Walking together toward opportunity
The Canada Life Circle of Friends Indigenous Student Mentorship Program
For students navigating post-secondary education, the path to their future is not always clear. An ongoing partnership between Canada Life and RRC Polytech is strengthening connections between Indigenous learners and their careers – setting the stage for a stronger tomorrow.
Through the Canada Life Circle of Friends Indigenous Student Mentorship Program, students are supported to walk that path alongside industry mentors, community leaders, and peers who believe in their potential.
The Canada Life Circle of Friends program is designed to connect Indigenous learners with professionals who offer guidance, encouragement, and real‑world insight. Beyond academic support, the program intentionally connects cultural identity with career development, helping students build confidence, clarify goals, and strengthen their sense of belonging within education and the workplace.
“I got a first-hand look into what a day in my future industry will look like,” reflected one student, while another shared how mentorship reinforced their confidence to thrive in spaces where Indigenous representation remains limited.
RRC Polytech Elder-in-Residence Paul Guimond gave the program the Anishinaabemowin name Ga Ma Moo Ni Di Yot Ma’iingan, or “where the wolves gather,” highlighting the importance of working together toward a shared goal.
“I thought I wouldn’t have much to contribute to meetings with my student because she’s taking a program that is very different from my skillset and background, but we’ve had great discussions about workplace etiquette, personal accountability, and ways to apply culture and traditional Indigenous roles to present day workplace (and lifestyle) scenarios,” shared one mentor.
Between August 2025 and April 2026, the program moved from development into full implementation, supporting two cohorts of students. Across the pilot and Winter 2026 sessions, 26 Indigenous students from seven RRC Polytech programs were matched with 26 mentors representing 15 organizations, including Canada Life and a diverse range of industry and community partners. These mentors contributed their time, lived experience, and professional expertise, demonstrating how collaboration across sectors can open doors.
The impact on students has been profound. Participants shared that mentorship helped demystify workplace culture, strengthen professional skill development, navigate work-life balance and be open to new learning and perspectives.
Equally powerful has been the reciprocal impact on mentors. Many described the experience as meaningful and inspiring – an opportunity to give back, reflect on their own journeys, and walk alongside students as they envision their futures.
Group orientation, check-in sessions, invitation to cultural events hosted by the School of Indigenous Education, as well as a wrap-up celebration, further reinforced trust, connection, and community.
The wrap-up celebration featured a picture station where participants could write a reflection and then hold up their response while having their picture taken. The following is a sample of the reflections and thoughts that were gathered at the event – highlighting the deep value of the partnership for students and mentors:
“I’m grateful for…”
- “The strength of connection, trust, and mutual respect that mentorship makes possible.”
- “Being able to learn from both of my mentors and meeting them on my journey of life.”
- “Participating and meeting new people.”
- “The growth I have learned coming from my mentor.”
- “My mentors who guided me when my immediate family was not able to.”
- “The opportunity to strengthen my connection with Indigenous students and support meaningful change in our community.”
- “Building connection with Indigenous students.”
“I learned…”
- “About power engineering.”
- “That we all have so much to offer when we take the time to learn about each other.”
- “That my voice is necessary to contribute to the changes I want to teach the next generations.”
- “About life in Nunavut.”
This success is rooted in partnership. Canada Life’s leadership and financial support, combined with the dedication of industry mentors and RRC Polytech staff, has laid a strong foundation for sustainability and growth. Together, these partners are advancing equitable access to education, strengthening workforce readiness, and creating pathways that empower Indigenous learners to succeed on their own terms.
Join the Next Cohort
Applications are now being accepted for both students and mentors who would like to participate in the next Circle of Friends cohort, starting in Fall 2026. Indigenous students at RRC Polytech who are curious to learn more about their industry of interest, while enhancing personal and professional development are encouraged to apply.
Mentors who would like to support students on their journey while connecting with the community are also highly encouraged to apply.
To learn more and take the next step, please visit the Circle of Friends webpage or connect with Indigenous Student Supports at RRC Polytech.