First Nations Resource Magazine by Vantage Publishing Group Corp.

ON THE ICE: ICE

OFIFC:

ALGOMA:

Where Community & Education Converge

Kanawayhitowin Programme

One Person Can Make A Difference

FN FIRST NATIONS RESOURCE MAGAZINE

Theo Fleury PM41927547

TAKING THE HIGH ROAD TO LIFE

6 ON THE ICE Where Community and Education Converge

ON THE COVER

13 The Native Women’s Association Uniting Voices in a Call for Action

Theo Fleury

17 The Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres Kanawayhitowin Programme

Taking the High Road to Life

Cover Photo By: Perry Thompson

33 University of Manitoba Faculty of Nursing 35 Cliffs Natural Resources Mining in the Ring of Fire 39 Hard Creek Nickel The Turnagain Project

21 Algoma University One person can make a difference 29 Tamerlane Ventures The revival of the Pine Point Mine 32 University of Manitoba Faculty of Education

Editor & Publisher Jacques Beauchamp

45 Grant MacEwan University Centre for the Arts and Communications 49 Avalon Rare Metals Inc. Wins Prestigious PDAC Award

former regional police officer jacques@vantagepublishing.ca

Executive Assistant Christine Panasuk christine@vantagepublishing.ca

Assistant EDITOR Joyce Li

53 Queen’s University Engineers for Tomorrow 57 Grant MacEwan University Moving a Life Forward

joyce.li@vantagepublishing.ca

Circulation / Production Joyce Li joyce.li@vantagepublishing.ca

Graphics & Art www.DESIGNit.CA

61 Nova Gold Sometimes you just have to Dig a Little Deeper 69 Goldsource Mines Inc. Discovering Canada’s Coal Resources 75 RBC Royal Bank Education is Key to Future Success

Printed in Ontario, Canada Dollco Printing Senior Web Manager Jonathan Beauchamp Production Co Ordinator Jonathan Beauchamp jon.beauchamp@vantagepublishing.ca

Columnists Joyce Li • Jennie Guay Dene Skylar • Alison Northey Dale Sturges ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Donn Holt Thomas Easton Dan Cole

irst Nations Resource Magazine distributed free, all rights reserved. Contents and photographs may not be reprinted without written permission. The statements, opinions and points of view expressed in articles published in this magazine are those of the authors. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, transparencies or other materials. (613) 724-9957. www.vantagepublishing.ca • info@vantagepublishing.ca

first nations resource magazine

hopeforthefuture.ca

ON THE

ICE:

Where Community and Education Converge By: Jennie Guay

ducation is an essential component of success for both individuals and communities. Valuable lessons are learned within the four walls of schools across Canada, but in Nunavik, Quebec education is being taken beyond the classroom and onto the ice. For the founders and leaders of the Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program (NYHDP), it’s game time. The gloves have come off, the puck has been dropped and as a community, the NYHDP is going to assist Nunavik’s Inuit community to victory. The program was launched in 2006, and is now offered to all 14 communities in Nunavik, from Akulivik to Kuujjuaraapik and Kangiqsualujjuaq. The solid team at NYHDP includes the talents of Claude Vallières - with over 40 years in the Nunavik education system, and Sammy Koneak - with over 20 years in recreation and hockey in Nunavik. They recognized the need for leadership and community and filled it. Team NYHDP is also aware of the hardships and challenges that many Inuit youths face in the home, in the education system and within Canadian society. Together, they sparked the beginning of a movement focused on investing in Nunavik’s youth, ultimately contributing to the development and success of the Inuit community in Quebec for generations to come.

Vision Through a Hockey Lens The NYHDP’s vision is to create a sustainable regional program that will keep Nunavik’s youth off the streets and out of trouble, while providing them with the education and skills sets required to flourish as individuals. The program utilizes hockey as tool to promote education, and as such, the NYHDP partnered with the Kativik School Board and government and has enlisted the promotional support of the Makivik Corporation to ensure that the core objectives of the program are actualized. The NYHDP has bridged the gap between the teachers, principles, community leaders and the students. The program is designed to get everyone involved in the growth and healthy development of the students, whereby teachers and coaches are dedicating their evenings to the students, and are bringing the classroom to the ice. It is after school hours, when supervision is sparse and boredom is at a high, that youth find themselves getting into and looking for trouble. That is why the NYHDP has selected partnerships with the Kativik School Board and local recreation centres; it creates a prolonged educational environment enriched with adult and peer support and mentorship.

The children’s coaches are responsible for not only teaching them the game of hockey; they are responsible for checking their school attendance records and weekly school reports. The collaboration between the coaches and the teachers provides the children with structural continuity. As long as their school work and attendance are in good standing, the students are able to log ice time. Although the program is not directly designed for disciplinary purposes, it serves as a binary structural guideline for the children to remain focused on their studies, in order to score ice time with their peers. The NYHDP is an inclusive program. It does not discriminate any child based on grades, or income. As some of these children come from broken homes and low income households, the NYHDP provides them with hockey equipment as they need it. This is made possible through donations from such sources as The Canadian Tire Foundation and its “Bon Départ” Program, who donated equipment back in November 2009. This program promotes healthy bodies and healthy minds. The idea is that if the students are physically active and nourishing their minds, it will translate into their school work and have a positive effect on their classroom and social behaviour. The program is capitalizing on the excitement of hockey and using it as a means to motivate these students to do well at school, home and on the ice. The principle message of the NYHDP is that lessons are not just imparted in the school arena. Life lessons and skills can be imparted in the hockey arena as well. The Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program is enriching these children’s lives with work ethic, team building, self confidence and awareness which are all crucial life skills.

these children have been signing up and dedicating their time to their respective teams in large numbers. In spring 2010, there were approximately 450 students from 14 Nunavik communities that actively participated in the Regional Minor Hockey tournament. It was the first regional tournament of its kind under the NYHDP, but will certainly not be the last. In addition to the regional tournament, over 150 Nunavik students partook in the NYHDP Select Program. From the Atom level to the Midget level, the interest in the Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program has been staggering since its launching in 2006. In 2011, the number of hockey participants continues to grow. If the program is consistently applied and managed correctly, with the teachers, principles, provincial government and students working in unison, the NYHDP should continue grooming hockey enthusiasts and scholars for years to come.

More Than Just A Game This initiative goes beyond just the social and delves into the political. The Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program and its team are not just encouraging healthy living, education and community, they are promoting and strengthening human rights and judicial equality for Inuit youth.

For the Love of the Game, For the Love of Our Children As there are many children within the Inuit community in Quebec that are plighted with tumultuous and unstable homes, with little to no mentorship or activities to keep them motivated, the game of hockey has proven to be the life line that they so much deserve. It is with a love for the game and a desire to be a part of something positive that hopeforthefuture.ca

Aboriginal

University and College Entrance Program Designed for aboriginal adults 21 years of age or older • A fast track, 8-month day program Courses combine 10-20-30 English and math subject matter • Students participate in a career development course Introductory computer training • University-level Cree language course available Develop the skills to enter most university and college programs Gold Bar Campus • 10537 44 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6A 1W1

(780) 413-7800 • www.concordia.ab.ca

first nations resource magazine

well as the self confidence, skills and direction it imparts on them. Parents are a crucial component to the success of this program. Without their support, the NYHDP would surely dissipate. Parents are acknowledging and recognizing that this program provides their children with something to work towards; something to look forward to. The kind of community within a community that the NYHDP has established is invaluable. It may be safe to say that many of the parents, teachers, coaches, partners and leaders involved in this remarkable program would attest that they are learning valuable lessons along with the students.

On June 17, 2010, the NYHDP was acknowledged by the Order of Quebec Social Workers as an effective forum for addressing and tackling the prominent issues surrounding the social values, equality and justice which plagues many Inuit Canadian communities. As a result of their dedication to the program, its vision and the Nunavik students from 2006-2010, the organization and the Makivik Corporation (the promoter) were awarded as Honorary Members of the Quebec Order. The Order recognized that the NYHDP initiative is a proactive and hands-on way of moulding the younger generation of Inuit Canadians into tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community leaders and mentors. Garnering the acknowledgement from the Order of Quebec Social Workers has validated the efforts of the NYHDP and its partners. It has demonstrated that indeed there remains a need for action within our Inuit communities, not just in Quebec, but across Canada. Our youth will be left behind should we choose to not be proactive in positively contributing to the course of their lives. Education, both in the classroom and within society, is the key to all of their success. Once our youth are given life tools and shown how to apply them, the foundation will be set for their futures.

One of the ultimate goals of the Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program is to expand itself and its vision all across Canada; improving the lives of Inuit children one goal at a time. One would be hard pressed to find negative implications to this program. Its vision for a brighter future for our Inuit youth in Quebec and across Canada is attainable and the NYHDP are proving it. With a dedicated team of education professionals, political affiliates, athletes, social equity enthusiasts and partners heading up the NYHDP, this program is positioned to be a driving force in improving the quality of life for the Inuit community. Although many of these children have differing home lives, incomes, and experiences, they all have one thing in common; a love of hockey. It is this passion that has unified not only these children, but this community. They may not all become NHL stars, but they can be the leaders of their own lives, and perhaps one day, be the leaders of this great nation.

www.nyhdp.ca

The Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program has generated positive feedback from many of the parents of the program participants. There is an appreciation for the structure that the program provides their children, as

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

2010 marks a year for collaboration and change. Building on new partnerships and engagement with federal, provincial and territorial governments through the Aboriginal Affairs Working Group, meeting with the Ministers of Status of Women, and most recently, the Conference of the Federation meeting with the Premiers in August, 2010, the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) has developed an Action Plan for Aboriginal Women. This framework for action has been shaped by the immediate need for investment is resources to support the physical and mental health needs of Aboriginal communities, as well as the goal to advance the social health and wellbeing of women, girls, families and communities.

While there have been great efforts in recent years to invest and achieve better outcomes for Aboriginal peoples, much of the policy and investment is based on models that have not worked.

While there have been great efforts in recent years to invest and achieve better outcomes for Aboriginal peoples, much of the policy and investment is based on models that have not worked. NWAC’s Action Plan for Aboriginal Women focuses on responding to needs based on the current jurisdictional framework and divisions of power within the Canadian state. This is a realistic and collaborative approach that builds on the knowledge, expertise and understanding of the needs of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples that comes from the five National Aboriginal Organizations (NWAC, AFN, ITK, MNC, and CAP), and calls on the federal, provincial, and territorial governments to commit to targeted investment and policy change.

An Action Plan for Aboriginal Women A life cycle approach to rebuilding families and communities is at the core of the education and outreach work of NWAC, as well as the policy areas and action or activities that NWAC believes will have the greatest impact for Aboriginal women. The goal of NWAC’s Action Plan for Aboriginal Women is to achieve better outcomes for Aboriginal women, families and communities and is built on the following three pillars: 1) Ending violence against Aboriginal women and girls 2) Economic Development 3) Education

hopeforthefuture.ca

The only thing more powerful than our systems? Your imagination.

The technologies we create define leading-edge. So do our opportunities. Join Raytheon, one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most admired defence and aerospace systems suppliers, and apply your mind in ways that you have always thought possible. Advance engineering with a diversity of people and talents. Take on challenges that defy conventional thinking. And meet us at the forefront of innovation.

Raytheon 1/2 page ad: Landscape style: 19 c.m. wide by 12 c.m. long Black & white Resolution: 200-300 pixels/inch Format: PDF

first nations resource magazine

Please visit our career pages at the website listed below or submit a resume to hr@raytheon-ssd.com.

