Indigenous peer mentor sets the stage for authenticity
Joe Ignace is known for providing a calm, steady presence at Cplul’kw’ten – the home away from home for Indigenous students.
Throughout his first year as an Indigenous peer mentor, Ignace’s initiative and leadership have already made a significant impact on students’ academic well-being, psychological safety and overall experience.
He even started a late-night study group during high-pressure periods.
“Joe recognized that students needed a quiet, culturally supportive place to work beyond regular hours,” said Lex Edwards, Indigenous Mentor and Communications Coordinator.
“By planning and hosting extended study nights, he ensured that students had a safe and welcoming environment to focus, catch up, and feel supported when most campus spaces were closed.”
Acknowledging the complexities of student life
Edwards, who nominated Ignace for the Peer Mentor of the Month award, noted that the support extends far beyond academics.
“His presence during those late hours is more than keeping the space open. Joe provides grounding and reassurance to students who may feel overwhelmed. He creates an atmosphere where they feel seen, supported, and encouraged so they can breathe, settle, and thrive.”
Ignace “understands and remembers” what it’s like to be a new student, which sparked the inspiration to become a mentor.
Ignace is celebrated for his kindness, humility and easy-going nature.
“I started my university program at the best possible time, which was January of 2020,” he laughed. “The COVID era was the most confusing experience. I remember talking to Elders and learning strategists at Cplul’kw’ten; they gave me advice, kept me grounded and focused, and promoted services. It’s hard navigating university life, and sometimes you need someone to talk to and be reminded of who you are.”
Coming back to campus post-COVID was a “breath of fresh air,” Ignace said. “I recognize that some people might be more standoffish or stay home a bit more. There are times when I feel like that.”
Finding balance
Ignace recognizes how deep focus can feel socially isolating. When he notices an imbalance or needs a burst of energy, he’ll head to the gym or catch up with friends, which is sure to lift his mood.
“One of my best friends says: ‘You can’t find out what’s in here” he said, pointing to his heart. “You have to go out there, and that often means interacting with the outside world.”
When Igance helps new students transition to TRU, he shares his own struggles and is vulnerable in his interactions, making it easier for others to let their guard down. This sense of ease and comfort allows students to make sense of their personal, emotional, or academic struggles and identify solutions.
“When I say hi, I’ll ask, ‘How are you? “If they say, ‘Oh, I’m fine,’ but look sad or depleted, I’d say, ‘How are you really?” If they need to get something off their chest, I’m more than happy to listen. No one should have to suffer in silence or feel alone.”
Ignace said that the care and wisdom he received from his community have become a compass and key motivator.
“I always wanted to be of service. The first thing I was taught was to respect your elders. My father always says: Me7 knucwentwécw-kt (We help one another), Me7 yucwmenstwécw-kt (We take care of each other).”
“Joe has shown reliability, maturity, and a strong understanding of what students need to feel successful,” Edwards said. “He notices when someone is stressed, checks in respectfully, and offers support in a way that feels natural and reassuring.”
Cplul’kw’ten, the home away from home for Indigenous students, connects students to Elders, learning strategists and peer mentors.
“These meaningful interactions, combined with his willingness to take on purposeful extra projects, have strengthened the welcoming, community-focused environment that students rely on at Cplul’kw’ten.”
Nearing the end of his biology major, Ignace is preparing to take the MCAT this summer. His aspirations include becoming a doctor and establishing a medical facility near Skeetchestn, where he grew up.
With these goals on the horizon, Ignace is intentional in acknowledging the “little wins” each day and recommends that practice to others. “It’s easy to get caught up in the pressures of success. Give yourself grace, but when you can’t believe in yourself, it’s important to have people around to uplift you in your low moments.”
Preferring to delve into meaningful conversation, Ignace said that he’d still “rather small talk with someone than have no interaction at all.”
“Even if they don’t want to tell me the full story, that’s fine. Students don’t always need advice or an explanation; sometimes, they just want to be seen and heard. However, I do try to reframe their narrative. It’s not what’s happening to you; it’s how you react to it. Shifting your perspective can change your life.”
The TRU Peer Leader of the Month award recognizes diverse contributions and rewards students who exemplify passion, leadership, resilience, excellence, creativity, and empathy.