CONTEMPORARY INDIGENOUS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE ISSUE 111
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to circulation dept: Kildonan Place, RPO Box 43084, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R2C 5G7
2021 Indigenous
Career Guide Land Your Dream Job A Passion for Flight Leads to a Career with NASA Three Fires Collaborative Quest in Tourism DISPLAY UNTIL JAN 1, 2022
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New Joint Initiative, The Three Fires Collaborative Quest, Supports the Growth of Ontario’s Indigenous Tourism Workforce
CONTENTS ISSUE 111 CAREER DEVELOPMENT
SAY MAGAZINE Volume 20, Issue 5 SAY Magazine publishes six times a year: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, as well as two special editions, including the annual Education Guide for Indigenous students. SAY Magazine is published by Spirit of Youth Enterprises Inc.
Submissions are welcome. Articles, letters, queries, etc. should be sent by email to the editor at editor@saymag.com. SAY Magazine assumes no responsibility for submitted material.
Mailing Address: Kildonan Place, RPO Box 43084 Winnipeg, MB Canada R2C 5G7
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E: info@saymag.com www.saymag.com
Graphics, photographs, editorial content and other printed material are the property of SAY Magazine and may not be used without the written permission of SAY Magazine.
Publishers: Dominick Blais and Kent Brown Editor-in-Chief: Danielle Vienneau editor@saymag.com Editorial Team: Terra MacPhail terra@saymag.com Cheliza Crawford cheliza@saymag.com Sarah Ritchie sarah@saymag.com Theresa Peters theresa@saymag.com
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Meet John Herrington—the First Indigenous Astronaut in Space into a Green 8 Pivoting Career Author 14 Award-Winning Shane Koyzan
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Meet Cree Translator Solomon Ratt
18 Skills Training for Success Being an Author: 21 On Katherena Vermette
24 Music Steps Towards 28 Action Reconciliation Campaign 30 National Champions Messages of Acceptance
32 Job Search Tools 50 Advertiser Index
SAY Magazine acknowledges that we publish in Treaty One Territory, at the crossroads of the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene Nations, and at the heart of the Métis Nation homeland.
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Check Out these Tips on how to Flip the Script to Land Your Dream Job
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SAY Magazine’s 2021 Career Guide
CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 3
EDITOR’S MESSAGE “Stand strong with your bare feet on the ground and with everything that comes from it. Be smarter every day by listening to your intuition, looking at the world with your forehead. Jump, dance, sing, so that you live happier. Heal yourself, with beautiful love, and always remember ... you are the medicine.” - María Sabina
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change or advance your career, the decisions and actions you take now will bring you one step closer to your desired job and lifestyle.
s I sit down to write this message, I am humbled by my surroundings, grateful for the changing colours I see outside my window, for the wind softly blowing the leaves from the trees and for the incredible opportunities that this season affords us. While some may dread the arrival of cooler and shorter days, I am choosing to embrace the possibilities of what lies ahead, the symbolism of autumn—embracing a time of change, preservation, mindfulness, balance and a little mystery, as life is filled with unknowns.
Welcome to SAY Magazine’s Indigenous Career Guide edition. A complimentary companion to our annual Education Guide, this issue includes a Career Guide that lists institutions offering short-term programs, and transitional and vocational training opportunities from across Canada. Also featured are encouraging stories of professionals whose career paths were not always obvious or linear. We chose to share various interviews in this issue so that readers can easily get to the questions, and answers, that interest them most. Keep flipping for great tips, resources and inspiration.
Change often brings with it many uncertainties, but also opportunities for growth. There’s no better time than now to focus on bettering ourselves in various aspects of our lives, and that includes our careers. Whether you recently graduated high school, or are looking to
To the young adults who are reading this publication, you play the biggest role in choosing your own path to success. Your future is brilliant—grab a hold of it! Danielle Vienneau, Editor-in-Chief
2021 - 2022 Upcoming Issues Issue Name
Issue #
Theme
Space Reservation
Material Deadline
Publication Dates
Winter
112
Business & Economics
Nov. 1
Nov. 8
Dec. 15
Special Edition
113
20th Anniversary
Jan. 4
Jan. 8
Feb. 15
Spring 2022
114
Sovereignty
Mar. 1
Mar. 8
Apr. 15
Summer 2022
115
Arts & Entertainment
May 1
May 8
Jun. 15
Fall 2022
116
Tourism & Cuisine
Jul. 1
Jul. 8
Aug. 15
Special Edition
117
Education Guide
Sep. 1
Sep. 8
Oct. 15
Advertise with us! Contact: megan@saymag.com or terra@saymag.com. Dates subject to change. Order your subscription today. Visit saymag.com. 4 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2021/22 SEP 22-JUN 5
NOV 30
NOV 1-30
JAN 18-20
Sho Sho Esquiro: Doctrine of Discovery Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art presents the solo exhibition by award-winning designer, artist and activist Sho Sho Esquiro. billreidgallery.ca Native American Heritage Month Several national organizations and museums join in paying tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans. nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov
Workforce Forward Virtual conference focused on Indigenous inclusion training, employment strategies and best hiring practices for HR professionals and business owners. workforceforward.ca 19th Annual BC Natural Resources Forum Collaborate and exchange ideas on building and maintaining a resilient natural resource sector. bcnaturalresourcesforum.com
NATOA Youth Summit Virtual event. Indigenous Youth (ages 18-35) across Turtle Island are invited to a gathering to learn from thought leaders and change markers online with lots of prizes to be won. natoa.ca/events/indigenous-youth-summit
JAN 24-26, FEB 4 (Bonus Day - Virtual) Cannexus22: National Career Development Conference In-person and virtual. Bringing career development communities together to convene, share and learn. Key themes: pandemic recovery, social justice and career development for public good. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada cannexus.ceric.ca
NOV 17-19
MAR 1-3
NOV 15-17
CIAJ Conference on “Indigenous Peoples and the Law” In-person and virtual. Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice’s 45th National Conference will focus on the important issue of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of Canada. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada ciaj-icaj.ca/en/upcoming-programs
NOV 24-26
Indspire: National Gathering for Indigenous Education Virtual event. Theme: “A Shared Responsibility: Charting a Course for our Tomorrow.” indspire.ca/events/national-gathering
SHARE Investor Summit 2022 Join Indigenous investors and asset owners as we shift capital markets towards sustainability, justice, reconciliation and resilience. events.share.ca
APR 10-12
Leadership Summit - American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) In-person. STEM students and leaders learn the knowledge, tools, and wisdom to pursue their career and academic goals. Pechanga Resort Casino, Temecula, California aises.org
SAY Magazine has made every effort to ensure our calendar of events is up to date; however, we encourage you to check event websites regularly for updates due to interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. CAREER CAREER DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT ll OCT OCT 2021 2021 || 55
TRAINING
Three Fires Collaborative Quest
Supporting Careers in Tourism The Three Fires Collaborative Quest is a joint initiative aimed at supporting Ontario’s Indigenous tourism workforce to recover and grow the industry by building the labour pool and filling critical gaps. The program is the result of a partnership between the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) and the Ontario Tourism Education Corporation (OTEC).
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hen the COVID-19 pandemic hit Canada in early 2020, the tourism and service industry were among the hardest hit, primarily due to all of the government-mandated restrictions. With the persistence of the virus and increasing interventions continuing well into 2021, many Indigenous businesses in the tourism industry fell victim to
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lost revenue, paired with sometimes increased operating costs and, as a result, job insecurity. Unfortunately, the hospitality and tourism sector had been experiencing labour shortages long before the pandemic, which then exacerbated the situation. Over the last two years, this has all led to some businesses having to close temporarily while some had to close their doors permanently.
With the easing of restrictions and the foreseeable future in mind, many businesses in the tourism sector have been finding ways to prepare for the influx of domestic and backyard tourism. Some operators may find themselves unprepared for the demands that will be placed on them due to the easing
TRAINING of restrictions and the new tourism landscape. With Ontario Indigenous tourism businesses in mind, The Three Fires Collaborative Quest was created. The Three Fires Collaborative Quest has been designed to build capacity in the tourism workforce for the 2022 season with opportunities for tourism operators and Indigenous employees to participate. The program will be executed in three phases, each managed by one of the three respective partners.
Igniting the Three Fires Fire One: Fall 2021
ITO’s Indigenous Business Advisory (IBA) Program will assist Indigenous tourism businesses in improving marketreadiness for the next season by providing support and one-on-one coaching. The program will address all areas of a tourism operation for business sustainability and success, and will follow market-ready standards established specifically for the Indigenous tourism industry.
Fire Two: Fall 2021
The second fire, managed by OTEC, will design and execute workshops to provide customized frontline, supervisory, and management training for over 100 Indigenous tourism employees, as well as those identified through the IBA group.
Fire Three: Winter 2021
The third fire, executed by TIAO, is an employee-to-employer matching event designed to bridge the gap between the other two fires by helping Indigenous tourism employees find employers, and conversely, tourism businesses (both Indigenous and non-Indigenous) find employees. In addition, upon completion of the program, employers will be eligible to receive wage subsidies.
development but also in job matching with operators for the 2022 season. The interactive workshops, online tools and coaching sessions will provide invaluable training for those in frontline, supervisory and ownership positions. The Three Fires program will aid employers by providing immediate financial support in the form of wage subsidies, which will enable Ontario operators to hire 125 Indigenous employees collectively. With programs like the Three Fires Collaborative Quest, we are excited about the future of Indigenous tourism in Canada.
Program Benefits
For employees, whether you are just starting in the tourism industry or already have experience but are seeking new opportunities within the industry, this program will not only aid in skill
For more information about IBA 2.0 and the Three Fires Program, visit indigenoustourismontario.ca/a-three-firescollaborative-quest/# or contact Kimberly Gorgichuk, IBA Program Coordinator, at IBA@IndigenousTourismOntario.ca.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 7
DEVELOPMENT
On an individual basis, I can mentor youth who are trying to decide what they want to become,” he said. “Growing up, we didn’t have many mentors like First Nation foresters. Today, there are more and more!
Pivoting into a Green Career Submitted by Project Learning Tree Canada
After graduating high school, Dean Assinewe moved to Toronto to work for a pharmaceutical company. It was a good job, but he would find himself thinking about how much he wanted to go home and be outdoors.
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s a youth, Assinewe, who is a member of Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, joined Ontario’s Junior Ranger Program, which gave young people experience in the natural resources sector. Assinewe’s father, a trapper in his youth, also had a big influence on his connection to nature.
After having lived in Toronto and Ottawa for a while, Assinewe decided to go home and reconnect with the natural resources sector. First, he earned a Forest Technician Diploma at Sault College, then an Honours Bachelor of Science in Forestry at Lakehead University and, finally, he became a Registered Professional Forester (RPF).
“We spoke quite a bit about his experience and his spiritual relationship with the land,” Assinewe said about his father. “In our culture, we’re all connected. The animals are our relations. It’s important to have a fundamental respect for them.”
The Path Is Not Linear
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After pursuing further education, Assinewe landed a position as a forestry intern with the Ministry of Natural Resources in Thunder Bay, then as an operations forester/forestry program manager for North Shore Tribal Council, and then as a
minerals development coordinator/forester for Sagamok Anishnawbek. But then there was a downturn in the forest sector. Assinewe decided to pivot his career pathway and ended up working in hydro power, renewable energies, private consulting and Indigenous relations. It may not have been the path he envisioned as a student at Sault College or Lakehead University, but because he had an open mind and was willing to adapt, he
DEVELOPMENT gained a vast network, tons of knowledge and career success.
date, over 200 people have participated in a PLT Canada mentorship program.
traditions, and how we develop our natural resources,” he said.
Now, Assinewe works as an Indigenous opportunities advisor for Project Learning Tree Canada (PLT Canada), where he helps Indigenous communities and businesses gain access to PLT Canada Green Jobs wage-matching and skills training funds, and finds time to foster future leaders.
Mentorship is a great way to grow the forest and conservation sector, and build a diverse and resilient Green Jobs workforce. And Assinewe thinks it’s important that First Nations, Métis and Inuit youth see role models in the forest and conservation sector.
Read more about Assinewe’s pathway— and 11 other First Nation and Inuit leaders in the forest, conservation and parks sectors—in PLT Canada’s Guide to Green Jobs in Canada: Voices of Indigenous Professionals. This free 60-page resource is available in English, French, Anishinaabemowin and Plains Cree.
Mentoring the Next Generation
With more than 20 years of experience in forest management, research, renewable energy development, forest inventory and silviculture, Assinewe is helping mentor the next generation. He has volunteered as a PLT Canada Green Mentor, sharing advice with young people looking to break into the forest and conservation sector. PLT Canada’s Green Mentor program uses an industry-leading algorithm to match youth ages 18–30 with Green Jobs professionals, based on personalities, learning styles, goals, locations, interests and existing skills. To
“On an individual basis, I can mentor youth who are trying to decide what they want to become,” he said. “Growing up, we didn’t have many mentors like First Nation foresters. Today, there are more and more!”
Taking the Lead in the Forest and Conservation Sector
Assinewe also said it’s important for Indigenous Peoples to be involved in Canada’s forest and conservation industry. “If First Nations can help take a lead in how development happens, Canada and the rest of the world will be better for it. We have to draw careful connections between our environment, culture and
Project Learning Tree Canada (PLT Canada) is a bilingual charity committed to fostering inclusive environmental education, and growing a diverse and resilient Green Jobs workforce, using trees and forests as windows to the world. Their environmental education and professional development services, which include high-value work experiences and an industry-leading mentorship program, support youth across Canada on their green career pathways, including those in rural, Indigenous and urban communities. PLT Canada is an initiative of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).
CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 9
PROFILE
A Passion for Flight Leads to a
Journey into Space By Danielle Vienneau
Have you ever dreamt of becoming an astronaut? Of flying into space and looking back at the earth? Maybe you turned a cardboard box into your very own space shuttle as a child. Well, that’s exactly what John Herrington did when he was young, but he never dreamt he would actually become an astronaut. So what does it take to become an astronaut? In this interview, Herrington leads us through a journey of discovery—from uncovering his strengths and passion for flying, to taking chances and trusting the process which led him to the career he never knew he wanted.