However, to achieve these goals, NWAC has identified guiding principles to ensure equal outcomes for Aboriginal women and girls, as well as men and boys. The following guiding principles support the development of the Action Plan: Equality: Based on a culture and gender equality approach, this goal assumes that women and men, boys and girls should, where possible, have similar access to resources and opportunities and experience similar outcomes. Opportunity and Choice: Aboriginal women and girls must have the opportunity and choice to choose a life path and have the choice to pursue it. Full and Active Participation: The goal of full and active participation aims to ensure that all Aboriginal women are able to participate in society as they choose and are not limited or constrained by discrimination (either direct or indirect), lack of opportunity or lack of adequate support. Adequate Resources: Resources can include money, adequate time, education, health care, and support. Aboriginal women and girls should have adequate resources that are not linked to their dependency on another person. No Discrimination: The right to be free from discrimination is guaranteed in Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms; however, to expand on the rights guaranteed through the Constitution Act, this goal incorporates both direct discrimination and discrimination through structures or systems that limit access to services based on identity, geography, or lack of culturally sensitive services. Society that Values the Contribution of Aboriginal Women: For the contribution of First Nations, MĂŠtis, and Inuit women to society to be truly valued, value and recognition needs to occur at an individual, family, community, regional and national level. This needs to incorporate the contribution Aboriginal women make through unpaid work (such as raising children, caring for Elders, and building strong families and communities) and equal value acknowledged and reflected in paid work. Under each of the three pillars, NWAC has identified opportunities and developed recommendations for meaningful change. From targeted investment in health and social services to respond to women and families who are victims of violence, to equitable funding opportunities for Aboriginal women in business, to increasing the participation of women in leadership and decision making roles in the education system, Aboriginal women are key to the success of future generations. As leaders on this journey of change, NWAC is also committed to taking a stand. Addressing the socioeconomic disparities, poor educational outcomes and issues of violence against Aboriginal women and girls is a complex and complicated endeavor; one that neither Canada nor NWAC can achieve in isolation. It is for this reason a coordinated federal, provincial and territorial Action Plan for Aboriginal Women is necessary. NWAC is committed to achieving equal outcomes for all Aboriginal women, recognizing distinct cultures, traditions, and identities. As a collective voice for Aboriginal women from coast to coast to coast, we believe this Action Plan is a building block for change.

first nations resource magazine

T Personally, I witnessed violence first hand starting from my grandmother, mother, myself and eventually my daughter; we were all victims of inter-generational abuse.

he Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres (OFIFC) is an urban Aboriginal organization representing the collective interests of twenty-nine member Friendship Centres located in towns and cities throughout Ontario. The primary mandate of OFIFC is to advocate on behalf of its member Friendship Centres with respect to issues of collective concern; to administer programmes delivered in Friendship Centres, and to assist member Friendship Centres with service, programme delivery and community development. The vision of the Friendship Centre movement of which the OFIFC is a part is “to improve the quality of life of Aboriginal people living in an urban environment by supporting self-determined activities which encourage equal access to and participation in Canadian Society and which respects Aboriginal cultural distinctiveness.” The OFIFC is dedicated to achieving greater participation of all Aboriginal people (Métis, First Nation/Status Indian, Inuit and people who identify as Aboriginal) in all facets of society regardless of their location of residence within the province of Ontario. To help achieve this, OFIFC administers a number of programmes and initiatives related to areas such as health and wellness, justice, family support, children and youth, education, and employment skills development and training. As well, the OFIFC is involved in a number of policy and research activities which promote and support the service delivery activities of our member Friendship Centres while keeping in mind the needs of the urban Aboriginal community at large. Kanawayhitowin – Taking Care of Each Others Spirit RoseAnna When I was growing up, violence in my community was not uncommon and many of us were de-sensitized to woman abuse. Few people spoke out against abusers and there was not very much support for victims of domestic abuse. Personally, I witnessed violence first hand starting from my grandmother, mother, myself and eventually my daughter; we were all victims of intergenerational abuse. Today, there are various programs that allow people to speak out and find support, and this is major step forward in breaking the cycle of abuse. I am a facilitator for a program run by the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centers (OFIFC) called Kanawayhitowin. Kanawayhitowin is a Cree word which translates into “taking care of each other’s spirit”.

I was nervous when my abusive partner was around and became increasingly shameful as a result of the abuse.

hopeforthefuture.ca

Barristers & Solicitors

Serving First Nations for over 30 Years Aboriginal Litigation and Treaty Rights Land Claims & Treaty Negotiations Reserve Related Claims Aboriginal Governance & Employment Issues Fisheries and Forestry Matters Commercial and Non-profit Entities Community Development

TRANSITION YEAR PROGRAM

Tel.: (604) 988-5201

For application forms and further information, please contact:

500-221 West Esplande North Vancouver, BC V7M 3J3

Patricia Doyle-Bedwell, Director, Transition Year Program Dalhousie University, Halifax, N.S. B3H 3J5

www.ratcliff.com

Phone: (902) 494-8810

Fax: (604) 988-1452

Transition Year Program Dalhousie University Halifax, N.S. B3H 3P9 Phone: (902) 494-3730

first nations resource magazine

Henson College, Dalhousie University

If you are a First Nation adult and are interested in attending university, but do not feel ready, you might want to consider the Transition Year Program (TYP). We enroll approximately 30 First Nations and African Canadian students per year.

An important part of the Kanawayhitowin campaign is educating people on recognizing the signs of violence. These signs can be physical, such as black eyes and bruises which are easier to identify right away. However, emotional signs are harder to notice and this campaign outlines in detail what some of these can be on their website: www.kanwayhitwoin.ca. In my experience, I was nervous when my abusive partner was around and became increasingly shameful as a result of the abuse. Victims of abuse often feel like the violence is partly their fault which leads to feelings of shame, depression and even substance abuse as a way to cope. If you’re a child it’s important that you have the power to stand up against violence; you can talk to teachers, counsellors and other people and be protected, and take care of each other’s spirit. If there are any women out there experiencing violence, get help, it’s there. Raven For me to even tell my mom I was being abused by my partner was totally out of the question. There was no way I was going to tell my mom, and there was no way I would tell my friends. My mom and I have a very close relationship and we always have. Eventually when I did speak up, the ball started rolling towards my overcoming an abusive relationship. You need someone to ask if this is right; someone to see the signs and ask you questions. Some of the warning signs include: she may be apologetic; make excuses; can be aggressive or angry; she may be nervous in front of him; may be quiet; will be sick more often; will miss work; may cover bruises; will cancel plans frequently; there may be a change in appearance; she may wear baggy clothes; and she won’t wear makeup anymore. It takes a lifestyle change to overcome an abusive relationship. I can see now the generational effect within my family with domestic violence; my mom broke free from the cycle of violence and started communicating better with us. She was healing and trying to find better ways to cope in her life. It is up to friends and family members to be aware of the signs of abuse and help victims take the first step. It’s often victims of abuse who find it difficult to admit what is happening to them or are afraid for their well-being if they speak up against their abuser. Providing a support system for these women and men is vital to break free from the cycle of domestic violence. The Kanawayhitowin Programme The teaching behind Kanawayhitowin program states that when we are born our spirits are pure and whole. As we journey through our time on earth, our spirit may encounter abuse and neglect. Everyone has the right to have their spirit protected, and the responsibility to take care of the sacredness of life. Kanawayhitowin is an Aboriginal campaign to raise awareness about the signs of woman abuse in our communities, so that people who are close to an at-risk woman or abusive man can provide support. The OFIFC provides administrative support and management for Kanawayhitowin. In addition they take direction from the Provincial Aboriginal Expert Panel which includes a Traditional Elder. The Expert Panel advises on all promotional materials developed, training outlines, evaluation designs and policy and programme considerations. Please visit www.kanawayhitowin.ca

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

“The empty glasses represent individuals that are living without access to clean drinking water. I wanted the symbol to be something

t 50 years old, Algoma University student Joanne Robertson is taking on the biggest challenge of her life. Her goal is to ensure that all First Nation communities in Canada have safe drinking water. Her mission began in March of 2009 after attending a Community Economic and Social Development (CESD) class at Algoma University where the topic of discussion was human rights. “At the United Nations Commission on Human Rights, Canada was the only one to vote against water as a human right. I was shocked by this”, says Robertson. “Water is a human right. It is necessary to sustain all life.”

A research assignment presented Robertson with the inspiration to begin her campaign. While writing a paper for her Modern Arts class in March 2009, she saw a Guy Limone art installation that used plastic figurines and blood red paint to show how many people had been murdered in New York City. She connected with the piece immediately, and very quickly developed the core of the Empty Glass for Water campaign. “The idea came to me within 20 minutes,” she explains, “I knew that I needed to attach a symbol to those who were invisible.”

As a student studying Graphic Design and Native Arts & Culture, Robertson wanted to use what she had learned from both the CESD program and Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig to make a difference and draw attention to the dire need of many First Nation communities in Canada who go without life’s basic necessity. “We’ve all heard about Walkerton, but have we heard about the First Nation communities that go without safe drinking water?” Robertson questions. “1 in 6 First Nation communities in Canada are on a boil-water advisory.”

That symbol was an empty glass, 350 of which she has personally mailed for students and community members to the Prime Minister of Canada, the first being mailed in the spring of 2009, the day after the idea struck her. “The empty glasses represent individuals that are living without access to clean drinking water. I wanted the symbol to be something physical, that couldn’t be shredded, but at the same time fragile, like the children in our communities who live without this precious gift.”

physical, that couldn’t be shredded, but at the same time fragile, like the children in our communities who live without this precious gift.”

Robertson is unaware of how many glasses have been sent. “It started out as one idea, but it’s definitely a community campaign now,” she proudly states. “The Algoma University community has been behind this campaign from the beginning. The Shingwauk Aboriginal Student Association (SASA) and the Algoma University Student Union (AUSU) both support the campaign, and it has recently been unanimously supported by the Canadian Federation of Students. hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

The success of the campaign has reached the highest levels of government, since Chief Dean Sayers of Batchewana First Nation and Chief Laurie Carr of Hiawatha First Nation first helped her to submit resolutions to the Assembly of First Nations and the Chiefs in Ontario. The resolutions were adopted without opposition by the Assembly of First Nations in September of 2009. In December of 2009 Chief Dean Sayers hand-delivered a glass to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and a glass was hand-delivered via Josephine Mandamin, Mother Earth Water Walker, to Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.

in Arts to the full three years. Students could now earn their degrees in Sault Ste. Marie. In September 1971, the College was relocated to its own campus. The College moved to the site of the now-closed Shingwauk Indian Residential School. Extensive renovations were completed to Shingwauk Hall, and temporary buildings were constructed to provide a Science Laboratory, Music Conservatory, Language Laboratory, office and classroom facilities.

When asked about how far the Empty Glass for Water campaign has come in such a short period of time, Robertson is humble. “I haven’t personally left campus to promote it, so it still feels surreal,” she says. “I want to keep it grassroots.” To do so, Robertson organizes fundraising events to raise money for the campaign. She has enlisted student help to create a film (Glass Action, available on YouTube) and is in the process of developing a website (www.emptyglassforwater.ca) that will allow supporters to inform her about glasses they send, as well as track water ceremonies worldwide. “Greet, pray and leave tobacco at all bodies of water. We need to show our gratitude and respect for the water,” says Robertson. As a graduating student of the Algoma University class of 2010, Robertson is starting to look beyond graduation, but feels very passionate about the continuation of the Empty Glass for Water campaign. “I came to postsecondary education later in life,” she says, “but it’s been a great experience for me. I was overwhelmed, with the launch of the campaign, how generous people can be with their time and efforts, and I am so grateful to have had this experience. I want it to flourish even after my time here, and hope that the momentum it has achieved can be sustained.” Robertson realizes the enormity of the task, “This month the federal government introduced new drinking water legislation for First Nations. Bill S-11 provides no guarantees that drinking water infrastructure will be improved,” she emphatically adds “there is much work to be done.” FROM ALGOMA COLLEGE TO ALGOMA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE TO ALGOMA UNIVERSITY The desire to establish an undergraduate Liberal Arts College in Sault Ste. Marie originated as a broad citizens’ movement in the 1950s. In October of 1964, the Algoma College Association was incorporated by Letters Patent of the Province of Ontario. One year later, Algoma College was established as a non-sectarian institution affiliated with Laurentian University. In September of 1967, Algoma College opened its doors to its first students. Its program for full-time students was limited to the first year of the B.A. and B.Sc. degrees. In part-time studies, the College was permitted to offer the full B.A. program. In the early years, part-time enrolment expanded rapidly.

In 1973, construction of a library wing was completed. In 1989, the Arthur A. Wishart Library was opened and other renovations completed. In 1992, the George Leach Centre was opened for athletics and recreation. A student residence was completed and occupied in September 1995 with a new addition available in September 2001. In 2005, the construction of a new Information Communication Technology (ICT) building was completed. The next waved of multi-million dollar campus expansion projects are underway, with the BioSciences & Technology Convergence Centre slated to open in 2011.

The strong community support that led to the founding of the College continued during the early years of its development. The citizens of Sault Ste. Marie, through their municipal government, provided major assistance to the College in the form of capital and operating funds. In addition, local industries, businesses, service clubs, and individuals established a scholarship program for students attending the College.

In 2006, Algoma University signed a Covenant with the Shingwauk Education Trust, which commits both institutions to grow together, providing mutual support. Algoma University is proud to serve the Anishinaabe (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) people of the Algoma District and beyond, and the Covenant provides a firm foundation for future development of Anishinaabe education, both by Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig and by Algoma University.

