Nicole Jung

Master of Science in Oceans and Fisheries (Sept 2023 - Present) | she/her/hers

Greetings! My name is Nicole, and I am a settler-descendent of Chinese immigrants who grew up on the traditional, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations (in what is now sometimes called Vancouver, BC). 

I have flourished on these People’s territories, because they are good stewards: My inherent love of all creatures thriving amidst generationally cared for oceans, rivers, and trees. I have flourished on these territories because they are stolen territories: Ongoing settler colonialism has displaced/displaces Indigenous Peoples, through violence, dishonesty, and criminal actions. 

These realities (i.e., the realities of Indigenous Presence and settler colonialism), and the tensions between them, are what I acknowledge when I introduce myself to you in this way. 

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In April of 2022, I completed a double major in Indigenous Studies and Marine Biology (Honours), with supervision and support from the Centre for Indigenous Fisheries. When I began university, I carried with me a deep, personal love of the ocean that inspired my interest in marine research. So, the path toward a fulfilling degree seemed clear. However, as I matured as a researcher, so did my vision for what research could look like. In particular, the time I spent as a summer camp leader in Tsawout First Nation developed my understanding of the ocean into something more full: The ocean, to me, became a context for both environmental and Indigenous flourishing. Through this matured understanding, I now work toward emphasizing the connections between social and environmental in/justice in my research, storytelling, and art.  Starting in September of 2023, I have (re)joined the Centre as a Master’s student, continuing my learning journey by partnering with the Tsawout fisheries department and Hakai Institute in studying the early life stages of Dungeness crab.

Through the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries (IOF) Indigenous Pathway program, I am able to study and live in Tsawout, surrounded by the children, youth, waters, and elders who teach me daily about doing my work well. We share life together, in many ways and in many different seasons. I am a proud relation to many here: A relation that can, at times, resemble being a grand/daughter, friend, youth leader, and community member all at once.

Email: n.jung[at]oceans.ubc.ca