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errington was born in the small town of Wetumka, Oklahoma, USA, into the Chickasaw Nation. In 2002, when he made his 13-day voyage to the International Space Station aboard the space shuttle Endeavor, he became the first Native American in space. With three space walks under his belt, Herrington retired from the Navy and NASA in July 2005 but has continued to lead a busy life giving back, educating others and speaking professionally all across the USA and with the International Indigenous Speakers Bureau. Over the last few years, he has filmed an IMAX film called Into the Nature’s Wild, and he’s flown more than 30 types of aircrafts over his lifetime, including F18s, jets and an Airbus 380 simulator. Here’s more about his journey to becoming an astronaut. SAY: You tried a few things before discovering the career path that was right for you. What was the spark that steered you in the right direction? Herrington: After attempting to go to college the first time, when I thought I would become a forest ranger, I spent more time outside climbing than studying for school. I ended up with D’s in biology and Western civilization, and a 1.72 GPA by the end of my second semester, which got me suspended. So I took some time off and I got a job working in a restaurant in Texas—I figured out very quickly that working in that industry wasn’t for me. I eventually put my rock climbing skills to use and got a job working in Glenwood Canyon in Colorado, where my job was to rappel off cliffs and hold a piece of
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glass against the rocks. The survey team on the ground would then shoot an infrared beam of light at the prism I held in my hand. That was the first spark—I wanted to know how it all worked! I was essentially learning trigonometry on the side of a cliff with a bunch of people who were getting paid to do this kind of work, and I loved it! Because I was intrigued by what I was doing, I decided to go back to school to become an engineer. I reapplied to university, and, sure enough, they let me back in.
Flying is the one thing that keeps my heart thumping. SAY: So how did engineering lead to flying? Herrington: Now, back in school, I had a form of motivation that I didn’t have before. I could see the practical nature of what I was doing, and I had found a group of friends who were interested in the same things I was. It all made a huge difference. Three years later, I was working in the math department and I ended up tutoring a retired Navy captain who had flown in World War II. He asked me what I was going to do when I graduated and asked me if I’d ever thought about flying for a living. Now, I had grown up flying with my dad who was a pilot, and my mom flew as well. I took for granted the fact that flying was something I got to do as a kid. I didn’t realize that I could do it for a
living. It wasn’t until I met someone who was doing something I admired and who encouraged me to do something out of my comfort zone that I even considered flying as an option. I joined the Navy in 1983, was commissioned as an aviation officer about a year later, and got my Wings of Gold in 1985. SAY: How did you get the job with NASA? Herrington: Once I realized becoming an astronaut was even a possibility, I knew I needed to stay in the Navy, graduate from Test Pilot School, and get an advanced degree, so I got my Masters of Aeronautical Engineering. After applying to NASA a second time, they called me for an interview and I went through an intense week-long interview process, including psychological testing and physicals, and an hour-long interview with people who walked on the moon. It’s a little intimidating to sit across the table from someone you’ve seen on TV and you want their job. NASA also did a thorough, three-layers-deep background check before I got hired for flight testing and engineering. SAY: What does an astronaut do? Herrington: As an astronaut, your job is to support all of the astronauts—to support everyone else flying into space,
PROFILE
and then you get your turn, however long it may be. I worked at the space centre preparing vehicles for flight, strapping my friends in, watching them fly into space, and making sure they made it home. As an engineer, you’re the eyes and ears of the astral office—you represent the astral office in any technical issues that come up with the space shuttle or at the space station. Then you get assigned to a flight, and you dedicate your time to that crew learning the mission. SAY: How does your love of science and your Native American culture complement one another? Herrington: My ancestors gave me the opportunity to walk this earth. They made the right decisions at the right times that ensured our survival. Our ancestors, on this continent way back in the day, were engineers and scientists— they were building things and making structures. They knew how to survive. It’s important to be grateful. I always tell students, “Being a problem solver is in your DNA—it’s what your ancestors did.” My tribe, through good leadership, had to make decisions throughout their existence that allowed them to survive, and they are doing incredibly well now— they had to overcome terrible odds. SAY: What does it mean to you to be the first Native American in space? Herrington: When I came to NASA, that was a position I didn’t realize I was in. It didn’t dawn on me until someone from the employment office pointed out that I was the first member of a recognized tribe to be working there. I realized I was in a unique position to be able to be a role model for others—it’s a responsibility I took to heart. I think it’s important for kids to see people they can identify with and realize, “If that person can do it, why not me?” I was initially kicked out of college, but once I had the motivation, I certainly figured it out. For someone to be able to identify with that, it makes their path more realistic. You don’t realize that what you do may have an impact on someone else’s life. That role as an
astronaut for me has been so important because it makes me feel like I’m doing something positive in the world. If I’m put on this earth by the Creator to do something to help others, then that’s where I’m at. SAY: What have you learned as an astronaut? Herrington: The universe is vast. It’s expanded my visual and emotional horizons. We live on this beautiful planet. We need to protect it, preserve it and take care of it because it’s all we have. The idea of going to Mars is great—exploration is great—but we need to take care of our own planet before we go somewhere else. We learn our lessons here. We need to value science and value the fact that there are some very smart people who can solve some really difficult problems to make life on earth viable. All of this came from going to space. I gained a much bigger, broader perspective on life because of this opportunity. SAY: Is there a highlight from your career that you are most proud of? Herrington: From a professional perspective, it’s certainly flying in space. It’s that feeling of being trained to do something and doing it well in a harsh environment. One of my mentors reminded me, “At some point in time, stop and just look around you. Sear the image of what you’re doing in your mind because you’ll never get that chance again.
It will carry you much farther along than a picture ever will.” I remember hanging off the end of the space station for the first time in my life, looking over at the earth, when there was nothing between me and whatever else was out there. It gives you a whole different perspective. It was a goosebump moment, and I feel fortunate to have been there. SAY: What advice would you give to young people trying to choose a career? Herrington: Find something that really motivates and excites you. Find somebody who is doing something that you think is interesting and talk to them—it may take you down a path that leads you to something you didn’t expect, to another door. The trick is to walk through that door. I joined the Navy to fly airplanes because it was exciting. I didn’t join to be an astronaut, even though I had dreamt about it. Thankfully, I had other opportunities to do more exciting things that led me to the astronaut office—my path was not linear. I think that’s the case for the majority of us. The important thing to remember for anyone reading this is your dream can become a reality given the decisions you make. It’s not just about yourself, it’s also about how others help you. If people hadn’t helped me outside of my normal circle of friends, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. Danielle Vienneau is the Editor-in-Chief with SAY Magazine. To submit your story, email editor@saymagazine.com. CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 11
EMPLOYMENT
Flip the Script to Land your Dream Job By Tory McNally
While some people land jobs by walking past a Help Wanted sign in a window, there are better ways than chance to ensure you get the job you have been dreaming of. Do not wait for the job to come to you. Here are some tips to take your job search to the next level, hopefully getting you one step closer to landing your dream job.
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Make a plan
Make a list of companies you want to work for and try to connect with someone there. A referral from an employee is often given more weight, and you can get the early scoop on what openings are becoming available.
Take the time to set your social media life in order
I am sorry to report that employers are googling you! Make sure you are presenting a professional, up-to-date profile on LinkedIn, as it is the
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most used professional networking site. If you’re asking yourself, “What’s LinkedIn?” then I suggest you start your Google search now and begin building your professional profile. Spend some time building connections, adding content and following leaders who you respect.
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Schedule informational interviews
Ask to meet people you admire to talk about their jobs and the companies they work for. If you approach them with respect and curiosity, they will
often be happy to spare 15 minutes to chat about how great their company is and what is expected of them in their role. It allows you to learn insider information about companies on your dream list. During the age of COVID, you can use these interviews to practice video meetings so you are familiar with the format and any technical glitches you may encounter. And please, move the camera so it is not positioned up your nose!
EMPLOYMENT
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Figure out what hiring managers need and show that you can take care of it for them
People often make the mistake of talking exclusively about themselves and their past experiences during interviews. The common question “Why do you want to work here?” is one that so many candidates misinterpret. What the hiring manager is really asking is: “What do you know about our company, and what can you walk in and deliver for us?” Answer that and you will be sure to impress. Organize your cover letter and resume to clearly show why you are perfect for the role based on the posting and what you know about the company. Do not leave it for the resume screener to put the pieces together for you; present yourself as the solution to their hiring problem. This does mean that you need to customize your resume to every application, but having
the right key words will pass the screeners with flying colours.
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Learn continuously
Show that you are proactive and always updating your resume by being curious. Taking courses is helpful, but there is a lot you can do outside the classroom to make you a great catch. Employers are looking for people who will add diversity and interest to their workplace culture. Showing that you are open to new experiences is a trait that hiring managers are looking for.
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Be patient and kind to yourself
Set realistic goals. For example, making one new connection per week can make you feel you are making progress towards your goal. Dream jobs do not come up every day, so you may need to bide your time.
There are recruiters who can help! A good recruiter will help you with your resume, inform you of opportunities and upsell you to hiring managers. A good recruiter who is knowledgeable about your industry is invaluable. Lean on friends and family. Searching for a job can be hard and you will experience rejection, especially if you are competing for specialized roles. Do not dwell on the bad because you may never know the reasons why you did not get the offer. Just keep trying: growing your network, customizing your resume to the posting and remaining curious about all of those dream companies out there. You just need one to say yes.
Tory McNally is a Chartered Professional in Human Resources and the Director of Human Resources Services at Legacy Bowes Group.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 13
LITERATURE
Inconvenient Skin Author, Shane L. Koyczan Cree Translation, Solomon Ratt
SAY Magazine celebrates those who continue to keep our stories and languages alive through various mediums, particularly through literature. Earlier this year, Inconvenient Skin won a CODE Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Young Adult Literature in the Indigenous Languages Category. In honour of their contributions and great work, we are pleased to share just a snippet of our interview with both the author, Shane Koyczan, and the translator, Solomon Ratt.
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or people to talk to—growing up socially ostracized makes that really difficult. You don’t develop the same sort of social utilities that everyone else tends to learn in school. I remember coming home from school one day and being really upset, and my grandmother asked me, “Why are you so upset?” I told her, “I don’t have anyone to talk to.” I remember feeling very alone. So she went and grabbed a notebook, and said, “Will you talk to this? You can tell it anything, and it’s never going to judge you based on what you look like or what clothes you wear, or any of those things.” That’s what got me started with writing. It has become a form of therapy. When you can start to nail pieces of yourself to the page, I think that it helps you reflect on a lot of things—that’s what writing has done for me. As I got older, I started to change some of that writing into structures, be it short stories or poetry, and I have been lucky to be able to make a career out of it.
SAY: When did you start writing and how did that transition into a career? Koyczan: I started fairly early on. When I was young I didn’t have a lot of friends
SAY: What inspired you to write Inconvenient Skin? Koyczan: A great number of things. I was at an art show at the Penticton Art Gallery, where my friend Paul Crawford is the curator, and he was putting on a show about residential schools. As I went through the show, I found it very affecting. It was also something in my past that I hadn’t really addressed, given my relationship with my dad and what he went through. Besides that, I grew up in the Catholic school system, and it was something that was never taught or talked about. When we did learn Indigenous history, it was slanted and very one-sided,
hane Koyczan is a writer, poet and spoken word artist. He has performed around the globe at universities, and at music and literary festivals. His writing and performances are vital, witty and sincere; he reaches the hearts of his audiences with his powerful verses and has brought the Canadian spoken word movement to the international stage. Koyczan was born in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, and grew up in Penticton, British Columbia, where he currently lives and works. He has published several books, including Visiting Hours, Stickboy, Our Deathbeds will be Thirsty, To This Day: For the Bullied and Beautiful, A Bruise On Light and Visiting Hours.
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Inconvenient Skin is a collection of poetry written in English and translated into Cree. The poems aim to unpack the challenges of the dark side of Canada’s history and to clean the wounds so the nation can finally heal. Powerful and thought-provoking, this collection will draw you in and make you reconsider Canada’s colonial history. The cover features the art of Kent Monkman, and the interior features work by Joseph Sanchez and Jim Logan, and photographs by Nadya Kwandibens.
LITERATURE
so I wanted to put something out that addressed a lot of what I missed in school. SAY: Congratulations on winning the CODE Burt Award for the Indigenous Language Category. What does this mean to you? Koyczan: Thank you. The main driving force behind the book, and why it was published, is a man named Greg Younging. Greg was the force behind Theytus, which is the longest-running Indigenous publishing house in Canada. Being recognized for this book is significant because for the longest time I felt like I shouldn’t be taking up space in this conversation—that there are voices and experiences more important than my own. Greg was the person that turned me around on that and told me why my experience was so important. A lot of the thanks and praise should go to Greg Younging, who unfortunately passed away just days before the book was released.
I am sorry he didn’t get to see and appreciate the fruits of his labour. I owe a lot to him and a deep debt of gratitude. SAY: What advice do you have for youth who are inspired by your work and want to start writing? Koyzan: Keep everything you write! Some of it is going to be embarrassing and angsty, but it’s a great marker to chart your growth. A lot of the times when you are writing, you don’t necessarily think you are growing or stretching yourself, but it turns out you are. I look back at the stuff I wrote when I was a kid, and obviously there are miles and miles of improvement. The other thing is to write everyday. You don’t have to write a novel, but just get in the habit of writing. That’s why journaling was so important to me— it created that arena where I could write a stream of consciousness, or a poem, or just journal. Your writing becomes such a valuable resource to look back on—to
see who you were versus who you have become, because you do change in life. You go through things and your mind changes about all kinds of things as new information comes in. SAY: What do you love most about what you do? Koyczan: So much! It’s medicine for me. I use writing and performing to fight depression. One of the things I really love to do is live shows—touring and performing—which, unfortunately, has been rather critically curtailed at the moment given the pandemic. So I haven’t really worked in two years. Usually, when I get down in the dumps, I find a project and throw myself into it. It’s hard to find that motivation when all of a sudden you’ve been cut off from a very significant portion of what it is that you do. Another aspect that I love about what I do has to do with connection. When
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LITERATURE you grow up the way I do, you tend to internalize a lot, and there’s no real release for that until you can find others who are able to nod their heads and understand you in a way that is very personal. Until I started writing, there was just that sort of empty vacuum of “there’s nobody else around that understands me,” and that feeling tends to multiply inside of you. Doing shows, touring and writing all became very important parts of connecting myself to other people out there who are going through the same things that I was going through. Maybe not the exact same thing, but had an experience that was close. That has always made me feel less alone, so I put a great deal of import on that.