The year 1971 marked a significant turning point in the College’s history in respect to both program and facilities. The provincial Department of University Affairs authorized the expansion of full-time degree studies

On June 18th, 2008, the Government of Ontario dissolved Algoma University College and created Algoma University, Ontario’s 19th university.

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

Algoma’s special mission is: (a) to be a teaching-oriented university that provides programs in liberal arts and sciences and professional programs, primarily at the undergraduate level, with a particular focus on the needs of northern Ontario; and (b) to cultivate cross-cultural learning between Aboriginal communities and other communities, in keeping with the history of Algoma University and its geographic site. Algoma University is primarily a teaching university. The University’s first concern is meaningful, innovative and quality university education. Students at Algoma U find a broad choice of programs, covering the humanities, sciences, social sciences and professional areas such as Business. Faculty research supports teaching excellence, and student participation in basic and applied research is encouraged. THE LEGACY OF CHIEF SHINGWAUK The Shingwauk School, or “Teaching Wigwam”, was originally envisaged by the great Ojibway Chief Shingwaukonse (1773-1854) as a learning place for cross-cultural understanding and synthesis of traditional Anishinabek and modern European knowledge and learning. Commissioned in 1832 in co-operation with Canadian Government and Anglican Church partners as part of St. John’s Mission to the Ojibway, the Shingwauk School was opened in Sault Ste. Marie in 1833, relocated to Garden River (1838-74), and to the current site as the Shingwauk Industrial Home (18741935). It was renamed the Shingwauk Indian Residential School (1935-70).

Canada’s First Nations that Algoma University assumed upon its relocation in 1971 to the site of the former Shingwauk Indian Residential School. Inspired by Shingwauk’s Vision, the Shingwauk Project and the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA – former students of the Shingwauk Indian Residential School, and staff, descendants, families and friends) are partnered with Algoma U, the Anglican Church, the Shingwauk Education Trust (SET), the Dan Pine Healing Lodge, and others to: research, collect, preserve and display the history of the Residential Schools; develop and deliver projects of “sharing, healing and learning” in relation to the impacts of the Schools, and of individual and community cultural restoration; and accomplish “the true realization of Chief Shingwauk’s Vision” through the establishment of Shingwauk University.

commemoration issues. CSAA members serve on the Residential Schools Working Group of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the United Nations’ World Council of Indigenous Peoples and many other local, regional and national organizations. The Shingwauk Project and the CSAA have undertaken many activities since 1979 including reunions, healing circles, publications, videos, photo displays, curriculum development, and the establishment of archive, library and heritage collections, as well as a Shingwauk Directory and website (www.shingwauk.auc.ca). Over many years and in many ways these have been generously supported by Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments, churches, non-governmental organizations and private individuals.

With the support of The Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association and Algoma University, the history and activities associated with the Shingwauk Indian Residential School are being gathered under the auspices of The Shingwauk Project so that the public may become more aware of the vast history and tradition represented by the Shingwauk buildings and site. Through the CSAA, the campus is home to the national office of the National Residential School Survivors’ Society (NRSSS) that represents the Indian, Inuit and Metis survivors of the Residential School system of Canada. The CSAA also operates the regional office of Resolution Canada’s ADR Pilot Project that addresses Residential School claims and

The legacy of Chief Shingwauk became warped by the federal government’s goal of assimilation and integration, as evidenced by the federal residential school policy. Still, it was the echoes of the original dream of cross-cultural understanding, aboriginal rights and self-determination that survived to reshape the mission and identity of Algoma University. THE SHINGWAUK PROJECT The Shingwauk Project is a cross-cultural research and educational development project of Algoma University and the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA). It was founded in 1979 by its current Director in collaboration with Dr. Lloyd Bannerman of AUC, Chief Ron Boissoneau (19352000) of Garden River, Shingwauk Alumnus and Elder Dr. Dan Pine Sr. (1900-1992) of Garden River, and others who recognized the profound importance of the commitment to the Shingwauk Trust and the relationship with hopeforthefuture.ca

Star Egg

1302 Quebec Avenue, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 1V5

306.244.4041

Fax: 306.664.6619

(306) 275-4500 or 1-800-878-7714 Fax: (306) 275-4720

Bruce Power P.O. Box 1540, 117 Tie Road, RR2 Tiverton ON NOG 2T0

519-361-2673

Hill Country Clothing 116 Jasper Street Maple Creek, SK S0N 1N0

Ph. 306-662-5010 Fax: 306-662-4465

first nations resource magazine

GE Canada 107 Park Street North, Peterborough, ON K9J 3V6

(705) 748-8486

first nations resource magazine

ine Point was the largest and most profitable lead-zinc mine in Canadian history and produced 64 million tons of ore at a grade of 7 percent zinc and 3 percent lead from 1964 and 1987. Hundreds of jobs were created by the mine in both the town of Pine Point and the neighboring towns in Canada’s remote Northwest Territories. The economics changed at Pine Point in the mid-1980s when lead and zinc prices fell and mining costs increased due to longer transport distances for the ore to the mill. The costs of maintaining the town also had a negative impact on the economics and these factors resulted in the mine being shut down and the town removed in 1987. “In the 1960s, when the Pine Point mine first went into production, they didn’t have the fly-in, fly-out operations that are used today,” says Mike Willett, CEO of Tamerlane Ventures and a base metal miner with 30 years’ experience. “When companies built mines in remote areas, they basically had to build a town and keep that town going to make it work.”

RELIABLE PROPANE SERVICE Industrial • Commercial Vehicle • Residential

STITTCO

ENERGY LIMITED TOTAL ENERGY SUPPLY

Churchill, Man. (204) 675-2645 • Flin Flon (204) 687-3493 Lynn Lake (204) 356-8432 • Snow Lake (204) 358-2530 The Pas (204) 623-3493 • Thompson (204) 677-2304 Hay River, NWT (867) 874-2432

first nations resource magazine

In the fall of 2010, Margaret “Peggy” Kent, Executive Chairman of Tamerlane, began seeking funding to place Pine Point back into production using new technologies. Ms. Kent has helped fund two publicly traded mining concerns and arranged for over $1 billion in public and private debt and equity financing for companies in Canada and the USA. By utilizing technologies successfully employed at other types of mining operations and having workers and supplies from the communities of Hay River and Fort Resolution, Tamerlane’s feasibility study has shown that the Pine Point mine can be very profitable. The environmental permitting was completed at the same time as the feasibility study and currently Tamerlane has the necessary permits to place the project into production. Pine Point will also benefit from the existing infrastructure in the area, which significantly reduces the capital cost of the project. “The hydro power line and paved road passes within a kilometer of the planned mine site. Just half an hour away is the town of Hay River where the rail head is located. In addition, Hay River has an airport with daily flights to Edmonton and Yellowknife. The town also has other excellent facilities such as an industrial park and a well-equipped regional hospital,” Willett observed. The mine will employ established technologies used at other mines such as the freeze technology that is used in the potash mines to sink their shafts through an aquifer. The ore bodies at Pine Point occur in an aquifer and by using the freeze technology the water ceases to be a problem. Dense Media Separation is a technique used to separate heavy minerals from the lighter waste rock and is used in the lead-zinc, coal, and diamond mines to produce a concentrate. Tamerlane will use this technology to preconcentrate the Pine Point ore prior to milling, which will reduce the size of the mill needed. The resulting higher grade ore will also allow the ore to be transported a greater distance prior to conventional milling. The shaft planned for the Pine Point Mine is short and perfectly suited to the use of a vertical conveyor to move the ore to surface rather than a conventional hoist. This will allow more material to be moved at a much lower cost and allow the hoist to be used for moving personnel and supplies.

If the mine is financed later in 2011, it could be up and running within an 18 to 24 month timeframe, which would be perfect timing. “It is interesting that in 2013, when the mine becomes operational, about 20 percent of the world’s current lead-zinc production capacity will be shut down. There are some large mines that are projected to be shut down at that time, but most of the planned new capacity will not be online until 2015 to 2020. This creates a window of time where zinc prices could reach US$2.00 per pound and lead prices could reach US$1.40 to US$1.50 per pound. At these prices the Pine Point project will generate significant cash flow and enable the project debt to be paid down quickly,” Willett observed. Tamerlane completed its feasibility study in August of 2008, just as the markets began to collapse and the global credit crisis began. “It was a severe blow and 2009 was not a time to be seeking to finance the project. Instead, available funding was used to drill off the N-204 deposit, which we expect to bring into resources shortly. The market started to come back in 2010 and is currently gaining momentum,” said Willett. The revival of the Pine Point Mine will mean a win not just for Tamerlane but also for the entire south shore region of Great Slave Lake. “The communities in the area are very excited about our project’s 220 high-paying jobs being created,” Willett says. “It’s a situation where we could make a positive economic impact over the long term. We’ve got nine years of reserves ahead of us now and we are looking to get up to 15 to 20 years of mine life, not including exploration possibilities. I came to Tamerlane for one reason, and that’s because I think Pine Point is an extremely exciting project,” he concluded.

Tamerlane can be contacted at its web site address: www.tamerlaneventures.com.

In early November of 2010, Tamerlane announced it had obtained US$10 million in bridge financing, which will fund the Company until the larger financing is completed. “We just started the process of lining up the funding in the last month and we expect that by the end of the first quarter of 2011 we’ll have a plan in place,” says Kent.

Chesterfield Inlet, NU X0C 0B0

Telephone: (867) 898-9951 Fax: (867) 898-9108

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

The “Ring of Fire”, the emerging mineral district in the James Bay Lowlands of Ontario, has generated a great deal of excitement from geologists and investors over the past few years. Cliffs Natural Resources Inc., an international mining and natural resources company active in Canada’s mining scene for nearly 50 years, is currently considering the responsible development of a world-class chromite ore resource base in the area, which has the potential to form the foundation of North America’s only ferrochrome production operation. Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. has remained in the forefront of the North American iron ore business since opening its first mine in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in 1850. Cliffs is the largest producer of iron ore pellets in North America, a major supplier of direct-shipping lump and fines iron ore out of Australia, and a significant producer of metallurgical coal. Cliffs has been operating in Canada since 1965, when it first became managing partner of Wabush Mine, an iron ore mine and pelletizing plant in Eastern Canada. At the end of 2009, Cliffs purchased the interests of its former Wabush partners, becoming its sole owner. Cliffs has been a leader in iron ore mining technology, and a pioneer of early open-pit and underground mining methods. Its research and development group is staffed with experienced engineers and scientists organized to support geological interpretation, process mineralogy, mine engineering, mineral processing, pyrometallurgy, advanced process control and analytical service disciplines. This vast expertise in open-pit mining and mineral processing can be applied towards mining chromite, which employs many of the same techniques as iron ore. Chromite is an essential raw material for the production of chromium. More than 90% of chromite ore is converted to ferrochrome, a critical ingredient in the production of stainless steel, as well as other steels and nonferrous alloys. End markets for stainless steel, alloy steel and other products that use ferrochrome include transportation, electrical, engineering, building & construction and metal goods. In addition, chromite is a key industrial mineral in the steel industry for the manufacture of refractory bricks, furnace linings and foundry sand. Chromite is also used in the production of chromium chemicals. In many applications, it is considered irreplaceable, as substitution would result in increased costs and decreased performance. Currently, most resources and production are in the Eastern Hemisphere, requiring all stainless steel producers in North America and most of Europe and Asia to import ferrochrome. Market reports estimate that four countries—South Africa, Kazakhstan, Finland and Turkey—control nearly 80% of the world’s 24 million tonnes of chromite ore production. Because of its proximity to North American and European stainless steel production, a merchant ferrochrome operation in Ontario would have a distinct competitive freight advantage over producers in other parts of the world.

Workers create unions to achieve fairness, dignity and respect in their workplace

Aboriginal workers know that collectively they have a stronger voice in the workplace and benefit from Union representation.

The Public Service Alliance of Canada has been working to represent and support Aboriginal Sisters and Brothers for many years. PSAC supports Aboriginal self-determination and understands the complexity of your history being subject to colonization. • • •

PSAC’s National Aboriginal, Inuit and Métis Network integrates your communities into the Union. PSAC is holding its first exclusive Aboriginal members’ conference in 2008. PSAC recognizes that inclusion is the only way to break down barriers.

