Social Work STUdents Partner with Under One Sky to Support Human Trafficking Survivors

STUdents from the Bachelor of Social Work program took action to raise awareness about human trafficking affecting Indigenous people in New Brunswick.

 

As part of their Social Action Placement, Indigo Komiwonuhke Poirier, Kiana Patles, Grace Lemmon, and Brooke Sears-Payzant researched human trafficking locally, nationally, and globally—focusing on harm reduction and survivor support.

 

“Getting out into the field and advocating was an amazing experience that really solidifies my path in social work,” said Patles, from Natoaganeg (Eel Ground First Nation).

 

They produced a list of recommendations for service providers and the public, which Under One Sky Friendship Centre will share with political leaders.

 

The students also participated in workshops and programming at Under One Sky, including ribbon skirt making and traditional medicine teachings. These experiences helped build their skills in communication, collaboration, conflict resolution and self-care— key parts of social work practice.

 

“The placement was a great opportunity to practice many of the skills I’ve learned in my community,” said Poirier, of Bilijk First Nation.

 

Their work not only deepened their understanding of human trafficking but also gave them hands-on experience advocating for structural change.

 

“Taking the social work program at STU has been an amazing experience—not only because of my courses and professors, but also because of my cohort. I feel as though I'm learning from every facet of this program,” said Lemmon from Fredericton.

 

The group shared their findings at this year’s Social Action Fair, where social work students showcased the community projects they’ve completed with local partner organizations.

 

“Being able to see everything we have accomplished is such a motivating feeling,” said Patles.