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olomon Ratt was born on the banks of the Churchill River in a trapper’s cabin just north of Stanley Mission, Saskatchewan. He went to the Prince Albert Indian Residential School and graduated from Riverside Collegiate in Prince Albert. He attended the University of Regina and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, as well as a Master of Arts in English. He has been teaching Cree language and Cree literature at First Nations University in Regina since 1986. He teaches all levels of Cree and Cree literature. Ratt is also a writer and a poet, including Woods Cree Stories and Beginning Cree, written as an introduction
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for Cree language learners, both published by University of Regina Press. SAY: Do you mind telling us more about your youth and your residential school experience? Ratt: I was taken away from my family at six years old, and I went to residential school in Prince Albert. I only ever spent two months out of the year at home with my parents in July and August. I never did experience any physical abuse by my teachers while in residential schools, but I was bullied by my classmates. It was very traumatic to be taken away from my family at such a young age. The loneliness, being away from my parents, was the worst thing that ever was. SAY: How did that impact you as an adult? Ratt: Well, every winter my parents would tell us sacred stories in Cree (they didn’t speak a word of English) from the time the snow fell until springtime. These stories were lessons on how to live in this world—how to be a parent and how to be a good spouse. This was my education, and it got interrupted by being taken away. I never got to hear those stories again. What I didn’t learn through my traditional stories led me to my alcoholism and drug addiction in my twenties, and my lack of parenting skills. Thankfully, my children turned out okay. But this happened because of the trauma experienced from being taken away from my family, away from my traditions and my culture. SAY: How did you get involved with translating Inconvenient Skin? Ratt: I was asked to participate in translating Inconvenient Skin last year. I was really busy, but the reason I decided to take this on was because of what I read on page 15:
SAY: How difficult, or easy, is it to translate from English to Cree? Ratt: It’s difficult! In order to be a good translator, you need to be able to know both languages fluently. In English, you run into concepts that don’t exist in Cree, so you have to find synonyms in English and then use what is most appropriate and translate it to Cree. Believe it or not, we don’t have a word for “residential school”. I have used the term “going away to school, far away from home” and most recently I used “church-run schools.” It’s definitely a challenge, but I am lucky because not only do I translate material but I teach translation classes, from Cree to English and English to Cree. I do still have to consult the Cree dictionary from time to time, especially for spelling. SAY: Do you have suggestions on how people can better learn their traditional languages? Ratt: If we could encourage people to read books in their language, their knowledge of their language would develop really fast. Literacy promotes language development, but the problem with Cree, with a lot of Indigneous languages, is there’s not a lot of opportunity to practice. Most people who want to speak their Indigenous language outside of the classroom need to continue learning on their own, reading and finding others to speak with. We have to use the resources available to us, and we have to be determined and interested enough to put the time in. Joining storytelling groups is a great way to learn as well—this is something I often facilitate. There are many different dialects as well, so we have to be open-minded when learning. To see all of the CODE Burt Award winning titles, visit code.ngo/approach/ literary-awards.
“it is not love when an entire culture is told stop whining by a country still lining its pockets with the profits of these broken promises” I read that in English, and I thought, “This is something I could really get into.” Translating stories like this has become part of my healing.
Interview by Danielle Vienneau. Photos and biographies courtesy of CODE.
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TRAINING
Skills Training for Success
From Graduation to Employment Sponsored by the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology
Along the path to choosing a career you will encounter several steps and decisions to make, not least of which being where and what you will study in pursuit of your professional goals.
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explained MITT’s Acting Coordinator of Career Development Services David Driver. “It’s definitely one of the most valuable benefits for students because they get these sessions as part of their training.”
At the end of the journey lies graduation—a moment that is equally celebratory and intimidating as you prepare for the transition to your career. Making the jump from classroom to workplace, whether you have been in a work environment up to this point or not, is a scary venture forward, but all the invested time and energy will pay off when you get that first job offer.
The sessions students take part in, collectively known as the Work Skills Series, teach employability skills, job search techniques, resume preparation and how to excel in interviews. These sessions, as Driver explained, have been developed and tailored to each program. Of the four areas, Driver noted that one in particular gets the most attention following in-class training— resume preparation. “It is the area in which students need the most guidance,” he said. “Many students may have never written a professional resume before, and we want to make sure everyone has the best chance to make a great first impression with a tailored resume that gets them to the next step, the interview.”
t a career-focused college like the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT), this will likely include choosing your program, making time in your schedule for fun and networking, developing good study habits, and even testing your skills with a potential future employer through a work practicum.
Achieving this goal takes more than just studying and honing your technical skills. You need to find the job that’s right for you. Part of the process involves preparing your resume and application, and nailing that interview. MITT is here to help, providing every post-secondary student with training focused on helping them go from graduation to employment. “This is unique to MITT. A lot of institutions offer career services, but not many have it built into the curriculum,” 18 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Driver further explained, “In today’s competitive job market, going deeper than the straightforward resume submission and follow-up calls is necessary to secure employment.” This is why, during the Work Skills sessions, Driver and his associates emphasize the importance of building a network as a way to get a leg up on the competition and land a job.
“A lot of industries are looking for networking experience,” Driver said. “It’s not uncommon for students to have never networked before, and for that reason we introduce networking concepts in the job search training portion for many of the programs we offer.” Networking has become such an important job skill, especially when it comes to developing relationships, meeting prospective mentors, and gaining access to resources that will improve your skill set and advance your career development. “In today’s world, it’s not enough to submit a resume and wait for a phone call,” urged Driver. “It’s about being proactive and investing in connections. It’s phoning the employer and introducing yourself.” MITT offers 25+ certificate, diploma and postgraduate programs that will teach you the in-demand skills you need at any stage of your career. Start your new career in as little as five months! To learn more about MITT’s Work Skills Series and the full slate of opportunities, visit mitt.ca/career.
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PROFILE
Becoming an Author What better way to find out how one becomes an author than to speak with one directly? In this interview, award-winning Métis author from Treaty one territory Katherena Vermette offers some great tips on how to pursue writing.
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Photo credit: Vanda Fleury 2021
By Terra Kerani MacPhail
bestselling author in Canada, Vermette has written poetry, novels and children’s literature, and has worked in film. Her National Film Board documentary this river won the Canadian Screen Award for Best Short. Vermette is the author of the award-winning title The Break and its sequel, The Strangers, is being published this fall. With a Master of Fine Arts from the University of British Columbia, Vermette has extensive experience in the writing industry and happens to wear many hats in her life, including that of a busy mom living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Keep reading to learn more about her journey to discovering her love of writing and, ultimately, her dream job. SAY: What do you love about your chosen career? Vermette: It’s such a great job to have. Writing is my dream job! The fact that I get to do this for a living is amazing to me. I think there is a big appetite for books, and different types of books, and there are a lot of new genres out there, like graphic novels. I think that over the pandemic I have realized how much I appreciate creative content. I watch a lot of TV and read books. SAY: What advice do you have for aspiring writers? Vermette: For people who just want to write, I always say, “Just write.” When I was younger, I always carried around a journal and was constantly writing things down. I still do! Like anything, it CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 21
PROFILE takes practice to improve, so the more you write, the better. The only difference between a person that has a book out and people that don’t is that the first person actually writes. Also, you have to like writing! SAY: When did your journal writing shift toward writing about fictional characters? How do you relate to that process differently, and was this change natural for you? Vermette: It didn’t feel natural for me at first. I began by writing poetry, which is very autobiographical. Now, I’ve come to realize that everyone is made up of infinite stories. Even non-writers are making up a storyline about themselves and others all the time. So when I started writing fiction, it was still very much like journaling—I was just writing a different version of myself. And then it became really fun. I find all my characters are just versions of me. They are me with some different choices, or they took a different path and
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have different life experiences. I really try hard to not take from another person’s story, however. I try to keep really far away from the stories that don’t belong to me. SAY: Did you always plan to write a series of novels? Vermette: I didn’t plan to write The Break as a series, but I couldn’t get the characters out of my head. I wanted to do a lot of different projects, like my graphic novel, a picture book and a poetry book, and I didn’t want to rush any of them. All the touring that happened after The Break was so unexpected. So I had at least three years away from that story. But the story didn’t feel like it was done. I really took my time before returning to it. I find novel writing challenging, and the subject matter of these books is heavy, so I wanted to take steps consciously. SAY: Have you ever experienced market pressure to write a book quickly? Vermette: I write really slow and I like a lot
of space. If people try to rush me, I shut down and want to move even slower. I have a really great manager who is not interested in rushing me. I didn’t want to just churn things out. But I did write one graphic novel per year so I could have the time to do the research for each of the books since they are each a different chapter in Métis history. SAY: In The Break series, are all the women who are related to each other facets of the same person? Vermette: I really love ‘multiple points of view’ style novels. Despite them being different people, they are all related. As we all are related. My secret is that I am always writing about myself, but all authors are, actually. Poetry is all about what we are focused on and working through. Writing is about asking questions and getting answers for ourselves. I heard once that writers are asking one question over and over again. The role of the writer is to figure out what that question is.
PROFILE SAY: So then, what question are you trying to answer with your writing? Vermette: I think it is a question about trauma. How people can each experience a traumatic incident and each one can react differently. Also, I am asking, how do people overcome trauma? My answer is that we overcome trauma through the love of our family. As much as I focus on the bad stuff, I try to cram in a lot of good stuff. SAY: How do you deal with readers who have strong reactions to your more difficult subjects? Vermette: It’s interesting because I have received every kind of reaction to my books. Every person reacts to them in a completely different way. People always read themselves into what they are reading. It is always determined by what they are focused on. The Break was really hard because it was about the legacy of sexual violence in a marginalized community. I was convinced that it would get a horrible reception because of the violent story line. Instead, it was received very well. I got a lot of beautiful understanding. I was able to travel all over the world after it was published. I got an overwhelmingly positive reception, and it’s still selling very well.
SAY: How do you manage to write and focus as a busy mom? How do you structure your day? Vermette: I’m a total recluse, and a typical writer in that way. I usually work in my sunroom, not at a desk. I am fortunate to have a great daycare lady too! I don’t do any work until I am alone, and it’s just me and my dogs. I need lots of space and to be physically away from people to work, except when I’m on an airplane. I have done some great work on airplanes! I always work in the morning, so I always give myself that time before getting distracted by life. SAY: Other than writing, what takes up the majority of your work activities? Vermette: Promotional stuff and teaching. Those things activate a whole other part of my brain. There are so many distractions in life, especially with everyone at home due to the pandemic. I am lucky to have spent lots of years hustling when I was younger, being involved in the writing world and organizing groups. Back then, my only writing time was on weekends. Success is all about making time to do your art. It is so easy to do everything except your art. For anyone interested
in writing, be sure to take the time you need to perfect your craft. Terra Kerani MacPhail is Métis of Mushkegowuk (Swampy Cree), Scottish, Irish and Polish ancestry with roots in Cumberland House, SK and the Red River. She is the Director of Business Development for SAY Magazine. She can be reached by email at terra@saymag.com.
Looking for something good to read? The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline The Barren Grounds by David Robertson (for young readers ages 9-12) Ghost Lake by Nathan Niigaan Noodin Adler (short story horror, but just the right amount of scary!) Five Little Indians by Michelle Good Glorious Frazzled Beings by Angélique Lalonde
Here are Katherena’s Picks:
Moccasin Square Gardens by Richard Van Camp (featured in SAY Magazine, Issue 110) Love After the End: An Anthology of Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer Speculative Fiction edited by Joshua Whitehead Favourite Graphic Memoirs Fun Home by Alison Bechdel Tangles by Sarah Leavitt Dear Scarlet by Teresa Wong
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MUSIC
Adrian Sutherland Attawapiskat First Nation roots-rock artist Adrian Sutherland (of Midnight Shine) released his debut solo album on September 17, 2021. When The Magic Hits features stories never heard before and includes incredible written collaborations with the likes of Jay Semko (The Northern Pikes), Serena Ryder, Colin Cripps (Blue Rodeo) and Chris Gormley (The Trews).
From dreams of playing the big stage as a kid to coming to terms with the past, Sutherland shares it all on this nine-track album, including stories about his family, his wife and his community. “This album has a deeper meaning for me,” Sutherland said. “These songs allowed me to explore some personal stuff I’ve never been able to on past albums. Some of the themes are sensitive, but it was important for me to write about them, like fighting through loss and trauma, and learning to appreciate everything I have today, because it hasn’t always been clear to me.” After building his own recording studio in a sea can out of necessity during
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the pandemic, Sutherland was able to complete tracking for When The Magic Hits. He also finished scoring his first television series and began writing his first book for Penguin Random House Canada about growing up in Attawapiskat First Nation in Ontario—a remote community he still calls home. As the fascinating frontman and founder of all-Cree rockers Midnight Shine, Sutherland released four albums with the band before shifting to solo projects in 2019. He experienced early success with his singles “Politician Man” and “Respect the Gift”, both hitting #1 on the Indigenous Music Countdown. “Right Here”, the first single from Sutherland’s newest album, was released over the summer and has been earning national attention for its music video made from 1600 selfies.
A singer, songwriter, musician, writer, speaker and advocate, Sutherland is also a father of four and grandfather to four. He is a traditional knowledge keeper and a respected cultural leader, who is also fluent in Mushkegowuk Cree. Sutherland cares deeply about many causes, and is using his music and voice to share a first-hand perspective on issues facing First Nations, like contaminated water, housing shortages, food insecurity, addiction and mental health. At a time of growing awareness about reconciliation, Sutherland is hopeful for Canadians to better understand one another and take further steps together.
Photo credit: Judy Sutherland
MUSIC
Bobby Sanchez American-Peruvian artist Bobby Sanchez (she/her) is a talented 26 year old who identifies as two-spirit and transgender. Currently living in Tigua Land in the USA, she is a poet, musician, model and painter whose art covers topics of Indigenous identity, gender identity, environmental issues, immigration and gentrification.
Sanchez was born and raised in Lenape and Siwanoy land; however, her Indigenous blood comes from Ayacucho, Peru. She was taught about her native Wari culture from a young age and started attending New York City pow wows with her family at age four. Growing up with her Indigenous values, Sanchez began to realize the power of speaking up and the art of poetry around age seven. By the time she was 15, she began attending open mics and poetry slams. Her first break into the performance industry came in August 2018 when she was selected to perform at the National Poetry Slam in Chicago, Illinois.
After establishing herself in the industry as a spoken word artist, Sanchez began performing at various venues in the Northeast and completed her first winter tour in 2019. Over the course of the pandemic, Sanchez has continued to reach her fans through online performances and social media. Over the course of the last year, she released three EPs, Yaku, La Sala and Ita, with a total of 11 songs. Fans are encouraged to check out the single “Quechua 101 Land Back Please”, which is featured on the most recent EP, Ita. As a full-time artist performing mostly poetry, rap and hip hop, Sanchez also takes the time to teach music and poetry workshops at various New York schools and curates local shows in the New York area. As a fierce activist, Sanchez continues to break down barriers while educating others on the cultural colonization carried out by Europeans. She hopes her work will empower the Indigenous, two-spirit and transgender community.
