Indigenous Innovator: Veronica Sayer

This is the fifth edition of our Indigenous Innovator Series where First Nations Technology Council alumni tell their stories about how digital skills have made a positive impact in their lives and communities.

• Name: Veronica Sayer
• Nation: Yellow Quill First Nation (mother Glen Mary Metis Settlement)
• Course Completed: Futures Digital Marketing, Futures Administrative Professional
• Where is she now? Wapanatahk Media

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Words by Veronica Sayer, Technology Council alum

Five years ago, I would have scoffed at the idea of becoming a television field producer sharing the stories of Indigenous Veterinarians. Yet, here I am, driven to reconnect with Indigenous culture and bring remarkable narratives to a mainstream audience. Combining my passion for Indigenous representation on screen with my love for animals - this opportunity felt like a dream come true.

I credit the First Nations Technology Council for equipping me with the digital foundation to thrive in media production. While my years in hospitality honed my interpersonal abilities, I lacked the specialized technical skills required to thrive in this. The Technology Council’s inclusive environment, digital training programs, and remote learning options gave me the confidence to continue to expand my digital skills.

After my first year of studies, the Technology Council connected me with Industrial Light & Magic, one of the world's premier visual effects studios. There, I received specialized training on the complex computer systems used to create the visual effects for motion pictures such as Thor: Ragnarok and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, which took my learning to new galactic heights. This magical experience blew me far, far, and away and further sparked my passion for technology, replacing any previous apprehensions with infinite possibilities.

After post-secondary training, I joined Wapanatahk Media, an Indigenous and female-led production company, as an intern. As a contributor to their Wild Rose Vets series, I progressed from story assistant to field producer, uncovering impactful narratives within local communities. Now, in my third season, I am being trained as a director and story editor, honing my digital skills in production, editing, and visual effects, which I first developed during my studies in BCIT’s TV and video production program.

Due to my desire to amplify Indigenous voices, I spend my time developing concepts for documentary and web series that harness the power of mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR) and animation to tell captivating stories spanning past, present, and future. Beyond the content itself, I aim to contribute to creating a pipeline of Indigenous technicians and storytellers, leveraging my personal project as a platform to make this vision a reality. Transitioning from hospitality to TV production was an extremely daunting career change. The self-doubt and imposter syndrome can still cloud my journey, with persistent questions like "do I deserve to be here?" – an emotion familiar to those who dare leap into unknown waters (like technology).

My journey story is a powerful reminder that technology can be a tool for transformation.  I believe in the importance of Indigenous perspectives in the technology sector—and beyond—as a means to incite transformative change. By capturing the wisdom of our elders and communities, we can share these invaluable lessons with future generations. 

Fortunately, gaining the necessary digital skills has become more accessible than ever. You can learn remotely at no cost and connect with like-minded individuals across British Columbia.

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