If you would like more information on union representation from PSAC, contact Dave Thompson, Organizer at 604-430-5631 (office), 604-828-2660 (cell), or by e-mail at: thompsd@psac.com Or visit our Web site at www.psacbc.com

first nations resource magazine

Cliffs, 100% owner of the “Black Thor” and “Black Label” chromite deposits and 47% owner of the “Big Daddy” deposits, believes they are the highest quality deposits in Canada’s “Ring of Fire” district, and would provide a significantly long mine life and expansion potential. Diamonddrill core samples within these deposits have consistently intersected significant chromite zones with world-class thickness, grade and chromium to iron (Cr:Fe) ratios to supply a lowcost, open-pit mining operation. The planned mine would be expected to produce 1 million to 2 million tonnes of high-grade chromite ore annually, which would be further processed into 400,000-800,000 tonnes of ferrochrome. Planning, consultation, engineering and permitting efforts associated with the development of a chromite project is a significant undertaking, lasting several years. A formal study of the chromium deposits is expected to be completed in 2010. Plans to bring the deposit to market would include construction of the open-pit mine and minesite processing facility, as well as a remote electric arc furnace (EAF) to further process the ore into high-grade ferrochrome. The EAF facility would be anticipated to be located on the north shore of Lake Superior. Should the project go forward as planned, the permitting process is anticipated to

require approximately three years, with production commencing around 2015. Cliffs has strived to remain at the forefront of responsible mining and mineral processing development. Building on a strong foundation of environmental stewardship and respectful engagement with local communities and indigenous peoples, it now owns and/or controls successful mining and processing operations in Australia, Canada and the U.S. Cliffs intends to adopt and utilize its policies, procedures and guidance documents, such as its corporate Environmental Policy, to the Ring of Fire chromite development project. In addition to utilizing careful planning and applying environmental and social impact assessments procedures in line with Canadian regulatory requirements, Cliffs also intends to develop and implement an ISO 14001 Environmental Management System early in the project. Cliffs’ initial work includes installing a dedicated Environmental Affairs director, engaging expert consultants to develop a permitting and consultation road map, and conducting extensive environmental and social baseline data collection. This process also includes engagement of services

provided by an indigenously-owned consulting firm to ensure integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge. This will complement a scientific approach and help capture knowledge, practices, and beliefs acquired by indigenous and local peoples over hundreds of years through direct experience and interaction with the environment. In further demonstration of its commitment to local stakeholders, Cliffs also expects to pursue an Impact Benefit Agreement with and seek support of aboriginal communities in the project area. The objective of such an agreement would be to negotiate a mutually beneficial approach to project benefit sharing (includingtraining, employment and contracting) and environmental stewardship. Site selection options, including that for a submerged electric arc furnace, and access to infrastructure and energy will be carefully reviewed. State-of-the-art environmental safeguards associated with waste rock, tailing management facilities, processing waste materials, site water management and air emission controls will be implemented. Cliffs is committed to applying its principle of environmental stewardship and respectful engagement with local communities and indigenous peoples as it has throughout North America since 1850 and in Australia since 2005.

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

ard Creek Nickel Corporation is a Canadian nickel exploration and development company that owns 100% of the Turnagain Project, located in Northern British Columbia about 70 kilometers east of Dease Lake. Hard Creek Nickel is currently conducting studies aimed towards developing an open pit mine and processing facility at the site. The property consists of 65 contiguous mineral claims covering an area of approximately 33,200 hectares. While nickel is the principal mineral that will be mined, cobalt is an important byproduct and platinum group metals have also been identified in the deposit. Exploration to date on the property has included geological mapping, geophysical and geochemical surveys and more than 75,620 meters of diamond drilling in 304 holes. In 2007, Turnagain was the largest grass roots exploration program in British Columbia. Additional drilling in the fall of 2010 was conducted to obtain samples for a metallurgical improvement program currently underway. In April 2010 a Preliminary Assessment PA on the project was completed by Wardrop, an independent engineering firm. The PA estimated cash operating costs (net of cobalt byproduct credits) of U.S. $3.30 per pound of nickel produced at the Turnagain Project. The PA forecast the Turnagain Project to produce an average of 35,000 tonnes (77 million pounds) per year of nickel metal over a mine life of 24.4 years at a daily milling rate of 87,000 tonnes per day. Hard Creek Nickel continues to optimize the mining and metallurgical processes. Hard Creek Nickel’s Turnagain Project contains one of the largest undeveloped nickel sulphide deposits in the world. Turnagain has the potential to become a world class mine with a 25 year mine life, and the deposit is open to the north, so the mine life could very well be much longer. The federal and provincial government currently have a $404 million commitment for a proposed power line to run between the Terrace substation to Bob Quinn Lake following the Hwy 37 corridor. Hard Creek is very encouraged by this initiative as having access to reasonably priced power is extremely important to the success of the Turnagain nickel project. Environmental reviews and ground surveys for the power

line are underway with a construction date scheduled for 2011. Hard Creek Nickel is a strong supporter of the recently launched British Columbia Aboriginal Mine Training Association who has opened a regional office in Dease Lake. Initially a three-year partnership, the program is in collaboration with government and aboriginal communities. The Association was formed to train and assist aboriginal peoples in finding gainful employment in the mining industry. Hard Creek Nickel is one of six mining companies that have agreed to support the initiative. “Our reason for being involved early on is to begin engaging and learning about the Aboriginal work force,” states Ed Beswick Manager of Environmental Affairs at Hard Creek.” “We will need good employees during our development and mining and this initiative has provided an important opportunity for us.” Mark Jarvis, President of Hard Creek Nickel stated: “We anticipate that when construction of the Turnagain Project commences that Tahltan and Kaska people and many other people in the north will play critical roles in the success of the project.” The Preliminary Assessment referred to in this presentation includes the use of inferred resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. The noted assessment results are preliminary in nature and there is no assurance the mining scenarios outlined would ever be realized.

Fleury

THEO Taking the High Road to Life by: Joyce Li

photo: Perry Thompson

Picture this. You reach a set of cross-roads after a treacherous and draining journey. You stand still, faced with three choices. If you continue in the same direction, nothing would change; you would continue down the path of uncertainty with no hope of redemption. To the right, you would find a smooth and enjoyable ride; but only after you faced a number of tormenting storms. The path to the left would lead to a cliff where you would drop instantaneously to your demise; quick and painless. Which path would you choose? It would be so easy to walk off the cliff; it would be the end of the uncertainty and confusion, but also the end of life. It would also be easy to continue down the path you’ve become accustomed to; it wouldn’t be enjoyable, but it would be familiar ground. Compare the above options with walking straight into a storm; it would just seem unreasonable to put yourself through that to reach stability. This is the situation Theoren Fleury was faced with in 2004, when he allegedly placed a loaded gun in his mouth and coveted suicide. How did this happen? Looking on from the outside, he seemed to have it all; Theoren (Theo) was a successful NHL Hockey Player who broke various franchise records. He had scored over 1000 points in his career and had the honour of representing Canada at the Winter Olympics. However, the person on the inside looking out was an angry and distressed individual. Fleury had carried the secret of being abused as a child for way too long. With no support system to confide in, Fleury resorted to alcohol and drugs to escape his pain. This life of substance abuse soon became Fleury’s new reality. “The people around me were as screwed up as I was. My life was just...chaos. It sounds weird, I know, but when you’re living it on a day-to-day basis, there seems to be a certain safety in that chaos.”

first nations resource magazine

As a child, Theo wanted nothing more than to become a renowned hockey player. At 13, he met his junior coach, Graham James. It would be the start of his dream come true, but also the beginning of a menacing nightmare. Theoren was convinced by James that he would make it in the big leagues, so long as he stayed close. Unfortunately for Theo, James’ definition of “close” was too close. James had young Fleury sleep over two nights a week, during which James would sexually assault and abuse him. Fleury lived with this secret throughout his adolescence, in fear that it would end his hockey career. “I could see how it would play. I would have been stigmatized forever as the kid who was molested by his coach...Would minor hockey have said, ‘Wow, we better watch out for Theoren and protect him because he told the truth’? No. It would have been James was a pervert and Fleury ‘let him’ molest him. Or I would be the equally pervy kid who had a ‘relationship’ with his coach.” Theo fought hard to make it to the NHL; he learned early on that he needed to play a physical game to protect himself from his opponents. At the same time, he also learned to bury his secret with drugs and alcohol, and occupy his free time with gambling and strip clubs. This life of disorder finally caught up to Fleury in 2003 when he was suspended for repeatedly violating the league’s substance abuse program. This suspension resulted in the end of his NHL career. Everything Theo had worked for was now gone; he had spent most of his income on alcohol, drugs, and gambling. All that was remaining were his malicious additions. Fleury had not only lost the confidence of the League, but he had lost confidence in himself. He knew he could not continue his life this way. “I no longer had faith in myself or my own judgement. And when you come down to it, that’s all a person has. Once it’s gone, how do you get it back?” This was when Theo reached his set of cross-roads.

no longer had faith in myself or my own judgement. And when you come down to it, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all a person has. Once itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gone, how do you get it back?

hopeforthefuture.ca

NATIONAL SCHOOL OF DENTAL THERAPY Now accepting applications for 2-year Dental Therapy training course in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan For more information on this excellent career opportunity please

(306) 763-8800 42

first nations resource magazine

call

He knew it wouldn’t be easy, but Fleury chose the path less travelled. He decided he was tired of being alone and angry. Like most victims of sexual abuse, he had blamed himself for what happened to him during his youth. With that, he weathered the many storms and fought to find sobriety. During this period, Theo met his wife, Jennifer, who he credits as a driving force to his recovery. Theoren merits Jennifer for turning his life around, and calls her his “rock”, his “glue”. “I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for her. I live a pretty quiet life now. No more peaks and valleys.” After overcoming all of the struggles to becoming sober, Theo wanted to do something to help and give hope to those facing similar situations. While he stated that he “doesn’t want to become the poster boy for abuse by James”, Theo hoped that by sharing his story, it might make it easier for other sexual abuse victims to speak out. Today, Fleury has become a sought-after motivational speaker. He tours the country, telling stories of his success and his crash, hoping to encourage others to seek help for their problems. He has also released an

autobiography, Playing With Fire, which has inspired several abuse victims to seek help. In addition to being a public speaker, an author, and song-writer, Theoren also spends much of his time volunteering and organizing various charitable causes. He stays close with his family in Calgary while frequently partaking in Flames Alumni events and doing volunteer work with the Calgary Dream Centre, an organization that helps people overcome substance abuse. In leading by example and inspiring with his testimonial, Theo wants people to know that while overcoming their personal issues is no easy task, it is possible.

Theo has touched the lives of many with his story. His fans have had the pleasure of listening to him speak at conferences, schools, community centres, health centres, and tribal counsels. In reading some of the comments below, it is that Fleury filled his audiences, both young and old, with a sense of empowerment and inspiration. “For us at CMHA this was the biggest event we have ever done and what a great event it was! We feel very blessed to have been able to bring Theoren to our communities (Swan River & Dauphin). His story and the message that he shared with us was so empowering. His raw honestly moved the audience members and touched each of us still to this day. It gave such a feeling of hope as the youth were held totally engaged by what he shared. For anyone who is fighting the battle of addictions, or abuse - this is such a success story and a must for anyone to hear! We would feel honoured to ever have the opportunity to sit down with Theoren and his family again. Such a wonderful being - a truly strong soul - he is a survivor!” Jennifer Belhumeur (CMHA Parkland) “Theo was a guest speaker at our conference in June of 2010. I found Theo to be very outgoing, approachable and genuine. I attended a Sweat Ceremony with him and his brother the night before the conference, this speaks to his pride in his heritage. Theo delivered a powerful message to our Youth at the centre and to the audience. His message was that of “hope”, that you can overcome your addictions through pride, inner strength and a belief in yourself. He truly is an inspirational speaker whose message can help others!” Vincent Simon (Ka-Na-Chi-Hih Treatment Centre) “We invited Theo Flury to come and visit our community and be a part of our Round Dance to acknowledge and honor Indian Residential School Survivors. He did meet and great with all of the Bigstone Health Commission Staff then went to a couple

schools here in our community, he was very down to earth and open to meeting the community. He later attended our Round Dance were he spoke about his story with Addiction and his abuse. We really appreciated how he opened up about his past experiences. Later in the evening he participated in the round Dance joining some of the local and out of town drummers and even part taking in dancing. All in all it went very well and we appreciated him taking the time out of his schedule to come and speak at our engagement.” Deborah Beaver (Bigstone Community Wellness) “When Theo Fleury addressed the crowd of more than 500 people at St. Clair College you could hear a pin drop. His message was both sad and powerful. Communities, schools, youth programs...all of us... have a responsibility to protect young people from the realities that Theo experienced. There is no doubt in my mind that the courage Theo Fleury displays in his presentations will result in saving a young person from the terrible abuse Theo never should have had to deal with” Ronald Seguin (St. Clair College) Theoren Fleury is just one of many people who was a victim of sexual abuse. He, like many, had carried the burden of his infliction by himself until it reached a point of crisis; his cross-roads. What makes Theo’s story exceptional is not the fact that he was a famous NHL player, but it is because he chose to fight to reclaim his life. While standing at his set of cross-roads, Theo could have continued straight down his path of destruction; continuing to let his addictions run his life. He also could have chosen to take a turn for the worst, and ended his life. Instead, he swerved to the right (knowing well that he would hit a fetw bumps), and decided to take the high road to life.