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MUSIC
Jayli Wolf
Multi-award-winning and multifaceted Anishinaabe/Cree artist Jayli Wolf came out with her latest stand-alone release “Lead Me” on this year’s National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. The song, and its message of perseverance and strength when faced with adversity, couldn’t have been more perfect for September 30.
Wolf, who is also part of the powerful musical duo Once A Tree, recently began her solo journey and has bared some of the most intimate details of her life in her latest work. Her father was a victim of the Sixties Scoop, which played an instrumental role in her first solo release and accompanying short film Child of the Government. She has dedicated herself in part to discovering her Indigenous ancestry and culture, and in reaching others who have endured similar experiences. Wolf is also a survivor of a doomsday cult, thus a large part of her journey has been reclaiming the parts of her that were held captive before her escape. Her sophomore release “Hush” details some of the first steps towards redeeming her selfidentity and acts as a tool of illumination and validation for members of the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. Wolf ’s mix of powerful, almost sonnetlike, vocals and strong alternative-pop
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sound has been described as “a crossover between Phantogram, Crystal Castles and Chvrches” by Rolling Stone. Her sound is dark and powerful, with every note reverberating deep within. The video for “Lead Me”, directed and produced by Wolf, shares a more intimate look into the painful enticement of addiction and the need to escape an unfortunate reality. The single, with hardhitting lyrics and impactful instrumentals, shares the artist’s strong and personal message that resonates with many. She describes the video as a way of “...finding healing through reclaiming [her] culture and taking [her] power back. Breaking free from the chains of [her] past.” With her emotionally raw and relatable lineup of works, and her extended connection to people worldwide aided in part by her strong social media presence, Wolf has been able to create a platform for enlightenment, discussion and the discovery of personal pathways to healing.
MUSIC
Digging Roots JUNO Award-winning band Digging Roots are set to release their first album in five years, returning with a powerful message of hope. Zhawenim (pronounced JAH-WEN-IMM, and meaning ‘unconditional love’ in Ojibway Anishinaabemowin) features the already available single “The Healer”.
Records (pronounced ISH-KO-DAY), a new label founded by Kish and Amanda Rheaume, an independent singer/ songwriter and a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario respectively. “The Healer”, like a promise, assures future generations that one day, “We’ll dream in our language again.”
Digging Roots is made up of husband and wife duo ShoShona Kish (Batchewana First Nation, Ontario) and Raven Kanatakta (Winneway, Quebec). For over a decade, they have traveled the world with a joyful message of resistance, celebrating Anishinabe and Onkwehonwe traditions of round dance and interconnectedness interwoven with the bedrock sounds of blues, soul and rock n’ roll.
Together, Kish and Kanatakta have built a home for a talented community of players and collaborators, including their son drummer Skye Polson, and Hill Kourkoutis. More than a band, Diggings Roots have taken their place at the frontline of the fight for equity and representation in the arts, with involvement in industry advocacy and organization, including the International Indigenous Music Summit and Ishkōdé Records, working to empower arts communities worldwide.
Produced by Hill Kourkoutis, “The Healer” is the first release by Ishkōdé
Digging Roots breathe life into songs from Turtle Island, raising their voices in solidarity with a global chorus of Indigenous artists, activists and changemakers. A powerful force, they continue to be a step ahead, forging their own paths, making their own rules and inspiring future generations to do the same.
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Adrian Sutherland Bobby Sanchez Digging Roots Jayli Wolf
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RESOURCE
Action Steps Towards Reconciliation
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e are all Treaty People. The process of truth and reconciliation benefits all of us, and the founding of the first annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2021, is just the beginning towards making our world a better, safer place for everyone. However, taking time off work/school or wearing an orange shirt is not enough to create lasting change. It will take everyone to ensure we are successful in the reconciliation movement—the work is ongoing—there is no better time to
take action than today. It all starts with the truth, and a personal responsibility to learn and uncover for yourself the true genocidal history of Canada and Turtle Island. If you are Indigenous, these stories are in your bones. If you are a settler, they are in yours as well. SAY Magazine suggests three action steps you can take to get more involved, and we have compiled a short list of free and informative resources on residential schools that may provide insight and value to you during this time of discovery.
ACTIONS
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Take the time to learn about the history and peoples of the land you currently live on. And yes, there is an APP for that! land.codeforanchorage.org Find out if there is a Treaty in the territory where you live and learn about it. Treaties are contracts between sovereign nations. native-land.ca Contact your elected officials (municipal, provincial, federal) and ask them what they are doing to make positive change, and have the courage to have conversations with people in your life about why this process is so important, for all of us. represent.opennorth.ca/demo
RESOURCES
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation nctr.ca Assembly of First Nations – Its Our Time – Residential Schools Toolkit education.afn.ca/afntoolkit/learning-module/residential-schools Aboriginal Healing Foundation – Residential School Resources Directory ahf.ca/publications/residential-school-resources Indigenous Canada – Free University Course | University of Alberta ualberta.ca/admissions-programs/online-courses/indigenous-canada/index.html
SAY Magazine Team from left to right: Cheliza Crawford, Content Creator; Terra MacPhail, Director of Business Development; Kent Brown, Co-publisher; Danielle Vienneau, Editor-in-Chief; Dominick Blais, Co-publisher; Orli Gelfat, Art Director 28 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
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HEALTH
Soar Above Stigma Campaign Champions Messages of Kindness, Acceptance, Culture and Compassion
Today more than ever, First Nations Peoples suffer in silence with the ongoing battle against stigmas that affect their lives and mental health daily.
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hree Indigenous Health organizations, First Peoples Wellness Circle, Thunderbird Partnership Foundation and the First Nations Health Managers Association, have partnered with NationTalk to create the Soar Above Stigma Campaign. This campaign champions kindness, acceptance, culture and compassion for First Nations Peoples across Turtle Island. The campaign has been created with the
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intention of easing the tension of stigma due to fears surrounding COVID-19, along with escalating mental health issues and substance abuse due to addiction. By sharing Indigenous voices and perspectives, the campaign aims to propel Indigenous values of hope, belonging, meaning and purpose. Together, these organizations formed the Soar Above Stigma Campaign to support our communities when they need it most.
Research shows that when we are isolated, we experience more depression, anxiety, loneliness and physical ailments than when we are surrounded by a caring community. Many individuals avoid seeking treatment or support with
HEALTH managing mental health or addiction due to fear of being discriminated against and stigmatized. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all had to follow self-isolation protocols, creating a larger gap between the shame that silences us, and the love and support from the people in our lives. This shame makes us more susceptible to stigma from individuals in our communities, and the campaign seeks to address these issues at a grassroots level. Social distancing measures have forced many of us to live a large portion of our lives virtually, and with so much uncertainty, it is no wonder there is unfiltered fear, anger and misinformation being shared on social media and other platforms. Unfortunately, living with mental illness or addiction increases your vulnerability to the health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, including loss of social connection, greater anxiety, fear and isolation, creating a vicious cycle.
So, what happens when one in three Indigenous Peoples face challenges with mental wellness? The most serious consequence has been an increase in mortality of Indigenous Peoples during the pandemic, including death by suicide. This is an agonizing fact. No one deserves to be shamed into dying alone. Soar Above Stigma unites First Nations across the nation by recognizing that we truly need each other in order to alleviate the challenges we are facing. By sharing stories, interviews, images and videos of brave First Nations who have battled with mental illnesses and substance use disorders, Soar Above Stigma shatters the shame that fuels stigma. It’s never easy to share your story, and it is a privilege to have the opportunity to listen to another’s story. How do we demonstrate kindness, acceptance, culture and compassion to each other in order to prime ourselves for stories that will make us wiser? Soar Above Stigma reminds us that we are not alone.
The campaign steers Indigenous communities to consider the ways that finding meaning, belonging, purpose and hope heals trauma, and allows us to listen and be listened to. Sharing the stories of Serenity, Audrey, Harvey and Chevi is deeply rewarding because they shed light into a dark place, and having a dark place makes us human. By coming together with others and taking care of spirit through our connection to the land and our cultural teachings and traditional medicines, we recover. We heal. There is light at the end of the tunnel. The heroes who share their stories in the Soar Above Stigma inspire and empower us to speak up against stigma in our communities, and take care of ourselves and each other.
Submitted by the Soar Above Stigma Campaign.
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RESOURCE
Job Search Today, there is an increasing demand for Indigenous engagement in Canada’s workforce. Many companies are recruiting talented and competent Indigenous employees to help diversify and strengthen their workforces.
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n the hunt for a new job? If you’re not sure where to start, these online portals are designed to help you seek out a job that’s right for you. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it is intended to help you take the first step on your path to identifying your next career move.
Indigenous Link Careers
careers.indigenous.link
Aboriginal Job Board
aboriginaljobboard.ca
First Nations Jobs Online
firstnationsjobsonline.com
BIPOC Executive Search
bipocsearch.com
Job Bank - Indigenous
jobbank.gc.ca/indigenous
Indeed - Indigenous
ca.indeed.com/indigenous-jobs
InWork360
inwork360.com
You can also use LinkedIn to promote yourself and showcase your talents while connecting with human resource professionals, recruiters and potential employers directly. Now take a deep breath… you’ve got this!
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2021
How to Use the Career Guide As the new school year unfolds, we turn our attention to career development and the institutions that offer shorter term academic and vocational education and training. With a variety of settings and opportunities available, the goal of this guide is to provide additional resources in choosing a career path, developing new skills to change careers and/or to advance in your chosen field.
T
he material presented in this guide is different from our annual education guide in that it is organized first by a general category of interest, then by province and territory, and listed alphabetically. Institutions and training facilities that appear in this resource offer programs that can be completed over a two-year period, or less. The majority listed offer certificate and diploma programs, with some offering transitional and post-baccalaureate programs for those interested in pursuing a Masters Degree. In most cases, the programs listed offer Indigenous content and/or support for Indigenous students. The material presented comes from a variety of sources, including facilitators, counsellors and administrators. This guide is meant to be a quick reference tool providing
DEVELOPMENT 34 | CAREER GUIDE 2021 l OCT 2021
information, including website links, interesting programs and contact information for Indigenous student support staff (if readily available). For further information and a full description of the programs/services these institutions offer, you should always thoroughly review their websites. There you will discover more information than the SAY Magazine Career Guide is able to provide. We want to thank those institutions and organizations that replied to our survey and helped us gather the information within this guide. Although SAY Magazine has made every attempt to ensure material in the Guide is correct, this is not a comprehensive listing and SAY Magazine is not responsible for any errors or omissions.
