Meet the Recipients of the MDA Space Indigenous Student Scholarship Program 

MDA Space is pleased to announce the 2025 recipients of the MDA Space Indigenous Student Scholarship Program, designed to support the next generation of Indigenous leaders in STEM and the space industry. In partnership with Indspire, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to investing in the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people, MDA Space awarded scholarships to five outstanding Indigenous post-secondary students pursuing STEM-related programs. 

Meet the Recipients 

We are proud to introduce our 2025 scholarship recipients: 

• Livia Dewar, from Nation Huronne Wendat, studying Biology at Acadia University 
• Dawson Googoo, from Membertou First Nation, studying Biochemistry at Dalhousie University 
• Claire McIntosh, from Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, studying Science at Memorial University of Newfoundland  
• Hannah Kirdeikis, from Beausoleil First Nation, studying Chemistry at the University of British Columbia 
• Hailey Barnes, from Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, studying Neuroscience at Memorial University of Newfoundland 

Student Spotlight 

One of the scholarship recipients, Hannah Kirdeikis, from the Beausoleil First Nation, shared her story and advice for other Indigenous students looking to attend STEM-related programs.  

Hannah’s passion for science and space was sparked in part by her brother’s interest, and the idea of space exploration speaks to her sense of adventure and curiosity. With the support of her mom and community, she’s been able to pursue her dreams, even when it meant moving away from home.  

Now, as a recipient of the MDA Space Indigenous Student Scholarship, Hannah is excited to have additional support to help her achieve her goals. Hannah said, “receiving this scholarship means a lot to me, as it helps remove financial stress and allows me to focus on my studies. It’s a huge relief to have support for summer classes and living expenses, and it gives me more time to focus on my goals.” She plans to pursue a master’s degree in the future, combining her STEM skills with her interest in human interaction and problem-solving. 

Hannah offers the following advice to other Indigenous students interested in pursuing careers in STEM or the space industry, “look for opportunities and support, it can be tricky to find, but it’s out there. Many universities and colleges have programs specifically for Indigenous students, and having that connection and community is important. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help, and don’t give up on your goals.” 

Supporting Indigenous Students 

We are proud that of the positive impact the MDA Space Indigenous Student Scholarship Program is having and its potential to increase Indigenous representation in STEM and the space industry. We are honoured to support Hannah and the other recipients of the program and congratulate them on their achievements. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours and are excited to see the impact they will make in the space industry and STEM field.