Bianca Tyrell is creating a meaningful impact in the world of health care.
At the age of 26, Tyrell is currently studying to become a registered nurse at Mount Royal University while advocating for decolonization when it comes to Indigenous health.
“I work within a system where the impacts from colonization are still abruptly evident,” says Tyrell. “There is so much that still needs to be done, and this is what motivates me to advocate for change.
“To be someone who is safe and can work towards rebuilding trust, and to be a voice advocating for better care and representation, is something I feel is my purpose.”
Tyrell currently works at Sunrise Healing Lodge, an Indigenous-based inpatient addiction-treatment facility, a cause close to her heart.
Recently, she has become a founding member of a student-led organization at her university, where they are pursuing a greater representation of Indigenous strength and resiliency in health care through advocating for the inclusion of Indigenous healing practices and teachings in the curriculum.
Nominator Heather Spearman says Tyrell is an absolute force.
“Bianca Tyrell is absolutely one to watch and I am so grateful she moved to Airdrie a few years ago,” says Spearman.
“She believes in elevating the voices of every woman and guides them to trust their instincts. Her work in the sobriety community and Indigenous health care is nothing short of inspiring.”