Darlene Johnson

Darlene Johnson

CIBA, B.Comm. ('08)

Darlene is a Cree-speaking woman from the Samson Cree Nation in Alberta. She relocated to Saskatoon to pursue a post-secondary business education after raising her family. She obtained a CIBA certificate and continued in the ESB B.Comm. program graduating in the spring of 2008.

Darlene credits her grandmother for giving her the encouragement she needed to believe in herself and in her abilities. Her philosophy was AHTOSKESTAMASOHK which means "be independent". The root word means "to work". Darlene's grandmother wanted the most from her and Darlene was determined to fulfill that dream.

Many ESB students were inspired and mentored by Darlene who could be a powerful friend. When some of her fellow students hit a barrier or considered walking away from the program, Darlene simply wouldn't let them. She would often talk them through it and help them find the courage and the supports to succeed.

Darlene believes more Aboriginal students must choose a business career to help build economic capacity in First Nations communities.