10/17/2026
We're pleased to announce the recipient of our 2026 Reproductive Changemaker Award is Courtney Pennell! ✨
Courtney Pennel, BSCN, RN, is a Mi’kmaw Registered Nurse, Indigenous health leader, educator, and graduate researcher from Wasoqopa’q First Nation, with more than a decade of experience across healthcare, nursing education, research, and community partnerships.
She is excited to return to Tajikeimɨk | Mi’kmaw Health & Wellness as the L’nuey Midwifery Program Lead. Previously, she served as the Mi’kmaw Indigenous Nurse Education Specialist, supporting the L’nu Nursing Strategy and working with students, nursing programs, and community partners to strengthen pathways for Mi’kmaw and Indigenous nurses.
In her new role, she is shifting her focus toward maternal and child health and supporting the growth of Mi’kmaw midwifery in Nova Scotia through education, partnerships, and Mi’kmaw-led approaches to pregnancy, birth, and family care.
Her background also includes pediatric nursing and Indigenous health leadership at IWK Health, where she supported children and families and contributed to organizational work in equity, reconciliation, and culturally responsive care. These experiences continue to shape her approach to bringing together clinical practice, education, research, and community priorities.
She is completing my Master of Science in Nursing, with a thesis focused on cultural safety in healthcare. Her academic interests include Indigenous methodologies, Etuaptmumk (Two-Eyed Seeing), cultural safety, and Indigenous nursing education.
She is passionate about building relationships, creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous learners and health professionals, and supporting healthcare environments where Indigenous people feel seen, respected, and valued.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, connecting with Community, and watching her son play sports. She is also a trained doula, and maternal and child health remains especially meaningful to her.