Table of Contents Arts & Culture
35
Business & Administration
39
Health & Sciences
43
Information Technology
47
Trades
49
Transitional Programs
52
Post-baccalaureate
54
Employment Training
56
Arts & Culture Alberta Concordia University College of Alberta concordia.ab.ca/student-services/indigenous-student-services Danielle Powder, Manager, Indigenous Knowledge & Research Centre danielle.powder@concordia.ab.ca 780-862-1746 Keyano College keyano.ca/en/student-services/aboriginal-student-centre.aspx Sandra Efu, Director of Student Services email available by request 780-791-4800 MacEwan University macewan.ca/wcm/CampusLife/kihewwaciston/index.htm Krista Hanscomb, Senior Student Advisor hanscombk@macewan.ca 403-320-3202 x 5540 Red Crow Community College redcrowcollege.com Fee Marule-McLean, Executive Assistant and Public Relations feem@mikaisto.com 403-393-7586 Red Deer College rdc.ab.ca/student-services/indigenous-student-services Lloyd Desjarlais, Indigenous Student Services Coordinator Lloyd.Desjarlais@rdc.ab.ca 403-342-3284
Edmonton • Art and Science Certificate Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Gregoire Lake • Art and Design Edmonton • Theatre Production Stand Off, Lethbridge • Arts and Science Diploma Red Deer • Visual Art Diploma
British Columbia Camosun College camosun.ca/learn/areas/indigenous.html Alli Matchett, Community Liaison, Indigenous Advisor matchetta@camosun.ca 250-370-3679 Coast Mountain College coastmountaincollege.ca/indigenous-resources/overview Ali McDougall, Indigenous Relations and Executive Advisor amcdougall@coastmountaincollege.ca 250-635-6511 College of New Caledonia cnc.bc.ca/services/prince-george/aboriginal-resources Patricia Prince, Aboriginal Recruitment Officer arc@cnc.bc.ca 250-562-2131 x 5488
Lansdowne and Interurban, Victoria • Comics and Graphic Novels Certificate Terrace, Prince Rupert, Smithers, Hazelton, Haida Gwaii • First Nations Fine Arts Certificate Prince George, Burns Lake, Fort St. James, Mackenzie, Quesnel, Vanderhoof • Associate of Arts Aboriginal Studies
Douglas College douglascollege.ca/student-services/student-support/indigenous-student- New Westminster, Coquitlam services Dave Seaweed, Indigenous Coordinator seaweedd@douglascollege.ca 604-527-5565 snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓ Langara College langara.ca/student-services/indigenous-services/index.html Shyanne Boudreau, Coordinator Indigenous Student Life indigenous@langara.ca 604-323-5043 Native Education College necvancouver.org/programs Keeleigh Julien, Student Advisor kjulien@necvancouver.org 604-873-3772 x 318
• Musicianship, Basic 100 West 49th Ave., Vancouver, BC • Aboriginal Studies Program Vancouver • Indigenous Land Stewardship • Northwest Coast Jewellery Arts CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 35
Northern Lights College nlc.bc.ca/aboriginal Richard Resener, Coordinator of Aboriginal Relations and Services rresener@nlc.bc.ca 250-774-2741 x 4602 Selkirk College selkirk.ca/indigenous Leah Lychowyd, Indigenous Services Counsellor online form to email 250-365-7292 x 21206 University of the Fraser Valley ufv.ca/isc Chantel Watt, Indigenous Student Transition and Engagement Coordinator Chantel.Watt@ufv.ca 604-795-2835 Ext 2245 Vancouver Community College vcc.ca/services/services-for-students/indigenous-services Toni Gladstone, Senior Indigenous Engagement Advisor tgladston@vcc.ca 604-871-7000 x 5048 Vancouver Island Universitiy aboriginal.viu.ca Jennifer Christoffersen, Coordinator/Educational Advisor sas@viu.ca, 888-920-2221 x 6510
Tumbler Ridge, Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, Fort Nelson, Fort St. John • General Arts and Science Certificate Castlegar, Nelson (3 locations), Trail, Grand Forks • Creative Writing Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission and Hope • Aboriginal Culture and Language Support Diploma • Associate of Arts Degree • Halq’eméylem Language Proficiency Certificate Broadway St. Vancouver, Downtown Vancouver and Annacis Island • Dance Nanaimo • Arts One-First Nations
Manitoba Assiniboine Community College assiniboine.net/student-life/Indigenous-supports/indigenous-affairs Cecil Roulette, Indigenous Student Success Advisor roulettc@assiniboine.net 204-725-8700 x 7181 Red River College rrc.ca/indigenous Monica Morin, Indigenous Liaison Advisor momorin@rrc.ca 204-631-3361 University College of the North ucn.ca Melissa Constant, Recruitment Officer mconstant@ucn.ca 204-627-8553
Brandon, Dauphin, Manitoba and Winnipeg • Digital Art and Design Notre Dame Campus, Exchange District Campus, Interlake and Peguis-Fisher River, Portage La Prairie • Indigenous Language: Ojibwe and Cree The Pas, Thompson • Aboriginal and Northern Counselling Skills
New Brunswick St. Thomas University stu.ca/Indigenous Trenton Augustine, Indigenous Student Services Coordinator trentona@stu.ca 506-452-9669
Fredericton • St. Mary’s First Nation Maliseet Language Program
Newfoundland & Labrador College of the North Atlantic cna.nl.ca/aboriginal-resource-centre Lesley Tucker, Guidance Counsellor lesley.tucker@cna.nl.ca 709-896-6306 36 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Happy Valley (Goose Bay), Baie Verte, Bay St. George, Bonavista, Burin Bay, Carbonear, Clarenville, Gander, Grand Falls (Windsor), Labrador City, Placentia, Port Aux Basques, St. John's, Seal Cove, St. Anthony • Baking and Pastry Arts
Nunavut Nunavut Arctic College arcticcollege.ca Recruitment Team NAC.Recruitment@arcticcollege.ca 867-983-4111
Rankin Inlet, Cambridge Bay, Iqaluit, Clyde River • Interpreter Translation (Inuktitut) • Inuit Studies
Ontario Algonquin College algonquincollege.com/studentsupportservices/indigenous-students Gregory Phillips, Indigenous Pathfinder phillig@algonquincollege.com 613-727-4723 x 6081 Centennial College centennialcollege.ca/indigenous-education Seán Kinsella, Director, the Eighth Fire skinsella@centennialcollege.ca 416-289-5000, x 2370 Conestoga College conestogac.on.ca/aboriginal-services Roxane Shawana, Recruitment Officer rshawana@conestogac.on.ca 519-748-5220, x 2457 Confederation College confederationcollege.ca/negahneewin-services/supports-and-services Kristin Fisher, Indigenous Student Navigator and Cultural Lead kristin.fisher@confederationcollege.ca 807-473-3867 George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology georgebrown.ca/current-students/services/indigenous-education-services Jolene May, Indigenous Student Support jmay2@georgebrown.ca 416-415-5000 x 3969 Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology georgiancollege.ca/indigenous-initiatives Ashley Lacoucier, Community Liaison Officer Ashley.Lacourciere@GeorgianCollege.ca 705-728-1968, x 1317 Humber College humber.ca/indigenous Lorralene Whiteye, Indigenous Outreach Coordinator Lorralene.Whiteye@humber.ca 416-577-7100 Loyalist College loyalistcollege.com/indigenous-services Tania Ardley, Indigenous Student Success Mentor tardley@loyalistcollege.com 613-969-1913, x 2250 Negahneewin College confederationcollege.ca/negahneewin-student-services Alicia Brink, Indigenous Student Navigator and Special Needs Lead abrink@confederationcollege.ca 807-475-6602 Niagara College Canada niagaracollege.ca/indigenouseducation Ashley Buck, Indigenous Student Success Leader abuck@niagaracollege.ca 905-641-2252 x 4214 OCAD University ocadu.ca/services/indigenous-students Melissa General, Manager - Indigenous Student Centre mgeneral@ocadu.ca 416-977-6000 x 2261
Ottawa, Pembroke, Smith Falls • Interior Decorating Toronto • 3D Animation Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Ingersoll, Kitchener, Stratford and Waterloo • Broadcast Radio Dryden, Greenstone (Longlac), Kenora, Marathon, Fort Frances, Red Lake, Sioux Loukout, Wawa • Onajigawin Indigenous Services • Aboriginal Canadian Relations Toronto • Art and Design Foundation Barrie, Midland, Orillia, Owen Sound • Anishnaabemowin and Program Development Toronto, Orangeville • Advertising Bancroft • Journalism Thunder Bay, Dryden, Fort Frances, Greenstone, Kenora, Marathon, Sioux Lookout, Red Lake and Wawa • Onajigawin Indigenous Services • Indigenous Governance and Public Administration Niagara-on-the-Lake, Welland, Six Nations (Brantford) • Acting for Film and Television Toronto • Graphic Design and Visual Communication Skills • Digital Media Skills CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 37
Queen's University queensu.ca/fourdirections Kandice Baptiste, Director, Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre 4direct@queensu.ca 613-533-6970 Ryerson University ryerson.ca/aboriginal Sloan (Joanne) Miller, Aboriginal Academic Support Advisor joanne.miller@ryerson.ca 416-979-5000 x 2609 Saint Paul University ustpaul.ca Gabrielle Lefebvre, Liaison Officer recrutement-recruitment@ustpaul.ca 613-236-1393 x 2259 Seneca College (First Peoples) senecacollege.ca/student-services-and-support/first-peoples.html Karen White, Indigenous Counsellor karen.white@senecacollege.ca 647-265-3837 ext. 22776 Seven Generations Education Institute 7generations.org Connie Foster, Registrar connief@7generations.org 807-274-2796 x 1211 University of Ottawa uottawa.ca/indigenous/about-us Darren Sutherland, Indigenous Community Engagement Officer dsutherl@uOttawa.ca 613-562-5800 x 4529 University of Windsor uwindsor.ca/aboriginal-education-centre Kat Pasquach, Aboriginal Outreach Coordinator katpasq@uwindsor.ca 519-253-3000 ext. 3481 York University aboriginal.info.yorku.ca Randy Pitawanakwat, Coordinator, Indigenous Student Services rpitawan@yorku.ca
Kingston • Academic Writing • Media Studies Toronto • Indigenous Knowledges and Experiences • Digital Art Production Ottawa • Social Marketing and Communication Markham, Peterborough, King City, Toronto, North York • Fashion Studies Fort Francis, Kenora, Sioux Lookout • Game Art Ottawa • Creative Writing Windsor • North American Studies Toronto • Anti-Racist Research and Practice • Indigenous Studies
Quebec Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue uqat.ca/etudes/etudes-autochtones uqat.ca/en/indigenous-programs Suzie Ratté, Indigenous Liaison Officer suzie.ratte@uqat.ca 819-874-8728 (6510)
Abitibi-Témiscamingue • Certificate in Indigenous StudiesCertificat • Certificate in Indigenous Governance • Certificate in Childhood-Family Intervention in Indigenous Contexts
Saskatchewan University of Saskatchewan admissions.usask.ca/indigenous-students.php Graeme Joseph, Team Leader of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Success graeme.joseph@usask.ca 306-966-7287
Saskatoon • Study of Indigenous Storytelling • Wîcêhtowin Theatre program
Yukon Yukon University yukonu.ca/about-us/indigenous-yukonu yukonu.ca/programs/community-education Orlanna Aubichon, First Nations Student Navigator firstnationsnavigator@yukonu.ca 867-668-8893 38 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Whitehorse as well as 13 communities across the Yukon • Northern First Nations Studies
Business & Administration Alberta Bow Valley College bowvalleycollege.ca/student-resources/student-life/iniikokaan-centre April Bellegarde, Indigenous Student Recruitment Specialist recruiting@bowvalleycollege.ca 403-410-1402 Concordia University College of Alberta concordia.ab.ca/student-services/indigenous-student-services Danielle Powder, Manager, Indigenous Knowledge & Research Centre danielle.powder@concordia.ab.ca 780-862-1746 Lakeland College lakelandcollege.ca Katie Ryan, Manager, Marketing & Communications katie.ryan@lakelandcollege.ca 780.581.4049 Medicine Hat College mhc.ab.ca/services/indigenoussupport David Restoule, Indigenous Student Specialist drestoule@mhc.ab.ca 403-504-3503 NorQuest College norquest.ca/resources-services/student-services/indigenous-studentservices.aspx Robyn Fabiola, Team Lead robyn.fabiosa@norquest.ca 780-644-6772 Red Crow Community College redcrowcollege.com Fee Marule-McLean, Executive Assistant and Public Relations feem@mikaisto.com 403-393-7586 Red Deer College rdc.ab.ca/student-services/indigenous-student-services Lloyd Desjarlais, Indigenous Student Services Coordinator Lloyd.Desjarlais@rdc.ab.ca 403.342.3284 Yellowhead Tribal College ytced.ca Crystal Wood, Associate Registrar & External Liaison admissions@ytced.ca 780-484-0303
Treaty 7 Territory (southern Alberta) including Calgary, Airdrie, Banff, Cochrane, High River, Okotoks, Strathmore • Education Assistant Certificate Edmonton • Community Service Certificate Vermilion, Alta. and Lloydminster, Alta./Sask. • Business and Energy Medicine Hat, Brooks • Criminal Justice Edmonton, Wetaskiwin • Administrative Professional Stand Off, Lethbridge • Indigenous Bachelor of Social Work Red Deer • Justice Studies Diploma • Business and Administration Diploma Edmonton • Indigenous Social Work Diploma
British Columbia College of New Caledonia cnc.bc.ca/services/prince-george/aboriginal-resources Patricia Prince, Aboriginal Recruitment Officer arc@cnc.bc.ca 250-562-2131 x 5488 College of the Rockies cotr.bc.ca/future-students/domestic/indigenous-students Taryn Kuhne, Indigenous Student Navigator tkuhne@cotr.bc.ca 250-489-2751 x 3261 Douglas College douglascollege.ca/student-services/student-support/ indigenous-student-services Dave Seaweed, Indigenous Coordinator seaweedd@douglascollege.ca 604-527-5565
Prince George, Burns Lake, Fort St. James, Mackenzie, Quesnel, Vanderhoof • Bookkeeping Certificate Cranbrook, Creston, Fernie, Golden, Invermere, and Kimberley • Adventure Tourism Business Operations Diploma • Cannabis Retail Specialist New Westminster, Coquitlam • Criminal Justice Studies • Marketing CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 39
Northern Lights College nlc.bc.ca/aboriginal Richard Resener, Coordinator of Aboriginal Relations and Services rresener@nlc.bc.ca 250-774-2741 x 4602 North Island College nic.bc.ca/indigenous-education Sarah Lawrence, Indigenous Advisor sarah.lawrence@nic.bc.ca 250-334-5029 University of the Fraser Valley ufv.ca/isc Chantel Watt, Indigenous Student Transition and Engagement Coordinator Chantel.Watt@ufv.ca 604-795-2835 Ext 2245
Tumbler Ridge, Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, Fort Nelson, Fort St. John • Criminology Certificate Campbell River, Comox Valley, Port Alberni, Port Hardy, Ucluelet • Criminology Diploma • Early Childhood Care and Education-Infants and Toddlers Diploma Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission and Hope • Social Services Diploma
University of North British Columbia unbc.ca/aboriginal-resource-dati/first-nations-centre
Prince George, Fort St. John, Terrace, Quesnel
Bev Best, Manager, Aboriginal Student Engagement bev.best@unbc.ca 250-960-5517
• Indigenous Tourism Exchange Program
Vancouver Community College vcc.ca/services/services-for-students/indigenous-services Toni Gladstone, Senior Indigenous Engagement Advisor tgladston@vcc.ca 604-871-7000 x 5048 Vancouver Island University aboriginal.viu.ca Jennifer Christoffersen, Coordinator/Educational Advisor sas@viu.ca 888-920-2221 x 6510
Broadway St. Vancouver, Downtown Vancouver and Annacis Island • Medical Transcriptionist Nanaimo • Child and Youth Care First Nations Diploma
Manitoba Red River College rrc.ca/indigenous Monica Morin, Indigenous Liaison Advisor momorin@rrc.ca 204-631-3361 Yellowquill University College yellowquill.org Bobbi Pompana, Director ycdirector@yellowquill.org 204-953-2800
Notre Dame Campus, Exchange District Campus, Interlake and Peguis-Fisher River, Portage La Prairie • Social Innovation and Community Development
Winnipeg and community based programs • First Nation Bachelor of Teaching Degree • First Nation Child and Family Service Worker Diploma • Aboriginal Financial Manager Diploma
Northwest Territories Aurora College auroracollege.nt.ca Laura Aubrey, Coordinator Student Services Center laubrey2@auroracollege.nt.ca 867-872-7583
Inuvik, Fort Smith, Yellowknife
• Early Learning and Child Care Diploma
Nunavut Nunavut Arctic College arcticcollege.ca Recruitment Team NAC.Recruitment@arcticcollege.ca 867-983-4111 40 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Rankin Inlet, Cambridge Bay, Iqaluit, Clyde River
• Social Service Worker
