The Gwen Cook Memorial Bursary was created to honour the memory of Gwen Cook – Bimosekwe – who was one of the founding Grandmothers of the Manitoba Moon Voices Grandmother Advisory Circle.  Gwen was a proud Mashkego Anishinaabe ikwe who was born in The Pas, Manitoba and grew up in Flin Flon and Cranberry Portage. She was a loving mother, sister, grandmother, and friend who had a strong and gentle spirit.

Education was always important to Gwen as she pursued and attained her Bachelor of Social Work degree, Masters of Social Work, and was pursuing a Doctoral degree. Gwen worked in Winnipeg for forty years at various organization where she loved her work with people, facilitating, counselling, and teaching. Gwen contributed to the community by volunteering with various boards including Ka Ni Kanichihk and Grandmothers Working for Good Life council where she provided expertise in the area of social services and shared her traditional knowledge.

Gwen was also a committee member with the Masters of Social Work Indigenous Knowledge Program. Gwen was also an active member of the Three Fires Midewin Lodge for well over twenty years and was a fourth degree Midewin woman. Reclamation of our Anishinaabe traditional way of life was essential to her life and she encouraged others to work at that in their own healing. Gwen was a leader in the community who adhered to traditional practice, values, and leadership.

Gwen Cook Memorial Bursary

The Gwen Cook Memorial Bursary is awarded to an Indigenous woman or gender diverse individual enrolled in post-secondary studies in Manitoba who is a member of Manitoba Moon Voices and exemplifies these qualities. The award will recognize a deserving woman or gender diverse individual making a difference in promoting traditional and cultural values, as these were all important aspects in Gwen’s life.

The award is intended for those enrolled in post-secondary studies with a minimum 60 per cent course load (nine credit hours per fall and winter term).

Applications must include:

  • An Essay explaining what traditional leadership means to you and how you put these into practice (500- 1000 words).
  • A copy of your most recent transcript. 
  • Proof of Indigenous ancestry (all applicants are required to provide a copy of their Treaty, Nunavut Health Care card, or Metis card and community affiliation).
  • A letter of recommendation.
  • A resume.

Fillable PDF applications is available here.

Deadline December 8, 2021