Maya Oversby, a 2025 graduate of the Social Justice Studies MA, won the Governor General’s award as the top graduate student in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. Maya is the first Social Justice Studies graduate to win this award.  She was also the top student in the program, and received both recognitions at the May 28 Convocation. 

Maya (She/her) is Red River Métis and Irish/English artist born and raised in Treaty Three Territory in Dryden, ON.  Maya completed her Creative Project on counter mapping with beadwork titled “Confronting Land Disposition through Kinship and Beadwork.” She worked under the direction of Dr. Kiera Loukes and Dr. Juan Sanchez Martinez. 

“SJS gave me a space to explore Indigenous research methodologies and critique what Social Justice means to me within the context of my positionality. I felt well supported and encouraged throughout the duration of my degree. I am so thankful for the amazing educators, peers and friends that supported me along this journey.”

Maya will be contract lecturing this upcoming Fall semester for the School of Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Tourism. In her spare time, Maya will continue to bead and spend time on the land!