Ontario Cambrian College cambriancollege.ca/indigenous-students/wabnode-centre-foraboriginal-services Kelly Senecal, Indigenous Cultural Coordinator kelly.senecal@cambriancollege.ca 705-566-8101 x 7418 Centennial College centennialcollege.ca/indigenous-education Seán Kinsella, Director, the Eighth Fire skinsella@centennialcollege.ca 416-289-5000, x 2370 Conestoga College conestogac.on.ca/aboriginal-services Roxane Shawana, Recruitment Officer rshawana@conestogac.on.ca 519-748-5220, x 2457 Confederation College confederationcollege.ca/negahneewin-services/supports-and-services Kristin Fisher, Indigenous Student Navigator and Cultural Lead kristin.fisher@confederationcollege.ca 807-473-3867 Durham College durhamcollege.ca/info-for/indigenous-students Julie Pigeon, Indigenous Student Success Coordinator julie.pigeon@durhamcollege.ca 905-721-2000 x 2529 First Nations Technical Institute fnti.net/programs Erica Maracle, Marketing and Recruitment Coordinator erikam@fnti.net 613-396-2122 x 182 Fleming College flemingcollege.ca/student-experience/indigenous-student-services Ashley Safar, Indigenous Student Services Manager ashley.safar@flemingcollege.ca 1-866-353-6464 x 1263 George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology georgebrown.ca/current-students/services/indigenous-education-services Jolene May, Indigenous Student Support jmay2@georgebrown.ca 416-415-5000 x 3969 Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology georgiancollege.ca/indigenous-initiatives Ashley Lacoucier, Community Liaison Officer Ashley.Lacourciere@GeorgianCollege.ca 705-728-1968, x 1317 Mohawk College mohawkcollege.ca/indigenous-students Kayla Jenkins, Indigenous Outreach & Education Advisor kayla.jenkins@mohawkcollege.ca 905-517-0261 Northern College northernc.on.ca/indigenous-services Joseph Nakogee, Indigenous Student Advisor nakogeej@northern.on.ca 705-235-3211 x 2233
Sudbury • Social Service Worker: Indigenous Specialization (SSIS) • Project Management Toronto • Paralegal Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Ingersoll, Kitchener, Stratford and Waterloo • Community and Social Service Management Dryden, Greenstone (Longlac), Kenora, Marathon, Fort Frances, Red Lake, Sioux Loukout, Wawa • Aboriginal Financial and Economic Planning • Aboriginal Canadian Relations Oshawa • Business Fundamentals Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory • Social Service Worker
Peterborough in Cobourg, Haliburton, Lindsay • Law Clerk
Toronto • Business: Accounting • Fashion Business Industry Barrie, Midland, Orillia, Owen Sound • Bookkeeping
Hamilton, Brantford, Ohsweken • Social Service Worker
Kirkland Lake, Timmins, Moosonee, Haileybury • Business Fundamentals CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 41
OCAD University ocadu.ca/services/indigenous-students Melissa General, Manager - Indigenous Student Centre mgeneral@ocadu.ca 416-977-6000 x 2261 Ontario Tech University studentlife.ontariotechu.ca/services/community/indigenous/index.php Carol Ducharme, Indigenous Programming Specialist carol.ducharme@ontariotechu.ca 905-721-8668 x 6795 Queen's University queensu.ca/fourdirections Kandice Baptiste, Director, Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre 4direct@queensu.ca 613-533-6970 Royal Military College rmc-cmr.ca/en/indigenous-knowledge-and-learning/working-group Dr. Paul Chaput Paul.Chaput@rmc-cmr.ca Saint Paul University ustpaul.ca Gabrielle Lefebvre, Liaison Officer recrutement-recruitment@ustpaul.ca 613-236-1393 x 2259 Six Nations Polytechnic snpolytechnic.com/indigenous-knowledge-centre Carly Jamieson, Student Success Officer Carly.Jamieson@SNPolytechnic.com 226-493-1245 x 7254 St. Clair College stclaircollege.ca/student-services/indigenous Kayla Murphy, Indigenous Learner Advisor kmurphy@stclaircollege.ca 519-972-2727 x 4734 St. Lawrence College stlawrencecollege.ca/campuses-and-services/services-and-facilities/ indigenous-support Holly Brant, Indigenous Counsellor hbrant@sl.on.ca 613-544-5400 x 1095 University of Guelph uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/indigenous Natasha Young, Indigenous Student Advisor natasha.young@uoguelph.ca 519-824-4120 x 52189 University of Waterloo uwaterloo.ca/stpauls/waterloo-indigenous-student-centre Cheryl Maksymyk, Indigenous Student Centre Manager cmaksymyk@uwaterloo.ca 519-885-1460 x25209 University of Windsor uwindsor.ca/aboriginal-education-centre Kat Pasquach, Aboriginal Outreach Coordinator katpasq@uwindsor.ca 519-253-3000 ext. 3481 42 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Toronto • Business Skills for Creative Professionals
Oshawa • Digital Marketing and Social Media Management • Professional Management Kingston • Employment Relations Kingston • Certificate in Military Leadership and Management • Certificate in Management with Applications to Defence Ottawa • Skills Development in Conflict Resolution • Leadership • Social Marketing and Communication Brantford • Social Service Worker Windsor, Chatham • Business • Public Relations Kingston, Brockville, Cornwall
• Bookkeeping Guelph • Veterinary Office Administration Waterloo • Business Essentials • Introduction to Databases Windsor • Work and Employment Issues
Quebec Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue uqat.ca/etudes/etudes-autochtones uqat.ca/en/indigenous-programs Suzie Ratté, Indigenous Liaison Officer suzie.ratte@uqat.ca 819-874-8728 (6510)
Abitibi-Témiscamingue
• Certificate in Childhood-Family Intervention in Indigenous Contexts
Saskatchewan Gabriel Dumont Institute gdins.org/metis-culture
Prince Albert, Regina, Saskatoon
Registrar registration@dti.gdins.org 877-488-6888
• Essential Skills and Early Childhood Education Level 1
North West College northwestcollege.ca
North Battleford and area. Meadow Lake and area
Miles Nachbaur, Student Services Manager miles.nachbaur@northwestcollege.ca 306-234-5100 University of Saskatchewan admissions.usask.ca/indigenous-students.php Graeme Joseph, Team Leader of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Success graeme.joseph@usask.ca 306-966-7287 Edwards School of Business (U of Sask) edwards.usask.ca/centres/rawlinson Carson Magnuson, Indigenous Achievement Advisor magnuson@edwards.usask.ca 306-966-7967 University of Saskatoon students.usask.ca/aboriginal
• Business
Saskatoon
• Aboriginal Business Administration
Saskatoon • Aboriginal Business Administration Certificate • Certificate in Business • Certificate in Entrepreneurship Saskatoon
Lori Delorme, Student Services Coordinator lori.delorme@usask.ca 306-966-1604
• Aboriginal Business Administration • Aboriginal Teacher Associate Certificate
Health & Sciences Alberta Bay River College bayrivercollege.ca Saizan Shaheen, Business Development Director admissions@bayrivercollege.ca 403-457-6400 Bow Valley College bowvalleycollege.ca/student-resources/student-life/iniikokaan-centre April Bellegarde, Indigenous Student Recruitment Specialist recruiting@bowvalleycollege.ca 403-410-1402
Calgary and online • Infection Prevention and Control endorsed by IPAC Canada Treaty 7 Territory (southern Alberta) including Calgary, Airdrie, Banff, Cochrane, High River, Okotoks, Strathmore • Health and Human Services Management Post • Diploma Certificate • Disability Studies Certificate CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 43
Keyano College keyano.ca/en/student-services/aboriginal-student-centre.aspx Sandra Efu, Director of Student Services email available by request 780-791-4800 Lakeland College lakelandcollege.ca Katie Ryan, Manager, Marketing & Communications katie.ryan@lakelandcollege.ca 780-581-4049 Lethbridge College lethbridgecollege.ca/departments/indigenous-services Lowell Yellowhorn, Indigenous Cultural and Curriculum Advisor lowell.yellowhorn@lethbridgecollege.ca 800-572-0103 x 5540 NorQuest College norquest.ca/resources-services/student-services/indigenous-studentservices.aspx Robyn Fabiola, Team Lead robyn.fabiosa@norquest.ca 780-644-6772 Olds College oldscollege.ca/student-life/student-health-wellness/indigenous-oldscollege/index.html B. Collins, Indigenous Services Coordinator bcollins@oldscollege.ca 403-507-7944 Yellowhead Tribal College ytced.ca Crystal Wood, Associate Registrar & External Liaison admissions@ytced.ca 780-484-0303
Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Gregoire Lake • Advanced Care Paramedic • Environmental Technology Diploma Vermilion, Alta. and Lloydminster, Alta./Sask. • Environmental Sciences Lethbridge • Natural Resource Compliance Diploma
Edmonton, Wetaskiwin • Addictions Recovery Practitioner
Olds • Veterinary Technical Assistant Certificate • Land and Water Resources Edmonton • Indigenous Environmental Stewardship and Reclamation Diploma
British Columbia Camosun College camosun.ca/learn/areas/indigenous.html Alli Matchett, Community Liaison, Indigenous Advisor matchetta@camosun.ca 250-370-3679 College of New Caledonia cnc.bc.ca/services/prince-george/aboriginal-resources Patricia Prince, Aboriginal Recruitment Officer arc@cnc.bc.ca 250-562-2131 x 5488 Native Education College necvancouver.org/programs Keeleigh Julien, Student Advisor kjulien@necvancouver.org 604-873-3772 x 318
Lansdowne and Interurban, Victoria • Archaeological Field Assistant • Mental Health and Addictions Certificate Prince George, Burns Lake, Fort St. James, Mackenzie, Quesnel, Vanderhoof • Associate of Arts Psychology Vancouver • Healthcare Assistant
Manitoba Assiniboine Community College assiniboine.net/student-life/Indigenous-supports/indigenous-affairs Cecil Roulette, Indigenous Student Success Advisor roulettc@assiniboine.net 204-725-8700 x 7181 Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) mitt.ca/student-services/student-advisors-counselling-learning-support Ryan Bruyere, Indigenous Student Advisor ryan.bruyere@mitt.ca 204-989-7184 44 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Brandon, Dauphin, Manitoba and Winnipeg • Land and Water Management 130 Henlow Bay; 1551 Pembina Highway; 7 Fultz Boulevard; 765 Main Street • Healthcare
University of Manitoba umanitoba.ca/student/indigenous Desiree Morrisseau-Keesick, Lead Indigenous Student Recruitment Officer desiree.morrisseau@umanitoba.ca 204-474-6398 Yellowquill University College yellowquill.org Bobbi Pompana, Director ycdirector@yellowquill.org 204-953-2800
Winnipeg • Diploma in Agriculture Winnipeg and community based programs • First Nation Bachelor of Teaching Degree • First Nations Addictions and Mental Health Diploma
Northwest Territories Aurora College auroracollege.nt.ca Laura Aubrey, Coordinator Student Services Center laubrey2@auroracollege.nt.ca 867-872-7583
Inuvik, Fort Smith, Yellowknife • Environment and Natural Resource Technology
Ontario Cambrian College cambriancollege.ca/indigenous-students/wabnode-centre-for-aboriginal-services Kelly Senecal, Indigenous Cultural Coordinator kelly.senecal@cambriancollege.ca 705-566-8101 x 7418 Canadore College canadorecollege.ca/experience/indigenous-student-experience Gerard Peltier, Recruitment and Retention Officer Gerard.Peltier@canadorecollege.ca 705-474-7600 x 5963 Centennial College centennialcollege.ca/indigenous-education Seán Kinsella, Director, the Eighth Fire skinsella@centennialcollege.ca 416-289-5000, x 2370 Durham College durhamcollege.ca/info-for/indigenous-students Julie Pigeon, Indigenous Student Success Coordinator julie.pigeon@durhamcollege.ca 905-721-2000 x 2529 Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology fanshawec.ca/student-life/campus-services/first-peoples-fanshawe/ indigenous Daniel Kennedy, Aboriginal Community Outreach and Transitions Advisor d_kennedy2@fanshawec.ca 519-808-6041 First Nations Technical Institute fnti.net/programs Erica Maracle, Marketing and Recruitment Coordinator erikam@fnti.net 613-396-2122 x 182 Fleming College flemingcollege.ca/student-experience/indigenous-student-services Ashley Safar, Indigenous Student Services Manager ashley.safar@flemingcollege.ca 1-866-353-6464 x 1263 Humber College humber.ca/indigenous Lorralene Whiteye, Indigenous Outreach Coordinator Lorralene.Whiteye@humber.ca 416-577-7100 Lambton College of Applied Arts and Technology lambtoncollege.ca/isc Sean Hoogterp, Indigenous Student Success Coordinator sean.hoogterp@lambtoncollege.ca 519-542-7751 x 3362
Sudbury • Advanced Care Paramedic North Bay, Parry Sound, Scarborough, Mississauga, Brampton • Indigenous Pre • Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas • Indigenous Wellness and Addictions Prevention Toronto • Addiction and Mental Health Worker Oshawa • Animal Care • Environmental Technology London, St. Thomas, Woodstock, Simcoe and Huron • Doula Studies Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory • Personal Support Worker Peterborough in Cobourg, Haliburton, Lindsay • Health Information Management • Fitness and Health Promotion Toronto, Orangeville • Forensic Identification Sarnia • General Arts and Science College Exploration CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 45
Mohawk College mohawkcollege.ca/indigenous-students Kayla Jenkins, Indigenous Outreach & Education Advisor kayla.jenkins@mohawkcollege.ca 905-517-0261 Negahneewin College confederationcollege.ca/negahneewin-student-services Alicia Brink, Indigenous Student Navigator and Special Needs Lead abrink@confederationcollege.ca 807-475-6602 Niagara College Canada niagaracollege.ca/indigenouseducation Ashley Buck, Indigenous Student Success Leader abuck@niagaracollege.ca 905-641-2252 x 4214 Northern College northernc.on.ca/indigenous-services Joseph Nakogee, Indigenous Student Advisor nakogeej@northern.on.ca 705-235-3211 x 2233 Ontario Tech University studentlife.ontariotechu.ca/services/community/indigenous/index.php Carol Ducharme, Indigenous Programming Specialist carol.ducharme@ontariotechu.ca 905-721-8668 x 6795 Ryerson University ryerson.ca/aboriginal Sloan (Joanne) Miller, Aboriginal Academic Support Advisor joanne.miller@ryerson.ca 416-979-5000 x 2609 Sault College saultcollege.ca/indigenous-students Melvin Peltier, Indigenous Student Recruitment Officer 705-759-2554 ext. 2762 Seneca College (First Peoples) senecacollege.ca/student-services-and-support/first-peoples.html Karen White, Indigenous Counsellor karen.white@senecacollege.ca 647-265-3837 ext. 22776 Seven Generations Education Institute 7generations.org Connie Foster, Registrar connief@7generations.org 807-274-2796 x 1211
Hamilton, Brantford, Ohsweken • Mental Health and Disability Management • Personal Support Worker Thunder Bay, Dryden, Fort Frances, Greenstone, Kenora, Marathon, Sioux Lookout, Red Lake and Wawa • Developmental Services Worker Niagara-on-the-Lake, Welland, Six Nations (Brantford) • Ecosystem Restoration Kirkland Lake, Timmins, Moosonee, Haileybury • Veterinary Technician • Health Care Management Oshawa • Agricultural Leadership Toronto • Indigenous Child and Youth Engagement Sault Ste. Marie • Occupational Health and Safety • Wastewater Collection and Treatment System Operations Markham, Peterborough, King City, Toronto, North York • Environmental Technician • Underwater Skills Fort Francis, Kenora, Sioux Lookout • Personal Support Worker
Sheridan College sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/indigenous-learning- Oakville and-support Jodie Kerr-Alich, Indigenous Initiatives Coordinator (Trafalgar) jodie.kerralich@sheridancollege.ca 905-845-9430 x 5554 St. Lawrence College stlawrencecollege.ca/campuses-and-services/services-and-facilities/ indigenous-support Holly Brant, Indigenous Counsellor hbrant@sl.on.ca 613-544-5400 x 1095 Trent University trentu.ca/fphl Ryan Gray-Brady, Indigenous Enrolment Advisor rgraybrady@trentu.ca 705-748-1011 x 6228 University of Windsor uwindsor.ca/aboriginal-education-centre Kat Pasquach, Aboriginal Outreach Coordinator katpasq@uwindsor.ca 519-253-3000 ext. 3481 46 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
• Chemical Laboratory Technician Kingston, Brockville, Cornwall • Veternary Assistant Peterborough, Durham • Indigenous Environmental Studies Windsor • Anthrozoology
Saskatchewan Cumberland College cumberlandcollege.sk.ca/index.php?id=272 Kim Cross, IATEC Coordinator kcross@cumberlandcollege.sk.ca 306-752-8109 North West College northwestcollege.ca
Nipawin, Tisdale, Melfort • Practical Nursing • Agriculture Sciences Certificate North Battleford and area. Meadow Lake and area.
