Michelle Bernard, a first year Bachelor of Arts student at CBU has been selected from hundreds of applicants from across Canada to represent her nation/ancestry at the Vancouver 2010 Indigenous Youth Gathering.

The Gathering will be hosted from January 30 to February 14 in the traditional Four Host First Nations (FHFN) territories: the Lil'wat, Musqueam, Squarnish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

The successful applicants were chosen based on their demonstrated leadership, experience and achievements. They are identified as emerging leaders and ambassadors for their communities.

This opportunity offers a once in a lifetime experience to be part of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games. The gathering will bring together more than 300 First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth from ages 19-29 and have them participate and perform in the Games cultural activities.

"To be representing my culture, people and community is a great honour," says Michelle. "I would of never thought in a million years that I would be chosen to represent the Mi'kmaq culture at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, I am very grateful."

In addition, programming for the gathering will focus on healthy living, sport, leadership, sustainability and the Olympic Truce. Guest speakers will include Olympians and Paralympians, Aboriginal athletes and other role models.

The Indigenous Youth Gathering is hosted by FHFN and the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC).

Congratulations Michelle and good luck from everyone at CBU.