Krystal Abotossaway

Krystal Abotossaway of the Chiipewas of Rama and Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nations is a positive role model for her fellow Aboriginal youth and youth in general.

Coming from a place of underprivilege and poverty, Krystal overcame many struggles in her young life. She is described as a modest and humble individual who worked extremely hard to achieve exceptional marks at Patrick Fogarty Catholic Secondary School and then an honours degree from York University. She is currently employed by the Royal Bank of Canada as a diversity sourcing specialist and spends much of her time advocating professionally and personally on behalf of Aboriginal people, disabled people, women and youth.

Despite a demanding career, Krystal is an avid community volunteer. She spends a considerable amount of time giving back to Aboriginal communities, especially through student leadership and mentoring. She often returns to Orillia in order to assist her mother, who has cerebral palsy, raise her nine-year-old brother.

Krystal wants youth to know that struggles can shape a person’s character, not break them.