Originating from Iskatewizaagegan 39 Independent First Nation, discovers solace and empowerment through basketball. Her evolution, from combating solitude to attaining self-assurance, epitomizes the sport's transformative influence. Mandamin now shares her basketball journey to motivate Indigenous youth across Canada, emphasizing its crucial role in providing hope and opportunity amid intergenerational trauma. Her path in basketball has traversed Turtle Island, including three years in the United States before joining the University of Manitoba Bisons, where she has found both a home and a vital role within her team. Her advocacy highlights Indigenous communities' resilience and the necessity for representation in sports. Mandamin's narrative shines a light on basketball's profound impact and her unwavering commitment to uplifting the next generation through the game.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba Kernagan is Metis on her father's side, St. Laurent Region. She grew up playing with Winnipeg Fury, Centre for Performance (TAP), and the Manitoba Provincial Team in the summer time. She attended Sturgeon Heights Collegiate and was named the 2019 Provincial AAAA Female Basketball Player of the Year. Kernagan then committed to the University of Winnipeg, where she was honoured to be named to the U-Sport All Rookie Team in her first year. She has now just finished her fourth year with the Wesmen. This year she was lucky enough to be named team captain and awarded team MVP. She also enjoys coaching and helping out with Zaagi’idiwin Sport Performance in her my spare time!