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

Grant MacEwan University’s Centre for the Arts and Communications is a uniquely creative and supportive community, home to a vibrant group of students who are focused on building careers in performing, visual and communication arts. The campus, located in west Edmonton, Alberta, is one of the most dynamic arts facilities in Western Canada. At MacEwan, you will be working with people who share a common goal – to become dedicated professionals in their disciplines. Our state-of-the-art facilities, small class sizes, and experienced instructors – many of whom work in their industry, come together to nurture the spirit that has inspired so many students to achieve their dreams. Highly respected by organizations and educational institutions throughout Canada, our graduates are recognized for their extensive knowledge and practical skills. Here are just some of our former students:

Jamie Bourque, Design Studies (Motion Image) – Jamie is a writer, producer, web developer and director. Jamie founded Square Pixel, and is part owner of Sweetgrass and Sage, both production companies that focus on projects with aboriginal content. His work includes documentaries on the Métis Federation and Métis settlements in Alberta, aboriginal war veterans, residential school survivors, transgender issues and aboriginal youth as role models. He’s developing an animation series, Mother Earth and Me to help reintroduce and teach aboriginal languages to Canadian children. Jamie is a 2010 Aboriginal Role Model Award winner through the National Aboriginal Health Organization and sits on the Aboriginal Healing Foundation as a youth advisor.

Sheldon Elter, Theatre Arts

– Sheldon is a Métis actor, writer, stand-up comic, musician and director originally from Northern Alberta. Sheldon plays the lead in the APTN TV series, Hank William’s First Nation. He has amassed numerous theatre credits and his one-man show, Métis Mutt, became a huge Fringe hit, scoring Sheldon two Sterling Awards: Best Actor in a Fringe Show and Best New Fringe Work (Award to

Playwright). Métis Mutt toured throughout Canada and New Zealand. Sheldon starred in the comedy sketch series Caution: May Contain Nuts, is co-founder of the cover band The Be Arthurs, created One Little Indian Productions, and is a member of the sketch comedy troupe Blacklisted.

Arnel and Scott Ethier, Music – Arnel and his brother Scott make up the Christian Rock band Bracing for Downpour. Arnel sings lead vocals, plays guitars and keyboards, while Scott plays drums and backup vocals. Together they create a surprisingly big sound that aims to move people by giving them something to think about. Their music is currently being played on over 175 radio stations in Canada and the United States. The band has opened for acts such as Parachute Band, Manafest, and Kiros. Their first CD is titled Bracing for Downpour. The brothers own HD Studios, recording home to several bands and artists. Arnel, a recording grad, is returning to MacEwan to complete a major in composition. Scott is in his first year of the drumming program.

Sarah Pocklington, Music – Sarah is a member of the contemporary Aboriginal women’s trio Asani. Their debut CD Rattle and Drum (2005) was nominated for 11 music awards throughout North America and received a Canadian Aboriginal Music Award for Best Female Traditional/ Cultural Roots Album. Sarah, Cree Métis, is a MacEwan Music grad (vocals), has a BA in English/Anthropology, a master’s degree in Native Studies and is currently working towards a PhD in Education Policy Studies with a focus on contemporary Aboriginal music. Sarah also teaches in the field of Native Studies. The following is a brief description of the courses available through Grant MacEwan University’s Centre for the Arts and Communications. hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

Arts and Cultural Management – www.MacEwan.ca/artsmanagement Study in the classroom or learn online. Immerse yourself in a two-month field placement where you choose the company and apply the skills you’ve learned while making valuable industry connections. Graduates are employed across the country in positions such as marketing, fundraising, publicity, special event management, facility management and volunteer management. Plans are underway to upgrade the Arts and Cultural Management credential from a certificate to a diploma. Please check online for further updates.

Design Studies –

Music – www.MacEwan.ca/music Before you make an impact on the Canadian music industry, you need to obtain the right tools. MacEwan Music can help you focus on rock, pop and jazz. You’ll develop a flexible range of skills, engage in multiple live performances and immerse yourself in a rich, creative world. While continuing to offer its acclaimed twoyear diploma program, beginning in September 2011 MacEwan Music will also offer a four-year Bachelor of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Popular Music academic degree.

MacEwan City Centre Campus is a short bus ride away and hosts a student residence as well as the Aboriginal Education Centre, which offers a diverse range of services including academic counselling, personal support services, Aboriginal Students Club and cultural programming. Cultural activities include an annual feast, Aboriginal Cultural Day and an Elders-in-Residence program. Aboriginal Elders are invited throughout the year to share their knowledge and traditions through workshops and special sessions. The Centre is a unique community environment where students gather, study and learn. All are welcome.

Professional Writing –

Grant MacEwan University Centre for the Arts and Communications 10045 – 156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5P 2P7 www.MacEwan.ca/creativity • 780.497.4340

www.MacEwan.ca/designstudies If you’re inspired by the rich visual texture of the world around you and want to turn your inspiration into a career, Design Studies is for you. An eight-month Design Foundations Certificate opens the door to a two-year Design Studies diploma in a variety of subject areas such as exhibit design, print design, motion graphics, video and photography.

www.MacEwan.ca/prow If you’re an aspiring writer or editor, let us help you establish a career wielding the power of words. Inform, influence and inspire others with your writing. Acquire the breadth and depth of skills to work in a range of environments, both print and online. A plan to offer students a four-year Bachelor of Communication Studies (BCS) degree is currently underway. Please check online for updates.

Fine Art – www.MacEwan.ca/fineart

Theatre Arts –

Start your degree with the MacEwan Fine Art program. Art is about personal expression. It is about how you stake out your place in a visually complex world. After two years at MacEwan, you will be ready to start an exciting career as an artist, or transfer to some of the best art schools in the country to complete your degree. Courses include sculpture, painting, design fundamentals, installation, art history, digital video production, photography and more!

Journalism – www.MacEwan.ca/journalism If you’re a critical thinker who is curious, persistent and creative, explore the excitement of the world of journalism. Develop your sharp writing and reporting skills today to become the journalist of tomorrow. Get the edge to produce news that counts.

www.MacEwan.ca/theatrearts Explore the boundaries of your own creative potential as you prepare for professional acting opportunities. Learn by doing – perform in main stage and theatre lab shows. In two years, our fulltime commitment to your training encompasses the three disciplines of singing, acting and dancing in a stimulating environment.

Theatre Production – www.MacEwan.ca/production Students in the Theatre Production program share a passion for the performing arts and aren’t afraid of hard work. MacEwan’s Theatre Production program is a two-year full-time program where you’ll use a variety of materials to create some of the most astounding sets, props, costumes, lighting and sound effects you can imagine. Hands-on training delivers an exceptional blend of marketable skills.

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

By Dene Skylar, originally published in The Aboriginal Miner & The Prospector Exploration and Investment News, June 2010

valon Rare Metals Inc. (TSX:AVL, OTCQX:AVARF) is a Canadian mining exploration company that holds one of the largest rare-earth-element (REE) deposits in the world. Avalon’s Nechalacho Project located in the heart of Dene traditional territory east of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories holds an estimated Inferred mineral resource of 60 million tonnes of rare-earth-oxides grading at 1.96% TREO and an additional Indicated resource of 9 million tones of 1.86% TREO with both light and heavy REEs. But the deposit is located in unsettled Dene traditional territory, with access to limited infrastructure and facing a regulatory process that has been criticized as being slow, costly, cumbersome, complex and an industry unto itself. Despite this, the deposit has gained international attention because of its size and the growing demand for REEs.

VP Exploration, Mr. Bill Mercer: The two most fundamental ways are: one, we go to the community and usually meet with the Chief, Council, elders and any appropriate committee they have like an Environmental Committee and we give them an updated presentation and keep open for questions. Sometimes I have gone into the schools to talk to youth about geology, mining and jobs. As a Chief once put it to me, ‘Give them ideas about other opportunities that might spark an interest in them and let them know there are other opportunities.” The second way is to take people out on site visits to do a tour of 3-5 hours so they can see first hand what the operation is like.”

The impressively skilled and down to earth Avalon management team seems to understand the complexities they are faced with and they have a straight forward collaborative approach to develop relationships that they hope will assist them in advancing their mineral project towards production by 2013. Avalon was recently honoured by the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) with the prestigious 2010 Environmental & Social Responsibility Award in recognition of the Company’s community engagement efforts during the exploration of its Nechalacho rare elements deposit at Thor Lake, Northwest Territories. The Prospector sat down with Avalon’s David Swisher, VP of Operations and Bill Mercer, VP of Exploration at a Rare Earth Workshop in the Yellowknives’ Dene community of Dettah, Northwest Territories recently to discuss the award and find out what the company has done to receive such an honour.

VP Exploration, Bill Mercer: “Number one is you have to build trust and respect and the only way to do that is to build a relationship with them. You have to have patience.”

The Prospector: In your experience what are some of the key elements to creating cooperative working relationships with First Nations?

VP. Operations, David Swisher added, “You have to be honest and transparent in your communications and look for a win-win. When the community sees you doing things like providing training opportunities to their community members and jobs, it speaks directly to them.”

The Prospector: Avalon received the award for being a leader in promoting responsible exploration practices, emphasizing early engagement and open communications with communities around Thor Lake. What type of skills training and employment opportunities does Avalon encourage or sponsor? VP Exploration, Bill Mercer: “We worked with the Mine Training Society of the NWT to put three of our First Nations employees from Fort Resolution, NWT through a First Aid Provider course. We told them if they took the course and passed it we would provide them with a salary raise. All three passed and got their raises. We also worked in collaboration with the Mine Training Society of the NWT, two drill companies, a helicopter company, the Deton Cho Corporation and Aurora College to offer a 10 week Common Core Drilling Training Program in the NWT. It was offered to 11 participants. They passed and we hired two but later we hired four to work on our drill program.”

Bill Mercer, Chief Roy Fabien, Chief Edward Sangris, David Swisher

The Prospector: How do you engage in communications with First Nations communities? hopeforthefuture.ca

LEADERSHIP in Waste Management Products and Services

HAZCO ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LTD.

Since 1989, HAZCO Environmental Services Ltd. has provided business and industry with timely, effective, environmentally responsible products and services to meet waste management needs. With a strong combination of environmental expertise and hands-on experience in earth works, construction and transportation, HAZCO provides cost-effective solutions to environmental and waste management problems. With our corporate office in Calgary, Alberta, and operations offices in each of the four western provinces, we are located to effectively service client needs.

www.hazco.com 1-800-667-0444

Gallery of the Midnight Sun In the heart of Yellowknife’s Oldtown

Inuit and Dene art • Northern Apparel and outerwear Northern gifts and souvenirs Diamond polishing demonstrations • Insurance appraisals

867-873-8064

5005 Bryston Drive, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2A3 Fax: 867-873-8065 • www.galleymidnightsun.com Monday to Saturday 10:00-6:00 • Sunday 12:00-5:00 NWT Polar Bear Diamonds and Cubs

first nations resource magazine

Remorquage Mécanique générale Alignement électronique

581, 3e Rue Chibougamou Québec G8P 1N8 Tél.: 418-748-4841 Fax: 418-748-3040

Meanwhile, First Nations within the impact area of the Thor Lake deposit are watching and demanding responsible development that involves them as meaningful participants and beneficiaries of the development happening on their traditional territory. Chief Roy Fabien of the Katlodeechee (Hay River) First Nations has been working hard for the past 30 plus years to extract benefits from his people’s traditional territory for his community. He watched in the past as Pine Point Mines extracted lead and zinc off his traditional lands with minimal benefits accrued to his people. His community is located within the impact area of the Thor Lake deposit. Chief Fabien is also in a long drawn out negotiation process with the Federal government to settle unresolved land, resource and governance issues but Chief Fabien speaks not about stopping or road blocking…he speaks with conviction when he states, “We have sat back and watched but that is not going to happen any more, we are going to be directly involved.” Chief Fabien also praised Avalon for their relationship building work with First Nations by saying, “I really like what Avalon is doing. They are stepping out of the box and building relationships with First Nations…I hope people follow Avalon’s good steps.”

