More than 20 families and nearly 100 people were forced out of their homes on the O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi First Nation due to severe flooding in July of 2014.
McKenzie McDonald and her family were among those who evacuated. They moved around the Parkland, spent time in Brandon, and then moved to Winnipeg. The family spent three years in Winnipeg before moving back home.
She finished middle school on the First Nation before completing her high school studies at Rorketon School. She graduated in June of 2023. Just months later, McKenzie moved back to Manitoba's capital. She enrolled in pre-law at the University of Winnipeg in September of 2023.
"I always wanted to be a lawyer growing up," said McDonald. "I did my one year there. I took criminal justice, political science, conflict resolution, and rhetoric writing.
Growing up, writing was a major hobby of McKenzie's, along with reading and drawing. In June of 2024, McDonald moved back to her home community on the Ochi-Chak-Ko-Sipi First Nation and started as a cashier at the band store.
She spent less than three weeks as a cashier before she was quickly promoted to assistant manager at the store. Earlier this year, McKenzie noticed an opening at the Healing Lodge in the community. She didn't think much of it at the start because she was comfortable and enjoying her role at the band store.
Ultimately, McKenzie went in for an interview on February 2. She got the job on the spot. She took the role of members' finance manager. She's in charge of the members' finances and helps them with their budgets.
"I felt very honoured to be given such a great position," added McDonald. "I still feel very fortunate. I love the work I do, it's a great job."
The O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi Healing Lodge is an Indigenous-run men's correctional facility. It's designed to rehabilitate its members through cultural, spiritual, and holistic methods.
Now three months into her new career, McKenzie has enjoyed every moment.
"I think for me, it's seeing all the members progress through their journeys," added McDonald. "I try to help them stay positive. Many of them like to save their money so they have some footing when they leave. It's seeing them do better."
Late last week, the Southern Chiefs Organization posted on Facebook saluting McKenzie for her incredible job and work ethic.
"Again, I feel very honoured," commented McDonald. "I wasn't expecting a post like that. It's a lot, I feel very proud of myself."
While McKenzie has pondered moving back to the city to continue her schooling, she's happy to have stayed in her home community alongside her family and friends.
"It's very nice. It was good in the city, but out here, it's a beautiful place," ended McDonald. "Either way, I'm grateful. I ended up staying here, and I'm happy where I am."
As for the future, McDonald plans on staying in the law and government system. It's been her passion since she was young.
