Elora Gehue BA’17
June 2021
Elora Gehue BA’17
Halifax, NS
“[National Indigenous History Month] is a great time to learn about, appreciate and acknowledge the contributions that Indigenous people have made in Canada and how that has shaped what we see today.”
This month is National Indigenous History Month to honour the history, heritage and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. What is the importance of this month to you?
To me, it’s a great time to learn about, appreciate and acknowledge the contributions that Indigenous people have made in Canada and how that has shaped what we see today.
Could you tell us about your position as a Special Project Administrator with Public Services and Procurement Canada?
It really depends on the day as every day is different. I support executives, and clients within the government, in decision-making for special projects for Public Services and Procurement Canada. This could be if a department needs a new building built or construction done. Part of my whole right now is also working with New Brunswick Indigenous communities collaborating with them in design elements for projects. Every day is a different adventure!
What inspired you to start your own business, Lotus Business Solutions?
I haven’t done much with business so far. It was a COVID-19 endeavour when I was out of work, pregnant and waiting to work for the government. In university, I enjoyed consulting human resources on inclusion. I created my business to advise companies and individuals on inclusion and diversity to increase awareness and inform policy. The goal is to help human resources create a diverse and inclusive workplace. I also opened a business with my 8-year-old son, which is focused on traditional healing practices. It’s called Crystal Moon Healing and Wellness. Entrepreneurship runs in the family.
Why did you choose Saint Mary’s for your Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies?
My mom went to Saint Mary’s when they offered the Bachelor of Education. She raved about her professors and the Saint Mary’s community. I had a 4-month-old when I started university, so I wanted a supportive environment. I was looking for a small but busy atmosphere. Saint Mary’s was small but big enough. I really enjoy the close-knit, global community at the university. You know where everything is, and people remember who you are due to the smaller student population.
Why did you join Saint Mary’s Alumni Council?
The big driver in my joining was the lack of Indigenous representation on the Alumni Council. I noticed this when I was going to events during my graduation year. I had just finished my position as the Indigenous Student Society President and didn’t feel my work was done, so I joined the Alumni Council. That’s why I’m still involved today. I was involved in hiring Saint Mary’s first Indigenous Student Advisor, Raymond Sewell, and helping the university implement the recommendations that came out of the task force on Indigenous students.
When you were at Saint Mary’s, you were an Indigenous Peer Support Worker. Could you tell us about that role?
I didn’t hold the position for very long, but it was something that was needed. I supported the Counselling Centre with Indigenous-based activities, and I helped Indigenous students who were looking for peer support.