Geneviève Pearce

What education have you taken?

I completed my elementary to high school education at École La Source, where I earned my francophone diploma. I am currently in my fourth year of my Biology Honours Science degree at Brandon University.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

I am most proud of the research I have done and how I have nurtured my passion for science over the years. Science has always captivated me, and my curiosity only grew as I participated in science fairs throughout my childhood. One of my proudest accomplishments was winning the Western Manitoba Science Fair and being selected to present my project at the national level at the Canada-Wide Science Fair. That experience validated my love for research and inspired me to start a science degree at Brandon University.

More recently, I am incredibly proud to be conducting my honours research in the Majumder Breast Cancer Cell and Molecular Research Lab. With 1 in 8 Canadian women being diagnosed with breast cancer, I feel deeply honoured to contribute to research that could lead to a better understanding of the disease, improve treatments, and, ultimately, make a real difference in patients’ lives.

Additionally, receiving the USRA NSERC award is a significant accomplishment. This award allows me to continue my breast cancer research over the summer. I am excited to see where this journey takes me and am grateful for the opportunities that allow me to channel my passion into impactful research.

Give a brief bio about yourself/ your background/ your history.

Growing up, I dreamed of becoming a “dancer scientist,” blending my love for dance with my passion for science. I started dancing at a young age, focusing on ballet and eventually transitioning to teaching. Now in university, I started Ukrainian dance which has been an excellent way to continue nurturing my passions while sharing my love for dance with my community.

I had the unique experience of attending a very small elementary and high school, École La Source, where I graduated with just five classmates. I am grateful for this opportunity, as it provided me with wonderful leadership opportunities, a deep appreciation for French culture, and it was where my passion for science began. Living in a predominantly English-speaking community as a Franco-Manitoban, I often struggled to access French opportunities, which inspired my advocacy and volunteer work to provide bilingual experiences.

I am now in my fourth year at Brandon University, completing my honours research in breast cancer. My research has deepened my desire to make a meaningful impact through healthcare. With this goal in mind, I have been applying to medical schools, aspiring to become a physician who offers compassionate, bilingual and rural care.

How did you become interested in your field of study?

My interest in my field of study has grown exponentially over the years. Every day in university lectures, I find myself amazed by how the human body works and how intricate molecular processes come together to sustain life. It feels like the more I learn, the deeper my curiosity becomes, and there’s always more to discover.

This passion for science started early. Participating in science fairs from grade 3 through grade 12 and eventually winning the Western Manitoba Science Fair and representing my project at the Canada-Wide Science Fair was a pivotal experience. It sparked my initial love for research and solidified my desire to pursue science academically.

Now, as I complete my honours research in breast cancer, I continue to be inspired by the potential to make a meaningful impact. Each discovery, whether in the classroom or the lab, fuels my ambition to contribute to healthcare.

What is your philosophy in life?

My philosophy in life is all about balance and taking meaningful breaks. When I first started university, I had the mindset that school and volunteering should be my only priorities. While this focus helped my grades, it ultimately led to burnout, and my mental health suffered. I realized that good grades alone didn’t bring me the happiness I had hoped for.

Now, I make it a priority to take meaningful breaks and cherish the things that bring me joy—whether it’s spending time with family and friends, being outside, exercising, or simply finding moments of peace. This balance has not only brought me more happiness but has also made me more productive academically. By planning intentional breaks, I find that I procrastinate less and approach my studies with a refreshed mindset. This philosophy of balance has truly transformed both my well-being and my approach to life.

 Where do you see yourself in the future?

In the future, I see myself as a dedicated doctor serving a rural community much like the one where I grew up. I see myself providing compassionate, bilingual healthcare that not only meets medical needs but also offers a safe and welcoming space for all patients, particularly women. I understand the importance of making female patients feel truly heard, valued, and comfortable discussing their health concerns. It is my goal to create an environment where they know their voices matter, where they feel empowered in their healthcare decisions.

I am also deeply passionate about learning. I believe that education is a lifelong journey, and I see myself continually seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and improve my skills. Whether through formal education or simply staying curious about advancements in medicine, I am committed to growing as both a healthcare provider and an individual.

In addition to my medical career, I hope to continue volunteering and empowering youth in my community. It’s important to me to give back, to help inspire the next generation, and to give them opportunities, especially in French.

In one sentence, how will you #AccelerateAction?

I will #AccelerateAction by advocating for gender equity in healthcare by creating a safe and welcoming space for female patients, promoting bilingual and accessible medical services in rural communities, and empowering youth through leadership and meaningful opportunities.