A proud Mi’kmaq from Ugpi’Ganjig First Nation, Daniel Smith is deeply connected to his heritage and fueled by a desire to help others. His passion to make a difference is evident in his work and is transforming the way cultural support is provided within Correctional Service Canada (CSC). His smile immediately brightens as he shares, “I have a passion for helping people out.”
Since graduating from NBCC’s Justice Studies: Police Foundations program in 2014, he has been a driving force in advocating for Indigenous rights and cultural awareness within the justice system. Starting as a correctional officer in provincial corrections, Daniel recognized the limited access to cultural services for offenders. Determined to create change, he began asking insightful questions and seeking solutions towards advancing traditional healing paths. This dedication led him to join CSC as an Indigenous Liaison Officer, where he worked closely with Elders and Indigenous staff to help offenders reconnect with their cultural roots. By supporting individuals on a traditional healing path, Daniel guided them toward successful reintegration into their home communities.
Today, Daniel is a Project Officer for Indigenous Initiatives (Atlantic Region) at CSC, a role that combines his passion for his heritage with his commitment to serving the community. He oversees a dozen Indigenous staff members who work directly with Elders to provide cultural supports to Indigenous, Metis and Inuit offenders. These services include ceremonies, one-on-one counseling, and building meaningful connections from the institution to their home communities. “We are not just assisting; we’re supporting Indigenous offenders along their healing journey” Daniel reflects. “What we’re doing is helping them heal from that intergenerational trauma and the lasting impacts of the residential school system.”
As part of this purposeful work, Daniel believes education is key to being successful in the work they do. As a national trainer for CSC, he trains new correctional officers on the impacts of intergenerational trauma, equipping them to better understand and respond appropriately to offenders’ needs. Daniel also delivers presentations at NBCC, sharing insights about Indigenous history, culture, and the overrepresentation of Indigenous people within our federal institution. “We want to educate, we want people to learn, and ask questions,” he shares.
Beyond his professional life, Daniel’s passion for helping others extends into all aspects of his life and community. He works with the Ugpi’Ganjig First Nation Band Council and the Social Development Officer to secure housing for community members. He also volunteers with the Miramichi Ground Search & Rescue, further giving back to his community and making a positive impact where he can.
Daniel’s career path and volunteer work demonstrates how he consistently uses each day to uplift and empower those around him. He’s not only making a difference—he’s fostering hope, restoring cultural pride, and transforming lives and communities.
For his efforts in transforming lives and communities, Daniel was one of four NBCC alumni to receive a 2024 NBCC Alumni Recognition Award.
