Inuit Ways of Life and Sealskin workshop, a talk from the Indigenous Dental Association of Canada (IDAC), bannock making classes, as well as sweat ceremonies at our Mosom’s sweat lodge. These events connect us as Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry Indigenous students, help us to build relationships with one another, and explore our culture.
Wâpanachakos Indigenous Health Program (WIHP)
In order to address the gap in the underrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in health professions, as highlighted by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Call To Action #23, the Wâpanachakos Indigenous Health Program (WIHP) provides wrap-around support to qualified Indigenous applicants as they enter into and graduate from health science programs at the University of Alberta. Under the guiding principles of respect, reciprocity, relationship, and renewal, the WIHP team supports students on their learning journey. The WIHP Team is made up of Elders, mentors, doctors, and researchers who work in many different areas, including recruitment and admissions, funding opportunities, and student support and services.
Our Future
The IMDSA hopes to continue to support, motivate, and champion future and current Indigenous healthcare providers. Through the tireless efforts of our past and current executive team, the IMDSA has made strides in incorporating Indigenous content into the medical school curriculum. We hope to continue to build relationships with the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, and advocate for further integration of Indigenous content into other programs, such as Dentistry. If you know a First Nations/Métis/Inuitt student that may be interested in a career in healthcare, please share our website (www.imdsa.ca) or visit our instagram (@imdsa_uofa)!