Indigenous Participation at the Samuel Group

My Internship Experience at Policy Insights Forum

‍During my internship at the Samuel Group of Companies and through its not-for-profit think tank, the Policy Insights Forum (PIF), I had the opportunity to work on a wide range of tasks that sharpened my skills in communication, research, and government relations. From creating databases and managing events to writing articles, designing graphics, and developing proposals, every responsibility challenged me in unique ways. These experiences not only pushed me to grow but also offered valuable insights into different areas of the field.

Why I Chose PIF

‍I was drawn to PIF because of its integrity, clear sense of purpose, impressive team, and fast-paced environment. The organization’s strong commitment to reconciliation through their Indigenous Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Policy particularly resonated with me. As a First Nation woman, it was essential for me to work for an employer that respects and advances Indigenous young leaders.

Memorable Moments

‍One of the highlights of my internship was attending events like CANSEC 2024, which provided an incredible opportunity to network with industry executives, government officials and military leaders. I appreciated the excitement of planning these events and the challenge of ensuring every detail was perfect. It was fulfilling to see our hard work come to life and to be a part of something that had a real impact.

What I Learned

‍This internship gave me a deeper understanding of how government and business work together as well as the growing importance of Indigenous procurement policies and opportunities offered by the Government of Canada. I also gained valuable insights into the broader defence sector in Canada. By interacting with professionals from various fields, I enhanced my communication skills and learned about effective leadership and strategic thinking.

Key Takeaways

‍Working with PIF has been an excellent opportunity for true hands-on experience and professional growth. I discovered new interests in Indigenous procurement and how it related to Canada’s defence industry policies, programs and priorities, aligning well with my educational background and studies. The supportive team at PIF genuinely believed in my potential, which is helping me define my career path and professional working contribution. This experience emphasized the importance of continuous learning and seizing every opportunity, leaving me enthusiastic about future possibilities.

Advice for Future PIF Interns

For those considering an internship with PIF, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

1. Stay organized and professional.
2. Be adaptable and proactive.
3. Seek out tasks if you have downtime.
4. Embrace every learning opportunity.
5. Make the most of your time—it goes by quickly.
6. Do not hesitate to ask questions to deepen your understanding and learning.

A PIF internship was an invaluable part of my educational and career journey. I am very grateful for the experiences and opportunities it has afforded me as an emerging Indigenous leader.