Dr. Andrew Volk's Bio

Andrew Volk is a proud Métis Albertan and member of the Métis Nation of Alberta with the traditional names of Ducharme, Gladue, and Anderson. His family hails from the Red River. He was born in Region 3 of the Métis Nation of Alberta, situated in Treaty 7 territory and now resides in Region 4 in Treaty 6 territory. Andrew is a psychiatry resident at the University of Alberta.

Andrew has been actively involved in numerous projects aimed at improving community, mental health and the well-being of his fellow Métis Albertans. From being one of the first camp leaders in the Métis Youth Culture Camp to his contributions to the Métis-Trauma Informed Course for Child and Family Services (CFS) to traveling to remote Métis communities to combat the opioid crisis with harm-reduction resources, Andrew has always sought to create change at both micro and macro levels.

One of Andrew's proudest collaborations is co-founding the Indigenous Medical and Dental Students' Association, the first of its kind in Canada. Andrew served as the first chair ( now termed president ), past-chair, and alumni representative continuously since founding the organization. This association strives to create a supportive network for Indigenous students pursuing careers in all programs in the faculty of medicine and dentistry, that is grounded in distinctions based traditional values and ways of knowing.

His work also includes spearheading the Métis Nation of Alberta Human Library Project, inspired by a similar initiative at the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry. By collecting and disseminating the stories and experiences of Métis individuals, Andrew sought to bridge cultural divides and increase understanding. 

Andrew's vision for the future is one that encompasses collaboration, mentorship, and community engagement. He plans on working in the rural Métis community in addiction and mental health. With a keen focus on enhancing near-peer mentorship at the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, he aspires to create an inclusive and nurturing environment that nurtures the growth and development of aspiring healthcare professionals. In his role as a Resident Lead for Student Support and Mentorship with the FoMD’s Wapanachakos Indigenous Health Program, Andrew meets with current and prospective medical students. His goal is to remove barriers and guide learners within the FoMD, creating a space where students and residents can thrive, collaborate, and contribute to the betterment of healthcare.