Aspiring Cree Teacher Develops Swampy Cree Language App
Cameron snowshoeing at Lake Winnipeg
Cameron Adams (former known as Cameron Lozinski) is currently working towards his Indigenous Studies degree from the University of Winnipeg (UWinnipeg) and is in the process of developing a Swampy Cree Language App which will be released in the fall of 2019. He received support from a few organizations within UWinnipeg and a Computer Science instructor based out of Saskatoon. He is passionate about revitalizing Indigenous languages across Manitoba and in 2018, was recognized as one of CBC’s Future 40 under 40 along with several other notable recognitions. He also volunteers yearly for Habitat for Humanity and recently returned from Macedonia where he helped build a house.
Cameron’s achievements however, did not come easy. In 2010, he was in Grade 5 and moved from Saskatchewan to Gimli, Manitoba after having surgery for hydrocephalus where he was then diagnosed with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). “This was a difficult time for me,” he says. “I was trying to discover who I was. My disability played a role in making it difficult to make friends and I was being bullied.” He adds, “My disability is not one that can be seen from the outside which makes it difficult for people to understand. You would have to spend time with me to see it.” His mom tried to communicate with the school but was not getting the results she expected so his SMD Service Coordinator/ Rehabilitation Counsellor acted as a liaison and advocate. “SMD was able to speak on our behalf to the school staff as well as came to present to my peers.” He remembers how much of a difference that one meeting made. “They helped educate my school and the school division on my specific case. Even in the school atmosphere a hidden disability was something that they needed to be educated on.”
In grade 9, he joined the Evergreen Aboriginal Group of Leaders in Education (EAGLE) group where he learned about various Aboriginal cultures, traditional medicines, social issues and went on field trips to different places. It was during this period of time where his passion for learning about his Indigenous identity grew and he started learning the Cree language. It took many years but Cameron was able to build friendships. “Over time, I was seen beyond my disability…I was seen for who I was.”
Through our Adult Vocational Rehabilitation program, SMD is able to connect clients like Cameron with funding for post-secondary education through the Employability Assistance for People with Disabilities (EAPD) program. The Adult Vocational Rehabilitation program also assists individuals with post-secondary educational planning and ensures they are aware of accessibility services available to them on campus.
SMD checked in regularly throughout Cameron’s schooling to make sure he was succeeding. “They offered support by covering the cost of a tutor if I needed one. Additionally, they informed me of the possibility of having my tuition and books being covered for post-secondary education.” Being raised by a single parent, this offered relief to his family. “Working during my studies would have been very difficult as well, as it takes all my energy and focus to succeed in my schooling.”
His goal after graduating from UWinnipeg is to be a Cree teacher in Northern Manitoba. When asked about what points he would like to get across to those who read about his story, he says, “I think that anyone is capable of achieving their dreams if they work hard…It may take me longer to complete my education but with the support of SMD and the people around me I know I will reach my goals. I have met so many people along the way that have helped me and when you have people that believe in you anything is possible.”
Cameron volunteering in Macedonia for Habitat for Humanity Global Village Build May-June 2019
“After my ABI I experienced bouts of anxiety. To me, SMD means having one less thing to have anxiety about.” - Cameron Adams