Indigenous Education

Events

Join us on Tuesday, January 28 for the Indigenous Career Fair

January 23, 2025

Join us at the Indigenous Career Fair on Tuesday, 12 PM – 3 PM, in the South Gym at Notre Dame Campus.

  • Panel Discussion (12 PM – 12:45 PM): Hear from industry leaders and get inspired.
  • Meet Employers: Connect with 30+ companies from diverse industries.
  • RBC Headshot Lounge: Get a free professional headshot for LinkedIn and beyond.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take the next step in your career! There will be a shuttle available from the Exchange District Campus to Notre Dame Campus outside of Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

Register here for a chance to win awesome prizes! Pick up your passport at the registration table when you check in and enter to win.

Thank you to RBC Future Launch for their generous support of the Indigenous Career Fair.

See below for a list of employers and available job postings.

Animikii Ozoson Child & Family Services

Animikii Ozoson Child & Family Services, founded in 2005, serves children and families with ties to Ontario First Nations living in Winnipeg, Manitoba, as well as others who choose the agency.

Visit Animikii Ozoson Child & Family Services for more information.

Anishinaabe Pimadiziwin Inc.

The Anishinaabe Pimadiziwin Inc. Agency delivers mandated services and programs in a manner which will maintain and strengthen the individual, the family and the First Nations community with the context of aboriginal values and customs.

Visit Anishinaabe Pimadiziwin Inc. for more information

Bison Transport

With a network throughout Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, Bison is a leading asset-based freight solutions provider that employs over 4,000 professional drivers and staff.

Visit Bison Transport for more information

Canada Life

Canada Life is a leading insurance, wealth management and benefits provider focused on improving the financial, physical, and mental well-being of Canadians.

Visit Canada Life for more information.

City of Winnipeg

The City of Winnipeg is a vibrant, growing city with many opportunities! The City of Winnipeg is an organization where you can build a career and make a difference to your community.

Visit City of Winnipeg for more information.

First Nation Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba (FNHSSM)

The First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba (FNHSSM) collaborates with 63 First Nations, 7 tribal councils, and 3 PTOs to promote awareness of health issues and enhance the well-being of individuals and communities.

Visit First Nation Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba (FNHSSM) for more information.

First Nations Financial Management Board

The First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB), one of three institutions established by the FMA, supports First Nations in adopting strong governance and financial practices to achieve their objectives.

Visit First Nations Financial Management Board for more information.

Health Care Retention and Recruitment Office

The Manitoba government established the Health Care Retention and Recruitment Office to attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals from across Manitoba, Canada and internationally.  Our office works to connect you with meaningful career opportunities within Manitoba’s health system and provides support and resources to navigate a simplified, efficient hiring experience. Whether you’re seeking a new role, career growth, or a fresh start in a province known for its welcoming communities and high quality of life, we are here to help.

Visit Health Care Retention and Recruitment Office for more information.

IDFusion Software

IDFusion’s purpose stems from our founders’ proud Métis heritage. As an Indigenous organization our purpose is to be a tool for positive change for Indigenous peoples.

Visit IDFusion Software for more information.

Ka Ni Kanichihk Inc. 

We lead women, men, children, youth, and our two-Spirit community to health and balance through learning and healing programs grounded in traditional Indigenous knowledge and trauma-informed practices.

Visit Ka Ni Kanichihk Inc. for more information.

KPMG Canada

KPMG in Canada is a professional services firm with over 40 locations nationwide, employing more than 10,000 people. They offer a wide range of services, including Audit and Assurance, Tax, Advisory, Law, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) consulting.

Visit KPMG Canada for more information.

Manitoba Blue Cross

We are a homegrown, Manitoba-based health benefits provider with coverage that is among the best in the industry. With the added advantage of a national network, we provide the utmost care for our members living both locally and out of province.

Visit Manitoba Blue Cross for more information.