Miles Nachbaur, Student Services Manager miles.nachbaur@northwestcollege.ca 306-234-5100 Northlands College trainnorth.ca/elie-fleury-cultural-centre Registrar applications@northlandscollege.sk.ca 888-311-1185 Parkland College parklandcollege.sk.ca/current/css/overview.html Sophia Thomas, Counsellor and Academic Advisor s.thomas@parklandcollege.sk.ca 306-786-2595
• Registered Psych Nurse -Business • Youth Care Worker La Ronge, Air Ronge, Buffalo Narrows, Creighton • Mental Health and Wellness • Indigenous Practical Nursing • First Nations Childcare Yorkton, SK (2); Melville, SK; Fort Qu'Appelle, SK; Kamsack, SK • Practical Nursing Diploma (2 years)
Yukon Yukon University yukonu.ca/about-us/indigenous-yukonu yukonu.ca/programs/community-education Orlanna Aubichon, First Nations Student Navigator firstnationsnavigator@yukonu.ca 867-668-8893
Whitehorse as well as 13 communities across the Yukon • Renewable Resources Management
Information Technology Alberta Concordia University College of Alberta concordia.ab.ca/student-services/indigenous-student-services Danielle Powder, Manager, Indigenous Knowledge & Research Centre danielle.powder@concordia.ab.ca 780-862-1746 Lethbridge College lethbridgecollege.ca/departments/indigenous-services Lowell Yellowhorn, Indigenous Cultural and Curriculum Advisor lowell.yellowhorn@lethbridgecollege.ca 800-572-0103 x 5540 Southern Alberta Institute of Technology SAIT sait.ca/indigenous-students Allyson Dennehy, Student Advisor chinook.lodge@sait.ca 403-919-2896 Yellowhead Tribal College ytced.ca Crystal Wood, Associate Registrar & External Liaison admissions@ytced.ca 780-484-0303
Edmonton • Geospacial Technologies Certificate Lethbridge • Virtual and Augmented Reality Certificate Calgary • Film and Video Production • Radio, Television and Broadcast News Edmonton • Essential Skills in a Digital World
British Columbia Capilano University capilanou.ca/programs--courses/capu-for-you/indigenous-students Miranda Huron, Director of Indigenous Education and Affairs indigenous@capilanou.ca 604-986-1911 x 3067
North Vancouver, Sechelt • 3D Animation for Film and Games • Indigenous Digital Filmmaking CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 47
Vancouver Community College vcc.ca/services/services-for-students/indigenous-services Toni Gladstone, Senior Indigenous Engagement Advisor tgladston@vcc.ca 604-871-7000 x 5048
Broadway St. Vancouver, Downtown Vancouver and Annacis Island • Electronics Repair Technology
Manitoba Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) mitt.ca/student-services/student-advisors-counselling-learning-support Ryan Bruyere, Indigenous Student Advisor ryan.bruyere@mitt.ca 204-989-7184
130 Henlow Bay; 1551 Pembina Highway; 7 Fultz Boulevard; 765 Main Street • IT/Business
Newfoundland & Labrador College of the North Atlantic cna.nl.ca/aboriginal-resource-centre Lesley Tucker, Guidance Counsellor lesley.tucker@cna.nl.ca 709-896-6306
Happy Valley (Goose Bay), Baie Verte, Bay St. George, Bonavista, Burin Bay, Carbonear, Clarenville, Gander, Grand Falls (Windsor), Labrador City, Placentia, Port Aux Basques, St. John's, Seal Cove, St. Anthony • Computer Systems and Networking
Ontario Centennial College centennialcollege.ca/indigenous-education Seán Kinsella, Director, the Eighth Fire skinsella@centennialcollege.ca 416-289-5000, x 2370 Niagara College Canada niagaracollege.ca/indigenouseducation Ashley Buck, Indigenous Student Success Leader abuck@niagaracollege.ca 905-641-2252 x 4214 OCAD University ocadu.ca/services/indigenous-students Melissa General, Manager - Indigenous Student Centre mgeneral@ocadu.ca 416-977-6000 x 2261 Queen's University queensu.ca/fourdirections Kandice Baptiste, Director, Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre 4direct@queensu.ca 613-533-6970 Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst, Ryerson University cybersecurecatalyst.ca Trish Dyl, Director of Corporate Training and Cyber Range trish.dyl@ryerson.ca or catalyst.corporate@ryerson.ca University of Waterloo uwaterloo.ca/stpauls/waterloo-indigenous-student-centre Cheryl Maksymyk, Indigenous Student Centre Manager cmaksymyk@uwaterloo.ca 519-885-1460 x25209
Toronto • 3D Animation Niagara-on-the-Lake, Welland, Six Nations (Brantford) • Computer Programming Toronto • Digital Media Skills Kingston • Media Studies Brampton • Catalyst Corporate Training and Cyber Range Waterloo • Advanced Web Design and Development (online only) • Introduction to Databases (online only)
Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Polytechnic saskpolytech.ca/about/organization/indigenous-strategy.aspx Indigenous Support Team, askaquestion@saskpolytech.ca 866-467-4278 48 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina, Saskatoon • Media Production Diploma • Cyber Security Post-Graduate Certificate
Trades Alberta Medicine Hat College mhc.ab.ca/services/indigenoussupport David Restoule, Indigenous Student Specialist drestoule@mhc.ab.ca 403-504-3503 NorQuest College norquest.ca/resources-services/student-services/indigenous-studentservices.aspx Robyn Fabiola, Team Lead robyn.fabiosa@norquest.ca 780-644-6772 Olds College oldscollege.ca/student-life/student-health-wellness/indigenous-oldscollege/index.html B. Collins, Indigenous Services Coordinator bcollins@oldscollege.ca 403-507-7944 Red Crow Community College redcrowcollege.com Fee Marule-McLean, Executive Assistant and Public Relations feem@mikaisto.com 403-393-7586
Medicine Hat, Brooks • Aviation Management
Edmonton, Wetaskiwin
• Machine Learning Analyst
Olds
• Horticulture Technologist Stand Off, Lethbridge • Niitsitapi Agriculture Certificate Program
British Columbia British Columbia Institute of Technology bcit.ca/indigenous-services Leah Falstead, Advisor, Indigenous Initiatives IndigenousAdvisor@bcit.ca 604-434-5734 Camosun College camosun.ca/learn/areas/indigenous.html Alli Matchett, Community Liaison, Indigenous Advisor matchetta@camosun.ca 250-370-3679 Coast Mountain College coastmountaincollege.ca/indigenous-resources/overview Ali McDougall, Indigenous Relations and Executive Advisor amcdougall@coastmountaincollege.ca 250-635-6511 College of the Rockies cotr.bc.ca/future-students/domestic/indigenous-students Taryn Kuhne, Indigenous Student Navigator tkuhne@cotr.bc.ca 250-489-2751 x 3261 Northern Lights College nlc.bc.ca/aboriginal Richard Resener, Coordinator of Aboriginal Relations and Services rresener@nlc.bc.ca 250-774-2741 x 4602 North Island College nic.bc.ca/indigenous-education Sarah Lawrence, Indigenous Advisor sarah.lawrence@nic.bc.ca 250-334-5029
Burnaby, Metro Vancouver • Trade Discovery for Women • Trades Discovery General" Lansdowne and Interurban, Victoria • Archaeological Field Assistant Terrace, Prince Rupert, Smithers, Hazelton, Haida Gwaii • Cosmetology Diploma of Trades Cranbrook, Creston, Fernie, Golden, Invermere, and Kimberley • Fire Training Certificate Program Tumbler Ridge, Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, Fort Nelson, Fort St. John • Millwright Foundations Campbell River, Comox Valley, Port Alberni, Port Hardy, Ucluelet • Coastal Forest Worker Certificate CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 49
Thompson Rivers University tru.ca/indigenous.html Lex Edwards, Qelmucw Recruiter-Advisor futureindigenous@tru.ca 250-318-7095 Vancouver Island Universitiy aboriginal.viu.ca Jennifer Christoffersen, Coordinator/Educational Advisor sas@viu.ca 888-920-2221 x 6510
Kamloops • Indigenous Pathways for Health Careers Horticulture • Meatcutter • Water and Wastewater Technology Diploma Nanaimo • Esthetics and Spa Therapy
Manitoba Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) mitt.ca/student-services/student-advisors-counselling-learning-support Ryan Bruyere, Indigenous Student Advisor ryan.bruyere@mitt.ca 204-989-7184
130 Henlow Bay; 1551 Pembina Highway; 7 Fultz Boulevard; 765 Main Street • Skilled Trades
Northwest Territories Aurora College auroracollege.nt.ca Laura Aubrey, Coordinator Student Services Center laubrey2@auroracollege.nt.ca 867-872-7583
Inuvik, Fort Smith, Yellowknife • Learn basic skills in carpentry, plumbing and electrical trades
Ontario Conestoga College conestogac.on.ca/aboriginal-services Roxane Shawana, Recruitment Officer rshawana@conestogac.on.ca 519-748-5220, x 2457 Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology fanshawec.ca/student-life/campus-services/first-peoples-fanshawe/ indigenous Daniel Kennedy, Aboriginal Community Outreach and Transitions Advisor d_kennedy2@fanshawec.ca 519-808-6041 Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology georgiancollege.ca/indigenous-initiatives Ashley Lacoucier, Community Liaison Officer Ashley.Lacourciere@GeorgianCollege.ca 705-728-1968, x 1317 Lambton College of Applied Arts and Technology lambtoncollege.ca/isc Sean Hoogterp, Indigenous Student Success Coordinator sean.hoogterp@lambtoncollege.ca 519-542-7751 x 3362 Loyalist College loyalistcollege.com/indigenous-services Tania Ardley, Indigenous Student Success Mentor tardley@loyalistcollege.com 613-969-1913, x 2250 NPAAMB Indigenous Youth Employment and Training npaamb.com/programs-directory bsandy@npaamb.com 519-751-8333 50 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Ingersoll, Kitchener, Stratford and Waterloo • Advanced Police Studies
London, St. Thomas, Woodstock, Simcoe and Huron
• Carpentry and Renovation Techniques • Welding Techniques Barrie, Midland, Orillia, Owen Sound • Esthetician Sarnia • Construction Carpentry Techniques Bancroft • Electrical Techniques Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, Brantford, Kitchener Waterloo, Hamilton, Niagara Falls St. Catherines, Fort Erie • Building Futures for Indigenous Youth • GardaWorld Protective Services Training Program
Sault College saultcollege.ca/indigenous-students Melvin Peltier, Indigenous Student Recruitment Officer 705-759-2554 ext. 2762 Seneca College (First Peoples) senecacollege.ca/student-services-and-support/first-peoples.html Karen White, Indigenous Counsellor karen.white@senecacollege.ca 647-265-3837 ext. 22776 Seven Generations Education Institute 7generations.org Connie Foster, Registrar connief@7generations.org 807-274-2796 x 1211 Sheridan College sheridancollege.ca/life-at-sheridan/student-services/indigenouslearning-and-support Jodie Kerr-Alich, Indigenous Initiatives Coordinator (Trafalgar) jodie.kerralich@sheridancollege.ca 905-845-9430 x 5554 Six Nations Polytechnic snpolytechnic.com/indigenous-knowledge-centre Carly Jamieson, Student Success Officer Carly.Jamieson@SNPolytechnic.com 226-493-1245 x 7254 St. Clair College stclaircollege.ca/student-services/indigenous Kayla Murphy, Indigenous Learner Advisor kmurphy@stclaircollege.ca 519-972-2727 x 4734 St. Lawrence College stlawrencecollege.ca/campuses-and-services/services-and-facilities/ indigenous-support Holly Brant, Indigenous Counsellor hbrant@sl.on.ca 613-544-5400 x 1095 University of Guelph uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/indigenous Natasha Young, Indigenous Student Advisor natasha.young@uoguelph.ca 519-824-4120 x 52189 York University aboriginal.info.yorku.ca Randy Pitawanakwat, Coordinator, Indigenous Student Services rpitawan@yorku.ca
Sault Ste. Marie • Wastewater Collection and Treatment System Operations Markham, Peterborough, King City, Toronto, North York • Environmental Technician • Underwater Skills Fort Francis, Kenora, Sioux Lookout • Hairstyling Oakville • Architectural Technician Brantford • We Are Welders: Women's Program • Construction Techniques Windsor, Chatham • Woodworking Technician Kingston, Brockville, Cornwall • Culinary Skills: Chef Training Guelph • Performance Horse Handler Certificate Toronto • Real Estate
Saskatchewan Cumberland College cumberlandcollege.sk.ca/index.php?id=272 Kim Cross, IATEC Coordinator kcross@cumberlandcollege.sk.ca 306-752-8109 Parkland College parklandcollege.sk.ca/current/css/overview.html Sophia Thomas, Counsellor and Academic Advisor s.thomas@parklandcollege.sk.ca 306-786-2595 Saskatchewan Polytechnic saskpolytech.ca/about/organization/indigenous-strategy.aspx Indigenous Support Team, askaquestion@saskpolytech.ca 866-467-4278
Nipawin, Tisdale, Melfort • Carpentry Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Kamsack • Professional Firefighting (14 weeks) • Welding Certificate (1 year) Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina, Saskatoon • Aboriginal Policing Preparation CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 51
Yukon Yukon University yukonu.ca/about-us/indigenous-yukonu yukonu.ca/programs/community-education Orlanna Aubichon, First Nations Student Navigator firstnationsnavigator@yukonu.ca 867-668-8893
Whitehorse as well as 13 communities across the Yukon
• Aviation Management
Transitional Programs Alberta Caritas College - Professional Development caritascollege-edu.ca Marion Coomber, Director of Clinical Education tenhappytoes@hotmail.com 403-652-5011 Lakeland College lakelandcollege.ca Katie Ryan, Manager, Marketing & Communications katie.ryan@lakelandcollege.ca 780-581-4049 Lethbridge College lethbridgecollege.ca/departments/indigenous-services Lowell Yellowhorn, Indigenous Cultural and Curriculum Advisor lowell.yellowhorn@lethbridgecollege.ca 800-572-0103 x 5540 Southern Alberta Institute of Technology SAIT sait.ca/indigenous-students Allyson Dennehy, Student Advisor chinook.lodge@sait.ca 403-919-2896
High River Alberta • Critical Thinking for Healthcare Worker (online) • Lower Limb Health Management • Theory (001) and Practicum (002) Vermilion, Alta. and Lloydminster, Alta./Sask. • University Transfer • ATEP program Lethbridge
• Indigenous Career Pathways Certificate Calgary
• Academic Upgrading Indigenous Program
British Columbia Capilano University capilanou.ca/programs--courses/capu-for-you/indigenous-students Miranda Huron, Director of Indigenous Education and Affairs indigenous@capilanou.ca 604-986-1911 x 3067 Coast Mountain College coastmountaincollege.ca/indigenous-resources/overview Ali McDougall, Indigenous Relations and Executive Advisor amcdougall@coastmountaincollege.ca 250-635-6511 snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓ Langara College langara.ca/student-services/indigenous-services/index.html Shyanne Boudreau, Coordinator Indigenous Student Life indigenous@langara.ca 604-323-5043 52 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
North Vancouver, Sechelt
• University One for Aboriginal Learners