PDAC has definitely recognized the good work Avalon is doing and it is encouraging to see First Nations leaders also stepping up to the plate to get in the game instead of watching from the outside. Canada was built on the spirit of cooperative efforts and as more mining companies and First Nations embrace in the spirit of trust, cooperation and action, mutual benefits will likely fuel and even stronger and more productive relationship. Congratulations to Avalon for stepping out of the pit!

Wemindji Paving Inc. pavages Wemindji Inc.

Siège social

16, Beaver Road, P.O. Box 60, Wemindji (Québec) J0m 1L0

Adresse de facturation :

C.P. 370, 1705, Route de l’aéroport, Amos (Québec) J9T 3A7

Tel.: (819) 978-0264 • Fax: (819) 978-0258

G.D.’s Garage Autobody & Mechanic

RR#2 3250 West Arthur Street Thunder Bay, ON P7C 4V1

807-475-7474

Fax: 807-475-7200

www.bentonresources.ca

Tel.: (450) 632-9891 Fax: (450) 635-6050 Glen Delaronde Autobody & Mechanical Shop P.O. Box 298, Hwy 132, Kahnawake J0L 1B0

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

he rest of Canada may be aging, but our Aboriginal population is young, growing, and a valuable component of Canada’s future work force strategy. Studies, however, show that Aboriginal youth are lagging behind in math and sciences, making it difficult for them to take on the many roles that will be required of them in the future – particularly in critical sectors such as mining, forestry, oil and gas, water and developing aboriginal community infrastructure. A new program offered through Queen’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science is working to change that trend by providing Aboriginal students and their teachers with the tools and techniques they need to succeed as engineering professionals in the future. The Aboriginal Access to Engineering Program developed by Queen’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science takes a multi-faceted approach to increasing the participation of the Aboriginal community in engineering. Along with specific educational programs and an interactive website, the program includes outreach activities and materials created specifically for Aboriginal students by members of the Aboriginal, educational, engineering, Currently, there are science and business communities, along with support such as tutoring, counseling approximately 150 people of and financial aid for aboriginal students Aboriginal descent working entering engineering programs.

[

among the country’s 165,000

The program is helping to encourage practicing professional greater participation in math and science, and to address a vital need for engineers in Canada. increased participation of Aboriginal people in engineering, says Kim Woodhouse, Dean of Engineering and Applied Science at Queen’s University. “As Aboriginal groups in Canada take control of and manage their natural resources and build foundations for future economic development, they will need more skilled professionals in many critical sectors. Right now, there’s a huge gap between need and reality.” Currently, there are approximately 150 people of Aboriginal descent working among the country’s 165,000 practicing professional engineers in Canada.

]

Educational programs for Aboriginal success Queen’s has a tradition of providing access to educational programs for aboriginals – its School of Policy Studies, for example, established Canada’s first Master’s in Public Administration with an Indigenous Policy and Governance stream. The School, in collaboration with the First Nations Technical institute, graduated its first four aboriginal MPA students in the summer of 2010 – professionals who are now using their knowledge to benefit aboriginal communities. “The development of policy leaders and senior administrators is essential to the capacity building and self determination of First Nations, both for today and for future generations,” says Vic Pakalnis, P.Eng., mining professor and AAEP Advisory Circle member. “Queen’s is initiating what we hope will become a national effort to increase the number of aboriginal students who will become these leaders.” hopeforthefuture.ca

Tantalum

Mining Corporation of Canada Limited P.O. Box 2000, Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba R0E 1A0

204.884.2400

EABAMETOONG FIRST NATION

FVB Energy Inc.

Fort Hope Indian Reserve No. 64

350-13220 Saint Albert Trail NW Edmonton, AB T5L 4W1

P.O. Box 298, Eabamet Lake, Ontario P0T 1L0

780-453-3410 W C W

Hélicoptèrs Whapchiwem Limitée

McDONALD FUELS A Division of 698185 Ontario INC.

Whapchiwem Helicopters Limited C.P. 699, Radisson (Québec) J0Y 2X0 Tel.: (819) 638-7904 fax: (819) 638-7424

Tel: 807-242-7221

first nations resource magazine

Marketers of Petroleum Products

628-3677 • 628-3173 P.O. Box 390, Eganville, Ontario K0J 1T0

Along with new educational programs, support and outreach activities, Queen’s also hosts First Nations Conferences. The first, held in 2008, focused on reconciliation processes, and the second, held in 2009, focused on mineral resources and aboriginal lands. The next conference, to be held in June 2011, will concentrate on education and labour markets in the resource sector, and will feature Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo as a keynote speaker. Technology bridges the gap Online strategies provide a vital link for students who may be removed from other resources. The program’s website, www.nativeaccess.com, offers a wide range of activities and “Many students – materials for students and teachers in both Native or not – can be urban and rural settings. The core of the program stems from the Native Access to intimidated by math Engineering Program (NAEP), an awardand science,” he says. winning, web-based outreach program offering electronic and printed educational “We need to provide resources in math and science. It was the resources to help donated to the university by Corinne them get past that Mount Pleasant-Jette, a retired professor and member of the Tuscarora First Nation initial hurdle.” from the Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve near Brantford, Ontario. Professor Mount Pleasant – Jette, who is also a member of the program’s Circle of Advisors, is well-known for her efforts to encourage Aboriginal children to purse higher education.

Manitoba through its collaboration with the University of Manitoba’s Engineering Access Program (ENGAP). An E-Learning community reaches over 600 education administrators and teachers across all provinces and territories who work with Aboriginal students. Queen’s Engineering and Applied Science is also partnering with various groups both on campus and off, including the university’s Four Directions Aboriginal Student Centre, Aboriginal Council and Native Student Association, as well as the School of Policy Studies, the University of Manitoba and Engineers Canada. Many of these partners are incorporating AAEP materials and information into their recruitment and outreach activities throughout the year.

[

]

At www.nativeaccess.com, teachers can download worksheets and guides to integrate into curriculum requirements - a valuable resource for all teachers but particularly for those who have little experience with Aboriginal culture or are working in rural settings without access to colleagues or materials. For students, the website offers a bridge to information, activities and guidance about future careers. Elementary students can play games and learn about engineers by visiting “The Bear ‘Paw’ Trail”, while older students learn about various programs, admission requirements and Aboriginal support available at universities across Canada. A Role Models section includes profiles of Aboriginal Engineers, as well as the interactive “Day in the Life of an Engineer”, a multi-media presentation that demonstrates the varied roles that engineers play in today’s world. Dean Woodhouse notes that while students may have an interest in a specific field of engineering, they don’t always have the resources or community mentors to learn more about education and career opportunities. “The website acts in many ways like a virtual guidance counselor,” she says. “It provides advice and resources 24 hours a day for students who may not have someone in their community to fulfill that role.” Outreach activities Along with online resources, the program participates in a number of outreach activities, such as recruitment fairs, workshops and conferences. During the summer of 2010, more than 10,000 workbooks funded by the Ministry of Training, Colleges & Universities and the Ontario Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs were printed for distribution to Aboriginal children in Ontario and

Aboriginal Circle of Advisors The program is guided by an Aboriginal Circle of Advisors, composed of Queen’s and Aboriginal professionals. Along with Professor Mount Pleasant-Jette, Dean Woodhouse and Professor Pakalnis, the Committee includes Merv Dewasha, a leader in the development of native human resources through career building in science and Engineering, Carol Ann Budd, an engineer and past president of the Canadian Aboriginal Science and Technology Society, and Mark Green, a Professor in Civil Engineering at Queen’s, and former co-chair of Queen’s Aboriginal Council and the First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI). Green, a member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, says that he understands first-hand the challenges that Aboriginal students face. He was lucky to have engineers in his family to encourage him through his studies, but also remembers the struggles of the generation that came before him. He also believes that some of those academic challenges continue to exist in the secondary education system. “Many students – Native or not – can be intimidated by math and science,” he says. “We need to provide the resources to help them get past that initial hurdle.” He believes that by teaching young Aboriginals to use technology, they can break the cycle by using it to benefit their community. “In a technological society, we need Aboriginal people who understand how technology fits in with or affects traditional life,” he says. “People with a knowledge of science and engineering have a valuable contribution to make in bringing that knowledge back to their communities.” Learn more about the Queen’s Aboriginal Access to Engineering program: engineering.queensu.ca/aboriginal

hopeforthefuture.ca

Council of the Cree Nation of Mistissini Conseil de la Nation Crie de Mistissini 187 Main, Mistissini Lake, QuĂŠbec, G0W 1C0

Tel.: (418) 923-3461 Fax: (418) 923-3115

first nations resource magazine

reland’s weather in February can leave a lot to be desired, but Trevor Moyah isn’t worried about the cold and rain. As an Albertan, he’s experienced his share of inclement weather. What his trip to Ireland has Moyah worried about is leaving his 19-month-old son behind for almost two weeks. “My wife is coming with me so we’re a little nervous to leave him. But he’s staying with good friends, so that helps.”

Homeless and troubled by addiction problems, he was well on the road to selfdestruction by his early 20s.

Moyah is one of 17 students from Grant MacEwan University’s Bachelor of Child and Youth Care program participating in an inaugural travel experience to Ireland. Program chair Donna Jamieson doesn’t even try to contain her excitement about the project. “This is a first for us, and it’s a very new and exciting opportunity for our students.” These third- and fourth-year students are heading to the Emerald Isle for 10 days to explore the ways in which child and youth care is approached in a country recognized for its philosophies and social practice. “Child and youth care is really well-recognized in Ireland, maybe even more so than in Canada,” explains Jamieson. “This experience will give our students an understanding of the culture, approach and techniques being practiced in child and youth care from a different perspective.” It’s this different perspective Moyah is excited to explore. As a third-year student in MacEwan’s Bachelor of Child and Youth Care program, he has a life purpose that goes beyond graduating with his undergraduate degree, and a life experience that goes beyond that of the average mature student.

was well on the road to self-destruction by his early 20s. Looking back at that part of his life he is certain about one thing: “I know of friends from the street who have since passed, and I know if I had not changed my path, I’d either be in jail or dead right now.” For Moyah, changing his life path came through a returned missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who gave him a copy of the Book of Mormon. He was reminded of conversations with a friend years before who was a less-active member of the church. They had discussed their beliefs and he remembered how it seemed his viewpoints had aligned with hers. So when he was given the book, he started to read it. And by the time he reached the end, he’d turned his life around. “I realized I was wasting my life, so I just started moving my life forward.” With the help from supportive family members and his church, Moyah found his purpose. “I saw a lot of youth on the street with addictions. I was trying to fill my void with drugs, and people on the street need to find what they’re missing,” he explains. “One of the best things I could do for my people was to help our children.” So Moyah chose to take the Mental Health diploma at Grant MacEwan University. During the program, he chose a treatment centre as one of his field placement options, an experience that solidified his desire to work with youth and addictions.

From Frog Lake First Nation and born and raised in Edmonton, Moyah fell into a life resembling that of many of the youth he works with today at an Edmonton group home. Homeless and troubled by addiction problems, he

hopeforthefuture.ca

Chief Geologist - Youcef Larbi 16 Beaver Road, Box 210 Wemindji, Quebec, Canada J0M 1L0

Tel.: (819) 978-0264 #327 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: (819) 978-3493 e-mail: youceflarbi@creenet.com www.cmeb.org

first nations resource magazine

After completing his diploma, Moyah decided he wanted to further his education, and once again chose MacEwan as the place to do that. “It’s a great school, I love it,” he smiles. “Their (Bachelor of ) Child and Youth Care program offered exactly what I was looking for, and there are so many things you can do with this degree.” After taking a few bridging courses, he transferred into the third year of the degree program in January 2011, and will graduate with his Bachelor of Child and Youth Care in 2012. But he doesn’t plan on stopping there. He’s already looking into pursuing his Masters in either psychology or counselling psychology. In the meantime, he’s looking forward to his experience in Ireland. While overseas, Moyah and his fellow students, about half of his class, will learn about Ireland’s culture and social care programs. They will visit various agencies in Dublin to explore how the social care of children and youth is approached; they will visit the Peace Wall in Belfast; they will get to experience the natural wonder of the Giant’s Causeway; and in Athlone they will be paired up with social studies/social care students at the Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT), where they will attend classes to experience the learning environment and techniques taught. “Our students have already been partnered-up with AIT students and have been in contact with each other through Facebook, as well as a blog they’ve set up,” says Jamieson. MacEwan students will prepare a presentation for their colleagues at AIT, and will also prepare a presentation about the Ireland trip for their fellow students upon their return. With plans of hosting students from AIT this fall, Jamieson is optimistic the February trip will result in an ongoing student exchange, and hopefully even something bigger. “We’re hoping this will develop into not only the exchange for students, but an opportunity for joint scholarly writing and research, and even an instructor exchange. Ideally, we’d like to see it grow into an institutional partnership between MacEwan and AIT.”

