Jade Smith

What education have you taken?

I grew up in small communities in southwest Manitoba, attending Glenboro School until Grade 3 before moving to Baldur, where I graduated in 2020 in a class of just six students. Coming from a rural background, my opportunities in science initially felt limited, but I was eager to keep learning.

I started university online during the pandemic and am now in my fifth year of undergraduate studies at Brandon University. Currently, I am completing my Honours Thesis research in molecular neuroscience and will graduate this spring with a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Biology. As a first-generation university student, navigating academia has been both exciting and challenging, but it has given me opportunities I never could have imagined—including working in research labs, mentoring students, and pushing my own limits in ways I never thought possible.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

Receiving this nomination is an incredible honour, but more than any award or title, my proudest accomplishment is simply making it this far. As a first-generation university student, I’ve had to navigate higher education without a roadmap while overcoming personal challenges, including struggles with my mental health. There were times I questioned whether I belonged in this space, but through perseverance, support, and my unwavering curiosity, I kept pushing forward.

A defining moment in my journey was meeting Dr. Melvin, whose mentorship introduced me to the world of research and completely changed the trajectory of my academic career. His support gave me the confidence to step into a lab, take up space, ask big questions, and see my own potential in a new light.

Beyond academics, I take immense pride in the impact I’ve had on the young people in my life, especially young women. Growing up, my mom ran a daycare, so I was constantly surrounded by kids – playing, teaching, and watching them grow. I also coach many young female hockey players, have many younger cousins, and, most importantly, am the proudest aunt to my niece, Parker. I feel incredibly lucky to have young people who look up to me, and whether it’s through scientific achievements, community involvement, or simply leading by example, I want to show young girls that they are capable of anything if they stay resilient and believe in themselves.

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

I come from small-town living, where life was simple but full of meaning. I grew up on a farm, attending Glenboro School before my family moved to Belmont, where I finished school in Baldur, graduating with a class of just six. Growing up in rural Manitoba shaped who I am—it taught me the value of hard work, the importance of community, and how to make the most of every opportunity. Life moved at a slower pace, but there was never a shortage of things to do—whether I was exploring the trees and fields, playing hockey in freezing rinks, or finding creative outlets through art.

Hockey became a huge part of my life, even though I didn’t see many girls playing at first. But I wasn’t content to just watch from the stands—I joined my brother’s team, encouraged my friends to do the same, and before long, we had enough players to start our own female team. That team became the Westman Falcons, a program I was part of in its inaugural season and am now lucky enough to coach for. Hockey taught me resilience, teamwork, and leadership, and it gave me some of my best memories.

During high school and into university, I worked for my local municipality’s recreation department, helping organize kids’ programs and community events for six summers. That job connected me with my current boss, Milly, who hired me at Fun Time Pottery in my first year of university. Almost five years later, it’s still one of my favorite places to be—a creative space where I get to meet people, build connections, and continue being part of my community.

How did you become interested in your field of study?

In high school, I knew I loved biology, but I didn’t know where it could take me. Coming from a small town, my exposure to careers in science was limited, so my plan was to get a general science degree and then go into education to become a high school biology teacher. I wanted to inspire students the way my own teachers had inspired me, and at the time, teaching felt like the highest goal I could realistically reach.

That changed when I got to Brandon University and met Dr. Melvin. Taking his classes and later joining his neuroscience lab opened my eyes to something I had never considered—research. I had never thought about the people working behind the scenes, asking the big questions that didn’t yet have answers. The more I learned, the more I realized I didn’t just want to teach science—I wanted to be part of discovering it.

Since then, I’ve spent three years working in Dr. Melvin’s lab, studying molecular neuroscience and the role of RNA-binding proteins in memory. In the summer of 2024, I expanded my research experience by working as a research assistant in Dr. Majumder’s breast cancer lab. That opportunity showed me how my skills could be applied in different areas of biomedical science, opening doors I never knew existed.

Looking back, I never expected to be here. What started as a love for biology has turned into a passion for research, discovery, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. While I still love teaching and mentorship, I now know that my place in science isn’t just in the classroom—it’s at the forefront.

What is your philosophy in life?

I believe in curiosity, resilience, and the power of human connection. Growing up in a rural community, I learned the value of hard work, adaptability, and making the most of what’s in front of me. Later, through travel and new experiences, I realized that growth happens when we step outside of our comfort zones—every place, person, and challenge has something to teach us.

Over time, I’ve come to see that there’s no such thing as failure, only learning. Every setback is just part of the process, a stepping stone toward something greater. Instead of dwelling on the past or trying to predict the future, I’m trying to focus on being present—experiencing, enjoying, and learning from the exact moment I’m in. Life is unpredictable, but by staying curious, open, and willing to embrace whatever comes my way, I know I’ll keep growing in ways I never expected.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the future rarely follows the path you expect—and that’s not a bad thing. Five years ago, I thought I’d become a high school biology teacher and stay close to the small communities I grew up in. Now, after years of research experience and mentorship, I see myself continuing in science, with the goal of pursuing graduate studies in neuroscience or biomedical research.

At the same time, I want to experience life beyond academics—traveling, learning from new experiences, and seeing where different opportunities take me. Growth isn’t just about education; it comes from stepping outside of comfort zones, meeting new people, and embracing change. Whether I end up in a research lab, mentoring students, or exploring something entirely unexpected, I know I’ll always be learning, evolving, and pushing myself to reach new heights.

In one sentence, how will you #AccelerateAction?

I will #AccelerateAction by mentoring and advocating for young women in science, sports, and leadership – especially those from small communities – so they feel empowered to take up space, challenge expectations, and pursue opportunities they may have never thought possible.