Terrace, Prince Rupert, Smithers, Hazelton, Haida Gwaii • People Obtaining Workplace Employment Requirements (POWER) Certificate Program Vancouver • Indigenous Upgrading Program • UBC-Langara Aboriginal Transfer Partnership
Manitoba Legacy Bowes legacybowes.com/our-services/leadership-development/trainingdevelopment Laurie Sinclair, Client Relations Manager laurie@legacybowes.com 204-934-8837 Red River College rrc.ca/indigenous Monica Morin, Indigenous Liaison Advisor momorin@rrc.ca 204-631-3361
Winnipeg
• Results Centred Leadership Notre Dame Campus, Exchange District Campus, Interlake and Peguis-Fisher River, Portage La Prairie • Social Innovation and Community Development
New Brunswick St. Thomas University stu.ca/Indigenous Trenton Augustine, Indigenous Student Services Coordinator trentona@stu.ca 506-452-9669 University of New Brunswick unb.ca/mwc April McAllister, Wicuhkekemit april.belding@unb.ca 506-458-7054
Fredericton
• Aotiitj: St. Thomas-Elsipogtog Partnership Program
Fredericton, St. John
• Bridging Year Program for Indigenous students
Newfoundland & Labrador College of the North Atlantic cna.nl.ca/aboriginal-resource-centre Lesley Tucker, Guidance Counsellor lesley.tucker@cna.nl.ca 709-896-6306
Happy Valley (Goose Bay), Baie Verte, Bay St. George, Bonavista, Burin Bay, Carbonear, Clarenville, Gander, Grand Falls (Windsor), Labrador City, Placentia, Port Aux Basques, St. John's, Seal Cove, St. Anthony • Aboriginal Bridging Program
Ontario Canadore College canadorecollege.ca/experience/indigenous-student-experience Gerard Peltier, Recruitment and Retention Officer Gerard.Peltier@canadorecollege.ca 705-474-7600 x 5963 NPAAMB Indigenous Youth Employment and Training npaamb.com/programs-directory bsandy@npaamb.com 519-751-8333
North Bay, Parry Sound, Scarborough, Mississauga, Brampton • Academic Upgrading (52 weeks) Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, Brantford, Kitchener Waterloo, Hamilton, Niagara Falls St. Catherines, Fort Erie • Skills Developement Training Program
Quebec Université Laval ulaval.ca/futurs-etudiants/candidats-membres-des-premieres-nationset-inuits info@ulaval.ca 877-785-2825
Quebec City • Introduction to Studies in Business Administration • Introduction to Human Physiology • Economics in a North American Context CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 53
Saskatchewan Gabriel Dumont Institute gdins.org/metis-culture
Prince Albert, Regina, Saskatoon • Adult Basic Education • Continuing Care Assistant • Heavy Equipment and Truck and Transport Technician
Registrar registration@dti.gdins.org 877-488-6888
Post-baccalaureate Alberta Athabasca University, Nukskahtowin indigenous.athabascau.ca Ivy Lalonde, Indigenous Student Success Support, Nukskahtowin ivyl@athabascau.ca 800-788-9041 x 5054 Bow Valley College bowvalleycollege.ca/student-resources/student-life/iniikokaan-centre April Bellegarde, Indigenous Student Recruitment Specialist recruiting@bowvalleycollege.ca 403-410-1402 MacEwan University macewan.ca/wcm/CampusLife/kihewwaciston/index.htm Krista Hanscomb, Senior Student Advisor hanscombk@macewan.ca 403-320-3202 x 5540 Maskwacis Cultural College mccedu.ca Becky Cardinal-Rattlesnake, Student Services Support Coordinator bcardinal@mccedu.ca 780-585-3925 Northern Alberta Institute of Technology nait.ca/nait/life-at-nait/clubs-groups-community/nisohkamatotancentre Dawn Lameman, Nîsôhkamâtotân Centre Support dawnl@nait.ca 780-491-3917
Online • Leader Developement Program • Digital Transformation Leadership Certificate Treaty 7 Territory (southern Alberta) including Calgary, Airdrie, Banff, Cochrane, High River, Okotoks, Strathmore • Health and Human Services Management Post-Diploma Certificate Edmonton • Public Relations Maskwacis • Indigenous Bachelor of Social Work
Edmonton
• BBA Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Manitoba Assiniboine Community College assiniboine.net/student-life/Indigenous-supports/indigenous-affairs Cecil Roulette, Indigenous Student Success Advisor roulettc@assiniboine.net 204-725-8700 x 7181
Brandon, Dauphin, Manitoba and Winnipeg • Public Safety Advanced Diploma
New Brunswick University of New Brunswick unb.ca/mwc April McAllister, Wicuhkekemit april.belding@unb.ca 506-458-7054 54 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Fredericton, St. John • Earth Sciences MSc • Sociology MA
Nova Scotia Acadia University acadiau.ca/student-life/indigenous-students.html Zabrina Whitman, Coordinator of indigenous affairs zabrina.whitman@acadiau.ca 902-220-8924 Dalhousie University dal.ca/about-dal/indigenous-connection.html isc@dal.ca 902-494-3077 Nova Scotia College of Art and Design nscad.ca admissions@nscad.ca 888-444-5989 Saint Mary's University smu.ca/indigenous-community/wisqaptmumk-saint-marys.html Raymond Sewell, Indigenous Student Advisor Raymond.Sewell@smu.ca 902-491-6578
Wolfville • Political Science MA Halifax, Bible Hill • Musicology • Architecture MA • Dental hygiene Diploma Halifax • Master of Design • Master of Fine Arts (Full Time) Halifax • Certificate in Co-operative Management (Part-time) • MA in History • Master of Finance
Ontario Algoma University algomau.ca/students/anishinaabe-students Bonnie Gaikezheyongai, Anishinaabe Academic Success Advisor bonnie.gaikezheyongai@algomau.ca Brock University brocku.ca/aboriginal-student-services Sandra Wong, Aboriginal Academic Program Support Coordinator swong2@brocku.ca 905-688-5550 x 5883 Carlton University carleton.ca/indigenous Vanessa Cyr, Indigenous Programs Officer vanessa.cyr@carleton.ca Lakehead University lakeheadu.ca/indigenous/indigenous-services-tb Anna Chief, Indigenous Outreach indigenousoutreach@lakeheadu.ca 807-251-4491 Laurentian University laurentian.ca/indigenous-student-affairs Natalie Lacasse, Indigenous Community Outreach and Liaison nj_lacasse@laurentian.ca 705-929-9160 McMaster University indigservices.mcmaster.ca Shylo Elmayan, Director, Indigenous Student Services elmayans@mcmaster.ca 905-525-9140 x 21833
Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, Timmins • 1 year Graduate Certificate in Information Technology • 2 year Graduate Certificate in Human Resources and Business Management • 1 year Graduate Certificate in Health Science St. Catharines, Ontario • Applied Disability Studies (Graduate Diploma) • Business Administration (Graduate Diploma) • Accountancy (Graduate Diploma) Ottawa • Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Policy and Administration • Graduate Diploma in Architectural Conservation • Master of Design Thunder Bay, Orillia • Graduate Diploma in Accounting • Graduate Diploma in Professional Kinesiology Sudbury • Science Communication (Diploma) • Nurse Practitioner (Diploma) • Psychology (Masters) Hamilton • Graduate Diploma in Gender and Social Justice • Graduate Diploma in Social Work. • Graduate Diploma in Clinical Epidemiology CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 55
University of Toronto studentlife.utoronto.ca/department/first-nations-house Michael White, Director, Indigenous Student Services michaeld.white@utoronto.ca 416-978-0733 Wilfrid Laurier University wlu.ca/future-students/undergraduate/applicants/indigenous-students Jessica Duke, Indigenous Student Recruitment jduke@wlu.ca
Toronto • Master of Accounting and Finance Program Waterloo • Graduate Diploma in GIS and Data Analytics • Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy
Prince Edward Island University of P.E.I upei.ca/mawiomi-centre
Charlottetown
Mawi’omi Indigenous Student Centre mawiomi@upei.ca 902-620-5125
• Masters in Global Affairs
Quebec Université Laval ulaval.ca/futurs-etudiants/candidats-membres-des-premieres-nations-et-inuits info@ulaval.ca 877-785-2825
Quebec City • Masters in Audiology
Saskatchewan University of Regina uregina.ca/student/asc
Regina
Annie Charles, Student Success Facilitator oma.success@uregina.ca 306-337-8545
• Administration (Indigenous Management) Certificate • Certificate in First Nations Language Instruction • Certificate in Indigenous Economic Development
Employment Training The government of Canada offers a comprehensive list of Indigenous service delivery organizations in communities all across the country that offer skills development and job training. With the details on the types of skills training available, here are just a few of those programs from coast-to-coast. Make sure to visit the websites for eligibility criteria. Indigenous Workplace Wellness Circle Aboriginal Futures aboriginalfutures.com/indigenous-workplace-wellness-circle-2
Alberta
Participants gain confidence, learn essential skills, better their communication skills and set career and employment goals. In the program clients will create a personal career plan, as well as learn essential job search skills. Housing Internship for Indigenous Youth (HIIY) CMHC cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/professionals/industry-innovation-and-leadership/ industry-expertise/indigenous-housing
British Columbia
On-the-job training in the housing industry for Indigenous youth.The program provides financial assistance to help businesses and organizations create housing-related internships for Indigenous youth. Education and Training Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development Inc. (CAHRD) cahrd.org/education-training
Manitoba
CAHRD provides a holistic approach to education through individualized support services, including access to employment, academic and personal counselling. Student housing, on-site subsidized daycare, and health and wellness activities are also offered. 56 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021
Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program (ISETP) New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council nbapc.org/programs-and-services
New Brunswick
This program focuses on both clients and employers to ensure clients engage in training programs that will directly lead to employment opportunities. Summer Career Placement NunatuKavut nunatukavut.ca/programs/employment-and-skills-development
Newfoundland and Labrador
This program provides meaningful summer work experiences for students 15-29 years of age. The objective is to link students with work experience related to their field of study or an area in which they have an interest in studying, wherever possible. Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program Dehcho First Nations dehcho.org/education-training/iset-programs
Northwest Territories
The Program is designed to help prepare for, and find, high-demand jobs in Canada. The program provides opportunities to gain the skills required to find employment. Aboriginal Peoples Training and Employment Commission (APTEC) Native Council of Nova Scotia ncns.ca/program-services/aboriginal-peoples-training-employmentcommission-aptec
Nova Scotia
APTEC is the employment and training division of the Native Council of Nova Scotia established to provide human resource development services to the rural, urban, off-reserve Mi’kmaq / Aboriginal Peoples of Nova Scotia. Employment Related Training Program Kakivak Association kakivak.ca/en/training_programs
Nunavut
The goal of the Employment Related Training Program is to assist Inuit individuals or groups in obtaining or improving employment skills. Aboriginal Leadership Opportunities Year (ALOY) RMC forces.ca/en/programs-for-indigenous-peoples/aloy
Ontario
Participants will experience a highly positive and productive academic year of leadership development, Military training and cultural support activities at the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC). Employment Services Mi’kmaq Confederacy of Prince Edward Island mcpei.ca/#programs
Prince Edward Island
The program provides employment-based programs and services to all Indigenous Peoples living on PEI. Emphasis is on providing the support clients need to return to work, and or training. The program is also delivered in both urban and rural locations. RBC Indigenous Internship Program Canadian Museum of History historymuseum.ca/learn/research/rbc-aboriginal-training-program-inmuseum-practices
Quebec
Practical experience for Indigenous Peoples who would like to broaden their knowledge and skills in various aspects of museum work. The Program operates from September to April of each year, with a two week break for the holiday season. Indigenous pre-cadet training at the RCMP Training Academy RCMP rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/indigenous-pre-cadet-training-program
Saskatchewan
Participants will learn: how to work as part of a policing team, an introduction to the Criminal Code and RCMP policy, physical fitness and drills, as well as skills to help prepare you to apply to be a police officer. Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program Kwanlin Dun First Nation kwanlindun.com/education/training-and-courses-foradults/#1585179552254-9c389739-c82d
Yukon
KDFN Provides access to skills training and certifications (such as First Aid, WHMIS, Chainsaw Safety, etc.). Funding for citizens to access work gear needed for employment may also be provided.
To find other skills and work-ready training programs near you, visit: canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/ programs/indigenous-skills-employment-training/service-delivery-organizations.html CAREER DEVELOPMENT l OCT 2021 | 57
Advertiser Index Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) aptn.ca
Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) indigenoustourismontario.ca
22
American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) 25 aises.org
Lakeland College lakelandcollege.ca
15
Brandon University BrandonU.ca/Indigenous Canadian Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) canada.ca/en/security-intelligence-service
Legacy Bowes legacybowes.com
13
Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) MITT.ca
24
Nuclear Waste Management Organization nwmo.ca
26
Canadian Wildlife Federation canadianconservationcorps.ca
17
13 19, 20 29
Columbia College columbia.ab.ca
9
Oshki-Wenjack oshki.ca
32
Emily Carr University aboriginal.ecuad.ca
9
The Frog Radio thefrogradio.com
59
Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) fpac.ca
31
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) findyourtru.ca
Forward Summit Conference forwardsummit.ca
60
Vision Quest Conference vqconference.com
2 33
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