Brittany Kozak

She is the Employment and Training Director at Athabasca Tribal Council, and is a board member of the Huskies Booster Club, Wood Buffalo Sport Connection, and Keyano College Alumni Association. YMM: What is the most rewarding part of your career? BK: Being an Indigenous employment and training director is rewarding not only for the reasons typical of this profession but, also because I have the opportunity to make a profound impact within my own cultural context. My work has the potential to uplift individuals, families, and communities while contributing to the preservation and revitalization of Indigenous cultures and traditions. Indigenous individuals often face historical and systemic barriers that can impact their trust in mainstream institutions. As an employment & training director, I believe that I am better positioned to build trust and rapport, facilitating more effective support and guidance. YMM: What accomplishment are you most proud of? BK: Undoubtedly, one of life’s most significant accomplishments is the role of a working mother. Balancing the demands of a career while nurturing a family showcases a remarkable blend of strength, dedication, and resilience. This multifaceted achievement not only highlights the ability to excel in professional pursuits but also underscores the capacity to provide unwavering love, support, and guidance to one’s family. Being a working mother transcends traditional definitions of success, as it involves a delicate equilibrium between professional aspirations and personal responsibilities. This accomplishment resonates deeply, as it sets an enduring example for both children and society. Working mothers become living inspirations, showing their children—especially their daughters—the power of ambition, determination, and the possibility of thriving in multiple spheres of life. This achievement is a testament to adaptability and prioritization, teaching valuable life skills to children and shaping their perceptions of what’s attainable. It exemplifies the ability to overcome challenges with grace, make sacrifices for the greater good, and maintain a steadfast commitment to both family and personal growth. The accomplishment of being a working mother radiates far beyond individual achievements. It influences generations, challenges societal norms, and leaves an indelible mark on the world. It’s a testament to the incredible strength and love that defines the essence of motherhood in the modern age. YMM: Who is your hero, and why? BK: My mom is the embodiment of a hero in my eyes, a living testament to the incredible strength of an Indigenous woman. Her journey has been marked by hardships that could have broken anyone, yet she not only persevered but thrived. Losing her parents at a young age and enduring the challenges of attending a residential school were monumental obstacles, but she channelled her pain into a force of determination. Through sheer willpower and a thirst for knowledge, she excelled academically and carved her own path toward success. Today, she stands as a shining example of triumph over adversity. Her success isn’t merely defined by her professional achievements, but also by the kind of person she has become. Her heart overflows with compassion, and her acts of selflessness and love are a testament to her character. Despite her own struggles, she has always put the needs and happiness of others before her own. Her caring nature knows no bounds, and her love radiates through every action and gesture. She’s not just successful in the traditional sense, but successful in embodying the values of kindness, compassion, and resilience. Witnessing her journey has shaped my own understanding of strength, success, and love. She has shown me that the challenges life throws our way can be conquered with unwavering determination, and that success is more meaningful when accompanied by a heart that cares deeply for others. In every sense, my mom is my hero, a living example of the extraordinary power to rise above adversity and thrive while spreading love and light to those around her.