Internships and Awards inspire JSGS MPA student

Memory Matimati was initially drawn to the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy (JSGS) for its unique opportunity of Executive Internship program, a platform to translate classroom learning into real-world experiences.

Being a part of the internship program, Matimati not only got a firsthand glimpse into the professional environment of a policy analyst but also forged deep career connections with mentors who guided her journey.

Leveraging her dynamic mentorship experience, she went on to share her knowledge and insights by mentoring five international students from Europe and Asia through the Mitacs program. Mitacs is a national organization that connects academia, government and industry to solve organizationial challenges and expand Canada’s innovation capacity.

This was just the beginning for her.

“The chance to participate at the pan-Canadian Model European Union simulation in Ottawa gave me an exciting space to discuss Arctic policy issues and learn EU policy-making processes,” she said.

Matimati’s passion for the public sector grew after years of work in child protection advocacy in Zimbabwe. Her background in rural development and urban planning served as a solid foundation, deepening her commitment for driving meaningful impact within society.

Later, she found herself stepping on to a global stage with the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program.

Currently working as an executive intern with the Ministry of Advanced Education, Government of Saskatchewan, she is set to graduate at University of Regina Spring Convocation 2024.

With graduation on the horizon, Matimati “aspires to apply her policy skills to positively contribute to the society.” A strategic thinker, she seeks diverse opportunities to contribute to the greater good of communities.

As a recipient of the JSGS Alumni Association Award, Matimati expresses her gratitude to the Association, noting that it helped taking the pressure off of her tuition.

The JSGS Alumni Association Award was established in 2021 to assist students pursuing a master’s degree program at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy. One award of $1,000 is presented annually to a JSGS University of Regina or University of Saskatchewan graduate student.

Support students in their academic and professional pursuits by contributing to the JSGS Alumni Association Award fund: https://www.uregina.ca/alumni-and-friends/giving/give-now-faculty-jsgspp.html