​Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Jennifer Damstrom is a proud member of the Oneida Nation of the Thames on her mother's side (Turtle Clan) and has Eastern European heritage through her father. After moving to Kitimat at the age of three, she later settled in Terrace as a young wife and mother of three, and in 2015, she and her family relocated to Cranbrook. Today, she calls the beautiful community of Kimberley home, where she lives with her husband Scott. She serves the community of ʔaq̓am, part of the Ktunaxa Nation in southeastern BC, in a dual role as community health nurse and home care nurse.

'I love hearing the stories and teachings from the Elders.'

Reflecting on her favourite part of the job, Jennifer says it's the connection to community that means the most. “I didn't have connection to my mother's First Nation community and had a lot of shame growing up as an Indigenous person," she shares. “Now, I love hearing the stories and teachings from the Elders in this community. I love advocating for safe and standardized health care for all community members."

Jennifer's commitment to Indigenous health goes far beyond her day-to-day nursing role. She is a strong advocate for Indigenous-specific anti-racism in health care and serves as an elected board member and governance committee member with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives. She also contributes her voice as part of the Community of Practice for Indigenous Regulators.

'Recognizing trauma is a top priority in my practice.'

For Jennifer, understanding the legacy of colonialism and racism is a key component to providing culturally safe care. “Recognizing the trauma that this community has suffered has been the top priority in my practice," she says. “I believe in community-led programming and nursing through a trauma-informed lens. There has been a lot of learning and education through my roles especially around Indigenous Specific Anti-Racism."

When asked what she would say to someone considering a career in community health nursing, Jennifer is quick to suggest that it's a role that should not be rushed into. “It truly does require a nurse that has a well-rounded background" she explains, adding that working within Indigenous communities demands a deeper level of understanding. “For those working in Indigenous communities, I think it's important to truly understand what trauma-informed practice is and to really take the time to understand how colonization has affected Indigenous Peoples and how every Indigenous person is impacted by these intergenerational traumas."

Through her work and advocacy, Jennifer is helping to create a future where Indigenous Peoples receive care that is rooted in trust, understanding, and cultural safety.

To learn more about a career in community health nursing visit the link here.