National Spokesperson

2007 National Spokesperson James Makokis
Marathon Runner, Honest, Determined

James, 25, is from the Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Alberta. He is currently studying medicine at the University of Ottawa. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science from the University of Alberta and a Masters of Health Science in Community Nutrition from the University of Toronto.

James started the Saddle Lake Health Warriors Walking/Running Group in 2006. Along with some of his group members, he has competed in marathons in Vancouver, Ottawa, Toronto and New Las Vegas.

As a two-spirited person, James encourages youth to be proud of who they are. His message to youth is: “Always remember who you are and where you come from—this will help guide where you are going in the future. Remember the importance of giving back to your community.”

He has helped distribute harm reduction supplies to inner city Edmonton residents with a program called “Streetworks.” In March 2007, James received the Youth Award from the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation. He believes in giving back to the community and plans to return home as a community family physician one day. This November, he will be writing an exam to become a registered dietitian.

Poster

Last Update: June 27 2007