At the heart of JEDI (Joint Economic Development Initiative) lies a commitment to empowering Indigenous youth through education, mentorship, and career development. Lori Nash’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of JEDI’s Indigenous Internship Program (IIP) and the transformative power of opportunity and mentorship.
Lori is from Sitansisk, she pursued her passion for media and culture, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Media, Arts and Cultures from the University of New Brunswick with minors in Sociology and Business. While completing her education, Lori worked as a shift manager at Burger King and as a Teaching Assistant to Dr. Sabine LeBel. However, she knew she wanted more—she wanted to build a career that aligned with her degree and interests. Determined to put her education to work, Lori searched for opportunities that would allow her to make a meaningful impact. That’s when she discovered the job posting offered by JEDI. She applied and was accepted, marking the beginning of her successful career in Communications.
As an intern at JEDI, Lori quickly found a mentor in Kayla Johnson, the Communications Officer at the time, now the Executive Director at the Indigenous Tourism Association of New Brunswick. Under Kayla’s guidance, Lori was introduced to the world of event planning and public engagement, two crucial aspects of JEDI's work. This experience allowed Lori to contribute to creating impactful events that helped raise awareness about the important work JEDI does for Indigenous communities.
Lori’s dedication, hard work, and passion for Communications did not go unnoticed. After completing her internship, she was offered a full-time position as Communications Officer. Over the next few years, Lori’s skills and leadership abilities propelled her forward. Within just four years she was promoted to her current role as Communications Manager, where she continues to lead JEDI’s Communications strategy, branding, and public event efforts. Throughout her time at JEDI, Lori has learned not only about the Communications field but also about Indigenous culture and organizations, which has been instrumental in her personal and professional growth. She values the supportive and collaborative office environment at JEDI.
As Communications Manager, Lori continues to advance JEDI’s mission, focusing on engaging the community through events and enhancing the organization’s public presence. She is especially excited about JEDI’s upcoming 30th Anniversary event in June, where she plans to highlight the organization’s ongoing efforts to empower Indigenous peoples and help them discover their career paths and passions.
Lori is a true success story, and her career trajectory demonstrates the significant impact JEDI’s programs can have on the lives of young people. Her journey underscores the importance of mentorship, hands-on experience, and a strong organizational support system in helping individuals reach their full potential. For young students looking to enter the workforce, Lori offers valuable advice: “Start your career by taking an internship, like the one JEDI offers. It’s a great way to gain experience, grow personally, and build a strong foundation for your future career. Internships can provide a clear pathway to success in your chosen industry.”
Lori’s success is a reminder that with the right support, guidance, and opportunity, anyone can turn their passions into a fulfilling career. She is proud of her accomplishments so far and looks forward to continuing her work to help JEDI grow.