Sarah Loretta Schuster (Zhaawashkwaa-Giizhigong-Biish-Kwe) is Anishinaabe from the Turtle Clan, born in Peterborough, Ontario. Her biological mother is a registered band member of Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation (Nizaatikoong) in Northwestern Ontario.
Sarah is an intergenerational survivor of the Sixties Scoop whose own adoption disconnected her from her biological family, language, and culture. She has spent her life reconnecting with her heritage and is deeply grateful for the love and support of both her families.
She was lucky to grow up in a home where her adoptive mother was also Anishinaabe and her father encouraged her to stay connected to her roots. Raised in Richmond Hill, Sarah often felt isolated. With no local cultural supports, her family traveled long distances to attend powwows, ceremonies, and spiritual care.
Sarah has supported Indigenous community initiatives and organizing work since 2011. Her work is grounded in human rights and land protection, with a focus on equitable access. Shaped by her lived experience as an urban Indigenous adoptee, she focuses on creating Indigenous led spaces that prioritize accessibility, creativity, and cultural revitalization. She also works to support greater access to Indigenous medicines in places where they are not readily available or affordable.
In recognition of her work, Sarah received the 2025 Naim Malik Award for the Promotion of Intercultural Friendships.
Sarah studied horticulture and culinary arts at George Brown College and has recently completed a certificate in Indigenous End of Life Care through the Institute of Traditional Medicine.