Trevor Moyah

Just as these two educational institutions are excited to map out their future of sharing and learning, Trevor Moyah is determined to map out his own. Wise beyond his years and with a purpose understandably close to his heart, he is committed to making a difference, one that he believes begins with caring for children and youth. “When we heal our youth, we heal ourselves.” As of publication, Trevor Moyah and his fellow MacEwan students have returned from Ireland.

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

“Then one day, I was talking to some people in their thirties and forties and they’d never set foot outside those few city blocks in Vancouver. I couldn’t comprehend a life like that. I didn’t want the street life.”

Terry Ball was crossing a downtown Vancouver street a couple of years ago, carrying a laptop bag like so many other business people, when the irony hit him square in the face. “It wasn’t that long ago that I was living on those streets and here I was taking a course to help me smoothly transition to management,” he recalls, emphasized by his distinctive chuckle. It’s been three years since Terry was promoted to Earthworks Supervisor at Galore Creek Mining Corporation (GCMC). But for this high-school dropout, it’s been a long journey and Terry hopes sharing his story will have a positive impression with today’s youth. “I want to be a better example to young people than I had so they don’t take the road I did. I want them to learn from my mistakes.” A bit of a lost soul with little direction or mentoring, Terry’s dreams of attending officer college and flying F16s or becoming a police officer were shattered when he fell in with the wrong crowd and made some poor choices. He quit high school in Grade 11 and ran away from his home in Smithers, BC. After spending some time in Prince George, he eventually found himself on the streets of Vancouver. “Then one day, I was talking to some people in their thirties and forties and they’d never set foot outside those few city blocks in Vancouver. I couldn’t comprehend a life like that. I didn’t want the street life.” hopeforthefuture.ca

JVD

Charlebois We Specialize in

Plumbing & Heating • Cryogenic System • Misc. Metal Fabrication Semi Conductor Lab • Pharmaceutical Lab • Orbital Welding

613-749-7031

Fax: 613-749-4470 Our goal is to Keep Customers Happy

5489 Canotek Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1J 9G7

National Money Mart Company

Greenstone

Economic Development Corporation Community Economic Development Initiative 1409 Main Street, P.O. Box 1018, Geraldton, ON P0T 1M0 Tel.: 807.854.2273 • Fax: 807.854.2474 62

first nations resource magazine

www.moneymart.ca

Terry made his way to Lower Post, BC, a community approximately 23 kms southeast of Watson Lake, Yukon, where his grandma lived. While starting fresh may sound easy, it rarely is, but Terry prevailed and eventually went from pounding nails and running a chain saw to helping build a reserve near Pemberton, BC. He got his Grade 12 equivalent at 19 and his third year apprenticeship in carpentry. After several years as an underground miner at Eskay Creek, Terry was hired through the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation to work at Galore Creek. Full-time employment with GCMC soon followed. The Galore Creek copper-gold-silver project is owned equally by NovaGold Resources Inc. and Teck Resources Ltd. and managed by GCMC. The project is located in northwest BC within Tahltan Traditional Territory and near the communities of Dease Lake, Iskut and Telegraph Creek. GCMC currently holds 118,900 hectares of mineral claims. At the adjoining Copper Canyon property, NovaGold and Copper Canyon Resources have a joint venture that holds 12 claims totaling 11,340 hectares. The Galore Creek project is moving through pre-feasibility based on an optimized mine design, with results expected in the first half of 2011. A crew has been working at Galore Creek since 2007, establishing road access and completing the engineering and environmental studies required for the pre-feasibility study. “The camp manager met me at the heli-pad and asked if I knew how to build a bridge. I told him, ‘Nope but I burned quite a few, so I know what they look like’.” During the early days, Terry was the guy that was dropped in by helicopter with his excavator to clear a spot so larger equipment could be brought in to establish camp. A hard worker, Terry settled in and met all challenges both personally and professionally. His quick wit and spryness also serve him well, endearing him to colleagues and managers. As clichéd as it may sound, he credits hard work and determination for his success. “I phoned my honey one night and said, ‘You know what they are trying to do to me? Make me a surpervisor’,” recalls this father of four. “She just laughed and said it was time to put myself in those shoes.”

Terry, who has been called a ‘great critical thinker,’ is involved with the Tahltan Heritage Resources Environmental Assessment Team (THREAT) and GCMC’s Environmental Performance Committee. As well, he’s a board member with the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation. “I’m lucky someone saw something in me that I never knew existed. They realized I could be a lot more than what I was doing.”

Mining a solid career Terry is just one example of the long-lasting benefits associated with a career in mining. There are tremendous opportunities within the industry in all aspects of exploration, development, operations and site reclamation. With more than 120 different mining occupations to choose from, today’s youth have a variety of options, including a career as a surveyor, haul-truck driver, geologist, environmental technician and engineer, among many others. As well, the Canadian mining industry is expected to hire 100,000 new workers by 2020, according to the Mining Industry Human Resource Council.

1-412 Thickwood Blvd Fort McMurray, AB T9K 1P1

780.791.4040

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

One of the highest paying industrial sectors in Canada, the mining industry offers very competitive salaries. The average weekly earnings in the metal mining industry was $1200 in 2007, which is 30 percent higher than the salaries of workers in construction, 29 percent higher than manufacturing and 24 percent higher than forestry. In addition to financial benefits, mining careers are challenging, offer unique opportunities to travel and, as Terry’s story demonstrates, encourage advancement for eager employees. Most companies also give preference hiring to local communities. “NovaGold has a long-time policy of hiring locally as much as possible,” explains Sacha Iley, NovaGold’s VP Human Resources. “We establish training programs to develop a skilled pool of employees in the local communities. This provides long-term sustainable benefits to the community and its members.”

Feeding an entrepreneurial spirit

increasing from there if project profit increases. In addition, GCMC contributes $15,000 annually to educational bursaries for Tahltan members and also sponsors individual Tahltan initiatives and community events. “Mining projects offer a significant economic driver that breathes new life into communities, providing opportunities for employment, training and advancement, and service businesses during project development, operations and closure,” says NovaGold President and CEO Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse. “Recognizing that for development to occur we must always balance economic benefits with environmental and social protection, NovaGold engages local communities from day one to solicit feedback and gain an understanding of their long-term objectives.” GCMC prioritizes employment and contract opportunities for Tahltan members and businesses, with approximately 65% Tahltan employment at the project today and approximately 75% of contracts with Tahltan businesses and joint ventures.

As the Galore Creek project progresses, it will create hundreds of direct jobs and thousands of others in industries that support miners and mining. In early meetings with Tahltan leaders, for example, NovaGold agreed to support the formation of several joint ventures, one of which was Rescan Tahltan Environmental Consultants (RTEC), a 50/50 joint venture between Rescan Environmental Services Ltd. and the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC). RTEC combined the environmental expertise of Rescan with the regional savvy of the TNDC and has been extensively involved with environmental work at the project. NovaGold’s commitment to ensure the sustainability of the communities associated with the Galore Creek project was galvanized by the NovaGold–Tahltan Participation Agreement, which was subsequently adopted by GCMC when NovaGold and Teck partnered to develop the project in 2007. The Participation Agreement, which was ratified by the Tahltan Nation with a nation-wide vote and signed on February 10, 2006, was heralded as a ground-breaking agreement in the Canadian mining industry for providing real benefits and collaboration opportunities for the Tahltan Nation. The Participation Agreement defines the working relationship at Galore Creek and outlines the best opportunities for Tahltan individuals and businesses to benefit from the project. The agreement provides financial and other support to the Tahltan Heritage Trust Fund, which is managed by the Tahltan Central Council to support its priorities. Contributions to the Trust Fund are currently $250,000 annually, increasing to a minimum of $1 million annually during operations and hopeforthefuture.ca

Our staff of 20 professionals provides complete “one-stop” consulting services for: Building Condition Studies • Facility Needs Studies • Casinos • Health Clinics • Churches • Ice Arenas, Riding Arenas Curling Rinks, Pools • Motels & Restaurants • Elders Lodges • Multi-purpose Buildings

“SERVICE EXCELLENCE SINCE 1978” Ph: (403) 343-6858 • Fax: (403) 343-2122

1, 4646 Riverside Drive, Red Deer, AB, T4N 6Y5 • E-mail: mail @ bearden.ca • Website: www.bearden.ca

The Dryden Municipal Telephone System is a full-service public utility telephone company owned by the City of Dryden. Our mandate is to provide efficient and effective, state-of-the-art, nationally connected telecommunications services to our subscribers while maintaining the financial and technical integrity of the system. Profits made by the company are used to keep the company current with new technologies and to reduce the tax burden on the residents of the City of Dryden. We provide: 1. Telephone service to the residents and businesses located in West Dryden, i.e., the portion of the City of Dryden that was the Town of Dryden before the amalgamation of the Town of Dryden and the Township of Barclay into the City of Dryden, 2. Cellular, Mobile Radio and Paging Services to all residents of the general area, and Sales and Leasing of Globalstar Satellite Telephones 3. Internet Service to the general area, with High Speed DSL in Dryden, and Dial-up Service in and around our city, as well as High Speed Wireless Internet from Vermilion Bay west of Dryden to Wabigoon to the east on Northwestern Ontario's largest Wireless Internet Network. Our Business Offices and Retail Telephone Store is located in the City Hall, at 30 Van Horne Avenue, and we are open from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays). We can be reached by fax at 223-1109 and by phone as follows: -

General telephone and Internet service inquiries : 223-1100 Cellular and Mobility inquiries : 221-1000 Connections, disconnections and billing inquires : 223-1111 Trouble reports for Dial-up, DSL, and Wireless Internet : 221-2100 Directory Advertising : 223-1115

www.DTMS.biz

Hwy 20 North, Humboldt, SK S0K 2A0

306-682-5617 66

first nations resource magazine

Bob’s

Welding (1993) Ltd. 7 Industrial Road, Inuvik NT, X0E 0T0

(867) 777-4174

P.O. Box 272, Selkirk, Manitoba R1A 2B2

Sewer and Water Contractor Selkirk Line (204) 482-5031

Winnipeg Line (204) 475-8782

Fax Line (204) 482-9166 • Email: buus@mb.sympatico.ca

Rainy River

District School Board 522 Second Street East, Ontario P9A 1N4

Michael Lewis • Chair Heather Campbell • Director Highway 9 and York Road Yorkton, Saskatchewan S3N 2V6 Redi-Mix • Aggregates • Paving Stones Decorative Pre-cast Brick & Masonry Products Holding & Septic Tanks and Pipe

306.782.2264 “Quality First To Last”

(807) 274-9855 Empowering all students to dream of the possibilities, to believe in themselves and to achieve.

Charles Bell Real Estate Appraisals Ltd. 130 Paris St., Sudbury, Ontario P3A 1X5

Business 705-671-2355 • Fax: 1-888-520-6892 A Firm with over 40 years Appraisals Experience in: Native Land Issues • Land Claims • Land Leases Duncan Bell, H.B. Comm, AACI, P. App. E-mail: dbell@bellappraisals.ca

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

Goldsource Mines Inc (TSX.V: GXS) is a resource company engaged in the exploration and development of Canada’s newest coalfield in the province of Saskatchewan. Following the landmark discovery of coal deposits in 2008 and extensive drilling on this new thermal coalfield, the Border Coal Project has an estimated 173 million tonnes of coals in all categories as reported in the latest Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) announced in February 2011. Marston, EBA and other independent qualified representatives conclude that, based upon this PEA, development of the Border Coal project has the potential to be technically and economically feasible. The following recommendations are provided for consideration to advance the project to a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) level: • Consider coal liquefaction (CTL) processes which are based on standard petroleum refinery technologies and taking advantage of the current and expected low price for natural gas to provide the hydrogen to convert coal to liquids, in particular high value transportation fuels. • Complete bulk sampling of 5-10 tonnes to test CTL technologies, to develop or refine plant design, produce an updated product slate and product yield estimates and update the capital and operating cost estimates. • A rigorous marketing study is recommended to determine the impact of bringing these products, in the projected quantities, to the marketplace. • Due to the high capital cost associated with supplying natural gas to the site for CTL processing, a potential option would be to locate the processing facilities closer to the Province’s main natural gas transmission and other product pipelines in southern Saskatchewan. This may provide an economic benefit on the cost side as well as possibly providing easier access to the market for the finished products.

