A dream rooted in culture

From a young age, Nicole knew she wanted to be a nurse. Growing up in Rigolet, a close-knit Inuit community in Labrador, she looked up to the local nurses and admired their dedication. Her Inuktitut teacher used to say, “You’re going to take care of me when I’m old.” That affirmation stuck.

Education was a core value in her family—her grandmother was the first Inuk teacher in Labrador. But life took Nicole down a unique path. As a single parent, she began working as a community health worker before enrolling in the Integrated Nursing Access Program in 2005. The program allowed her to stay close to home and complete most of her degree in Labrador, surrounded by community and support.

Today, Nicole is a proud regional registered nurse with over 13 years of experience across Northern Labrador. She has served in communities like Makkovik, Hopedale, Postville, and her hometown of Rigolet.

“When I work in my home community, it reaffirms my passion,” Nicole shares. “People are so proud to have a nurse from home.”

Whether she’s supporting expectant mothers, caring for Elders, or flying on medevacs across the region, Nicole is more than a health-care provider, she is someone who deeply understands the people she serves.

Cultural wisdom, clinical care

Indigenous nurses like Nicole bring more than clinical skills—they bring cultural knowledge that transforms care.

“We understand the culture because we’ve lived it,” Nicole says. “We know what words mean in context. Someone might say they’re not in pain, but say they are ‘sore’—and that matters.”

From respecting Elders to involving extended family in care, Nicole’s approach bridges the gap between modern medicine and Indigenous tradition. She speaks plainly and respectfully, for clarity and comfort: “Instead of saying ‘dermatologist,’ I say ‘skin doctor.’”

She also shares the health benefits of traditional foods like seal (rich in iron), berries (high in antioxidants), and wild meat (lean and heart-healthy.) Even traditional medicines, like turpentine or beaver pride, play a role in healing. 

Nicole believes health care should be guided by the voices of those living in the communities. 

“How can someone understand the needs of Nain without asking?” She asks. “The nurses in the communities see everything every day. We need to be at the table.” 

She also stresses the importance of community engagement and cultural connection in nursing education. Attending local events, inviting Elders to speak, and immersing in culture are all vital steps in building future health-care leaders who are truly community-rooted. 

Our commitment to health equity  

NL Health Services is proud to have Nicole as part of its nursing team – her knowledge, experience and connection to community make a meaningful difference every day in Labrador. 

NL Health Services recognizes that meaningful care is rooted in listening to lived experiences and understanding the diverse factors that influence health — including culture, geography, identity, and individual life circumstances. Through the creation of culturally safe environments and by elevating the voices of those with deep community knowledge, NL Health Services is committed to reducing barriers, improving access, and supporting the health and well-being of individuals and communities across the province. 

“I am proud to share that we have a new provincial policy to support Indigenous ceremonies within our facilities, recognizing their importance in the well-being of many Indigenous patients, residents, and families,” Nicole says. 

Nicole’s work demonstrates how care rooted in both knowledge and culture can break down barriers and build trust where it matters most. 

Read NL Health Service’s Indigenous Ceremonies policy. 

A message for future Indigenous nurses 

Nicole’s advice for Indigenous youth considering nursing is simple: “Go for it. 

“When community members see that you’re ‘one of them,’ they smile. There’s deep pride and trust. You understand them in a way no textbook can teach.” 

She’s especially excited about the new RN prescriber role, which allows nurses to prescribe medications and order diagnostic tests, dramatically improving access and reducing wait times for remote communities. 

Nurses who carry culture, care, and hope 

Nicole’s story is one of determination, love for her community and cultural strength. As an Indigenous nurse, she doesn’t just treat illness—she nurtures connection, trust, and healing. 

“Indigenous nurses are vital to community health,” she says. “We’ve lived the lives of the people we care for. That builds respect—and from that, real healing can happen.” 
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This story was written by Jon Oake, a communications officer with NL Health Services. Based in Grand-Falls Windsor.