Laila Valila: MPA Student Leading & Learning at USask

When Laila Valila began her Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) this fall, she was motivated by a deep commitment to Métis governance, student advocacy and meaningful change.

Originally from St. Louis, Saskatchewan, with family ties to Batoche, Valila identifies as Métis, with Indigenous roots on her father’s side and Métis heritage on her mother’s. Valila demonstrated a dedication to her education at a young age, earning the Governor General’s Bronze Medal upon graduating high school in recognition of her hard work.

“I’ve always been incredibly interested in Métis Nation,” said Valila. “I voted for the first time when I was 16 and I haven’t missed a single vote. I show up to regional meetings whenever I can.”  

Since arriving at USask for her undergrad in 2020, Valila has been committed to gaining experience in governance and connecting with students across campus. She has served as an executive representative on various USask clubs and student societies, including the Political Science Students Association, the USSU Indigenous Advisory Committee, the USSU Election Committee, the Métis Students Association, and USask NDP. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies, with Honours, in 2025 while earning three additional certificates.

“When I came to campus, I applied for absolutely everything I could,” said Valila. “The connections I've made have been so helpful.”

Now in graduate school, Laila is pursuing a course-based Master’s in Public Administration. Ultimately, she hopes to work in federal social policy, where she can advocate for Indigenous communities on a national scale.  

Outside the classroom, Laila currently serves as the Vice President Indigenous for the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA), where she serves on several sub-committees working to support Indigenous graduate students at USask.

One of Laila’s goals as VP Indigenous Engagement is to change how land acknowledgements are delivered on campus.

“There's an issue where it's always just copied and pasted in, and then is often still inaccurate when delivered,” said Valila. She believes that the current approach can feel performative, especially to international students who may not be aware of the history of the land.

 “It doesn't seem like reconciliation - it seems like a requirement,” she says. “There has to be a different approach to reconciliation on campus than providing a mandatory land acknowledgement.”

Valila’s advice to other Indigenous graduate students is simple: get involved.

“Apply for anything you can, especially if you're interested in governance,” she urges. “Join an exec if you can.”

For those less inclined toward leadership roles, she recommends attending USSU events. “You can just show up on your own, and there are so many other people who are there on their own, too.”

Laila also challenges Indigenous students to think about their role in supporting one another.

"Indigenous leaders on campus are doing a wonderful job but as a collective, we are not doing enough," said Valila. "As someone from a rural community, I think this comes from a feeling of disconnection due to the individualistic nature on campus. I really encourage all Indigenous students to connect to their roots and to give back to our community and youth through campus involvement."