• There are several potential technologies that could be used to monetize the Border resource, such as the Quantex Energy Inc. (Quantex) of Calgary, AB, CTL processing or the Synthesis Energy Systems (“SES”) gasification processing. It is recommended that Goldsource pursue these options in conjunction with further resource development. Capital and operating costs for the Quantex CTL process may be significantly lower than other processes, however, these processes requires further testing before being demonstrated as a proven commercial technology. • Electrical on-site power generation was initially considered, however, the Border coals contain moderate to high amounts of sodium which causes problems (fouling) with coal-fired generators. Reduction in sodium may be possible with further test work. Onsite power generation is still considered an alternative for energy production. The PA recommends using of part of the bulk sample to carry testwork for sodium and sulphur reduction. • Carry out proposed additional work on Border Coal Project to: a. collect a cumulative 5-10 tonne coal bulk sample from Pasquia 2, Chemong 3 and Niska 107 by way of large diameter drilling, b. do coal to liquids laboratory test work and sodium and sulphur reduction testing, c. drill to convert Speculative resources to Indicated for several of the Border deposits and, d. drill several new exploration targets including the Pasquia 98 basin and Red Deer basin for potential increased resources. Significant potential exists for additional coal resources which can possibly increase mine life and decrease capital and operating costs. • Compile the results of this bulk sample program and previous work into a PFS to be targeted for completion in 2012 and continue collecting environmental baseline data during 2011. hopeforthefuture.ca

408C Otter Bay, Springbank Airport Calgary, Alberta T3Z 3S6 Prairie Aircraft specializes in Cessna Caravans, new or used. We also deal in Singles, Piston Twins, and all other fixed wing aircraft. We do leasing and appraisals, for all your aircraft needs, Call Prairie Aircraft

The Crees of the

Waskaganish First Nation Public Security Department 70 Waskaganish Street Waskaganish, QC J0M 1R0

819.895.2166

Phone: 306-791-4600 Fax: 306-352-3919 www.prairieaircraft.com prairieaircraft@telus.net

KAMLOOPS TRAVELODGE

430 Columbia Street, Kamloops, BC V2C 2T5

250.372.8202 Fax: 250.372.1459

first nations resource magazine

The estimated cost to complete the exploration and bulk sampling and testing program prior to a pre-feasibility study is US$3 million

Coal to Liquids Project Economic Parameters Marston relied on CTL sources for the capital cost estimates associated with the coal to liquids facility. The total installed cost of the facility has been estimated to be $1.94 billion and was allocated over five years with commencement depending on the rate of advancement of PreFeasibility and Feasibility studies. There would be an additional $90 million dollars of sustaining capital required over the life the project. All capital and operating costs are to a Preliminary Assessment level and were established using quotes, experience, and factored industry standard numbers. Costs are to a +/-30% accuracy as are typical for this level of evaluation. Under the assumptions of the economic model and using a 5% discount rate, the discounted Net Present Value of the project is estimated to be $256 million. Under the assumptions of this Preliminary Assessment, the project will produce approximately 6.45 billion gallons of saleable products at production rates of approximately 14,000 barrels per day. With assumed market prices of $2.25 per gallon for diesel and $2.11 and $1.29 per gallon for naptha and LPG/propane respectively, the estimated annual product revenues average $425 million/year with estimated operating costs of approximately $266 million/ year. Based on the pro-forma development plan, technology for upgrading, and estimated costs of operations, the project generates a positive pre-tax internal rate of return of approximately 6.3% and a payback period of 13 years with a minimum project life of 30 years. Sensitivity analyses show that the project rate of return is much more sensitive to changes in revenue (product prices) than either operating or capital costs.

Border Coal Core

J. Scott Drever, President stated: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are excited by the fact that our preliminary assessment showed a positive rate of return at this stage using an existing commercial process known to have high capital and operating costs. This is a clear indication that by making potential improvements in capital and operating costs, which may be possible through emerging technologies, we should be able to develop a system to monetize the value our coal asset and future energy source. Major capital projects such as this often require a combination of favorable investment climate, timing, commodity pricing and technology changes to demonstrate rates of return commensurate with the capital at risk. We believe that this combination of circumstances is achievable. We intend to pursue the recommendations of the report, in particular those relating to test work for alternative technologies. We recognize that the project requires a special expertise and financial capacity to bring it to fruition and will actively seek out a participant with these capabilities.â&#x20AC;? Goldsource Current Resources:

hopeforthefuture.ca

Pulaarvik Kablu Friendship Centre

P. O. Box 429, Rankin Inlet, Nunavut X0C 0G0

Phone: (867) 645-2600

Fax: (867) 645-2538 â&#x20AC;˘ recept_pkfcmain@qiniq.com

FN 2011.indd 1 72pulaarvik first nations resource magazine

5/6/11 11:46:09 AM

In addition to these wholly owned resources Goldsource Announced a Joint Venture Agreement on 25% of Westcore Energy Ltd.’s Manitoba and Saskatchewan Coal Permits. Pursuant to a letter agreement dated December 10, 2009 by which Goldsource provided Westcore with specific drill sites on its Saskatchewan and Manitoba coal lands. Drilling of theses prime coal targets was successful in intersecting substantial thicknesses of coal and accordingly Goldsource received 1,100,000 shares of Westcore and earned a 25% working interest in certain of Westcore’s Manitoba and Saskatchewan coal permits. Under the terms of JV Agreement, Goldsource has the option to participate as to its 25% in any subsequent coal lands acquired by Westcore. Westcore is also required to spend $3.0 million on exploration of the permits prior to Goldsource contributing its 25% share. Westcore announced on March 30, 2011 the preliminary results of its successful 2011 winter exploration program in which 23 drill holes of a total 39 hole program were drilled on the Black Diamond Property in which Goldsource holds a 25% interest. The program focused on 4 principal targets (Ambit, Cyclops, Athena and Calypso) and 2 satellite deposits (Ambit and Athena). Substantial thickness of coal ranging from 22.1 metres to 75.2 metres were encountered in 11 of the 23 holes in the six deposits drilled (for details please see Westcore’s press release dated March 30, 2011, on its web site at www.westcoreenergy. ca or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com). J. Scott Drever, President stated: “We are certainly pleased that Westcore has been able to conduct such a successful winter campaign. The initial results appear to be similar to the coal thicknesses we have encountered on many of the deposits in our adjacent Border Project where we have intercepts up to 126 meters in true thickness. From the perspective of Goldsource, these results have provided the opportunity to test our geophysical models in areas outside of our Border Property and obviously have greatly enhanced the value of our share position in Westcore as well as the value of our 25% working interest in the Westcore properties.”

hopeforthefuture.ca

Kodiak Energy, Inc.

Suite 1120, 833 - 4th Ave S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2P 3T5 Canada

Telephone: (403) 262-8044 Fax: (403) 513-2670

Investor Relations Email: info@kodiakpetroleum.com Phone: (403) 238-8813 74

first nations resource magazine

First Nations youth represent a growing segment of the Canadian population, which means the new ideas and fresh perspectives First Nations youth bring to the table are key to Canada’s future success. Canada’s future – and the future for all First Nations – looks bright. How bright? It depends on Canada’s ability to provide First Nations youth with the opportunities and learning experiences they need to cultivate a vision for positive change and prepare to be the leaders of tomorrow.

“Imagine being 15, and your friends aren’t working or are starting jobs at a fast food restaurant, and you’re working at a bank!” explains Dickson. “It was

That’s why access to education is so important, something Brian Dickson knows about first hand. “Education is everything,” says the 28-year-old member of Lac Seul First Nation and RBC Royal Bank® Branch Manager in Ancaster, Ontario. In 2005, Dickson graduated from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia with a business degree. He credits the RBC Stay in School summer employment program with shaping his future educational and career choices.

good grounding for my educational path, and ultimately led to the career I have today.” In addition to the RBC Stay in School Program, RBC also offers financial support for First Nations students pursuing post-secondary education through a scholarship program called the RBC Aboriginal Student Awards Program. As a Senior Negotiator for Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC), and a former RBC scholarship winner, Debra Arkwright-Alivisatos credits her career achievements, in part, to the support she received through the RBC Aboriginal Student Awards Program. “The scholarship gave me financial security, lessening the burden of juggling care for my family and completing my studies,” says Arkwright-Alivisatos, who received the award in 1994. As a mature student, wife and mother of a nine-year-old daughter, Arkwright-Alivisatos says the scholarship meant she could leave her full-time job and focus on her studies and her family.

pretty cool.”

“It gave me stability in my studies, it gave me direction,” says Dickson. “I knew as soon as I walked into the bank that it was what I wanted to do.” Dickson applied to the RBC Stay in School Program at age 15 while in high school in Oakville, Ontario. He worked at a branch during the summer months, returning the following year to be a customer service representative. “Imagine being 15, and your friends aren’t working or are starting jobs at a fast food restaurant, and you’re working at a bank!” explains Dickson. “It was pretty cool.” Summer work experience at RBC showed Dickson the value of a good education. He says he realized at an early age that the most important outcome of a good education is meaningful employment. “Participating in the Stay in School Program at RBC was a positive experience for me,” Dickson says. “It gave me a

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine

Before deciding to return to school, Arkwright-Alivisatos, a Mohawk who grew up in Chateauguay, Quebec, led a successful career in the banking industry. She changed career directions when she moved with her family to New Brunswick to become the Executive Director of the Native Friendship Centre in Fredericton. It was her experience at the Friendship Centre that led to her decision to go back to school. “I realized that I needed to develop my skills and further my education,” explains Arkwright- Alivisatos. “A better education would enable me to really make a difference in the enhancement of the lives of Aboriginal people.”

RBC Aboriginal Student Awards Program

The RBC Aboriginal Student Awards Program was launched in 1992 to assist Aboriginal students in completing post-secondary education. Selected students are awarded up to $4,000 each academic year for two to four years to use towards tuition, textbooks, supplies and living expenses. RBC awards 10 scholarships in two categories: • For students majoring in disciplines related to the financial services industry • For students majoring in disciplines unrelated to the financial services industry Scholarship recipients who are interested in careers in financial services are also considered for summer and post-graduate employment at RBC. More information is available at: http://www.rbc.com/careers/aboriginal_student_awards.html

Arkwright-Alivisatos was awarded the scholarship for the final year of her Bachelor of Education degree at a time when the scholarship was limited to applicants pursuing business programs. Although she did not intend to study business, Arkwright-Alivisatos was still motivated to apply for the scholarship despite this restriction: “I wrote in my application that I felt I was qualified for the award because I was studying to be an educator of business subjects in school, realizing that we needed more Aboriginal teachers teaching business,” says Arkwright- Alivisatos. “By selecting me for the award, RBC recognized that the purpose of their scholarship program could be expanded to increase Aboriginal representation in other important fields.” After completing her Bachelor’s Degree, RBC supported Arkwright-Alivisatos in pursuing her Master’s Degree in Adult Education, which she completed at the University of New Brunswick in 1997. While doing her Master’s, she was hired to teach courses at the Mi’kmaq-Maliseet Institute, and continued to work there after graduation before moving on to the federal government and eventually landing her current position with INAC in 2009. To this day Arkwright-Alivisatos believes that the RBC Aboriginal Student Awards Program holds great promise for Aboriginal Students. RBC Stay in School Program

“The RBC Aboriginal Student Awards Program is a great initiative and demonstrates RBC’s serious commitment to the enhancement and success of Aboriginal students,” she says.

Launched in 1993, this summer program helps Aboriginal students between grades 9 and 12 develop the skills and attain the education needed to succeed in the careers of their choice.

Both Dickson and Arkwright-Alivisatos agree that education is the foundation upon which the future success of First Nations youth will be built. Theirs is a view RBC shares and supports.

Hundreds of students have taken part in the RBC Aboriginal Stay in School Program, experiencing the challenges and rewards of the financial services industry from the other side of the counter.

Participants experience at least three weeks’ specialized training as a Client Service Representative at an RBC branch, followed by one week learning about administrative areas within the RBC branch network. Students emerge with a better understanding of the financial industry and the close relationship between education and employment. This program is regionally managed based on local recruiting needs. Some branches also conduct interview skills workshops at Aboriginal high schools and Friendship Centres to help applicants through the recruitment process. In some areas of Canada, a 4-month program is also available to post-secondary students entering their last or second-last year of school.

“We understand the crucial role a good education plays in helping First Nations youth achieve success in life,” says Kirk Dudtschak, Senior Vice President, Strategy and Human Resources at RBC. “Because one of the most important outcomes of a good education is a meaningful job.”

® Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada.

hopeforthefuture.ca

first nations resource magazine