High school student determined to reach her goals

Page 7

Things have certainly turned around for Raylene Powder.

Not too long ago, the 17-year old was thinking about dropping out of school. Now, she is not only succeeding in her studies, but she is leading other students by her example.

Powder recently received the Hudson's Bay Co. Aboriginal Youth Scholarship in recognition of her leadership qualities.

"Really?" was the beaming first reaction of Powder when she learned that several of her teachers had nominated her for the award based on academic achievement, contributions to the community and leadership.

Powder was a little surprised by the award, but she thinks it was her desire to help out other kids and her decision to stay in school that stood out.

"I like to set examples for other youth with hopes and dreams. Don't let anything stop you from what you want," she said.

Powder herself was nearly stopped by personal problems. She felt outcast at school, and almost quit. She decided to give school one last try, at the Churchill Learning Centre, which offers grade courses in an alternative setting. "The students and teachers make me feel comfortable," explained Powder.

She also changed her habits outside of school, thanks to a conversation with her mother.

"One day, I just sat down with my mom, and we talked about right and wrong," Powder said.

"Raylene is pretty amazing. She's come above all that," said Marian Andrews, who along with Don Ehman, Gail Gardiner and Ted Eninew nominated Powder.

The youth is now a strong role model for other students, and she helps others work out their problems. She strives to learn every day, and she encourages her peers to do the same, said Andrews.

"She participates in every program. She makes use of every opportunity here," said the teacher, who also commended Powder's mother, Darlene Keighley, for being such a good influence.

Powder plans to graduate in two years and after that, she'll have to make up her mind about a wide range of career interests. Already a firefighter in the summer, Powder sometimes thinks about training to become a sector boss. At other times, she dreams of becoming a counsellor, or a lawyer.

Anything is possible. When asked to pick one word to describe herself, Powder responded, "Determined."