Manitoba First Nations Police Service

The members of the Manitoba First Nations Police Service proudly serve First Nation communities throughout Manitoba. In doing this, we are guided by our understanding that First Nations communities are unique, and their needs vary from community to community.

Visit Manitoba First Nations Police Service for more information.

Manitoba Hydro

Manitoba Hydro is a Crown corporation that provides electricity and natural gas services across the province of Manitoba. It is committed to delivering reliable and affordable energy, primarily generated through sustainable hydroelectric power.

Visit Manitoba Hydro for more information.

Manitobah

Manitobah is a brand deeply rooted in Indigenous culture, offering authentic, Indigenous-designed products. Committed to giving back, the company ensures its work supports and returns value to Indigenous communities.

Visit Manitobah for more information.

Métis Child, Family and Community Services

Métis Child, Family and Community Services will work to strengthen the capacity of families to care for children through culturally relevant community-based programs. 

Visit Métis Child, Family and Community Services for more information.

Métis Employment & Training – MMF

At MET, we take pride in offering a wide array of client and employer services tailored to meet the unique needs of Red River Métis Citizens, clients, and employers. Whether you’re in need of financial assistance, looking to strategize your career plan, seeking job assistance or are an employer keen on recruiting talented Red River Métis talent, we’ve got you covered!

Visit Métis Employment & Training – MMF for more information.

NETES – Neeginan Education, Training and Employment Services

(formerly CAHRD – Centre for Aboriginal Human Resources Development)

Neeginan Education, Training, and Employment Services is here to help Indigenous people in Winnipeg overcome unemployment and work toward self-sufficiency. We do this by offering education, training, job services, and support programs like counseling, daycare, and housing, along with anything else needed to support this mission.

Visit NETES – Neeginan Education, Training and Employment Services for more information.

RBC

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) is one of the largest and most prominent financial institutions in Canada, offering a broad range of services. These include personal and business banking, wealth management, insurance, and corporate and investment banking, serving clients both locally and internationally.

Visit RBC for more information.

Red River College Polytechnic

RRC Polytech is Manitoba’s largest institute of applied learning and research, with more than 150 full- and part-time degree, diploma and certificate options. Through hands-on and online learning opportunities and state-of-the-art instruction, we prepare our students to become leaders in their fields — while also ensuring they can meet changing industry demands, and contribute to the province’s economic growth.

Visit Red River College Polytechnic for more information.

Richardson International

Richardson International, Canada’s leading agribusiness and worldwide handler of Canadian-grown grains and oilseeds, has grown and evolved over the years, expanding its business to bring quality crops to international markets. Today, it delivers food products and ingredients to kitchens around the world.

Visit Richardson International for more information.

Sagkeeng Child & Family Services

Sagkeeng Child and Family Services is one of 10 agencies in the Southern First Nations Network of Care providing provincially mandated services. We believe that children are our gifts and as a community, it is our responsibility to guarantee their physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs.

Visit Sagkeeng Child & Family Services for more information.

Shawenim Abinoojii Inc.

Shawenim Abinoojii provides community-based services to support the wellbeing of Indigenous children, youth, and families, with a focus on education, wellness, and cultural programs. Their initiatives include youth mentorship, family reunification, and fostering cultural connection to help youth thrive in their communities.

Visit Shawenim Abinoojii Inc. for more information.

Southeast Child & Family Services

Southeast Child and Family Services serves eight First Nations in the southeast region of Manitoba: Brokenhead Ojibway Nation; Black River First Nation; Hollow Water First Nation; Bloodvein First Nation; Berens River First Nation; Poplar River First Nation; Little Grand Rapids First Nation; and, Pauingassi First Nation.

Visit Southeast Child & Family Services for more information.

St. Amant Human Resource Services

St.Amant strives to support people with developmental disabilities to live meaningful lives as valued members of our community. We are committed to human rights and full community inclusion.

Visit St. Amant Human Resource Services for more information.

TD Bank

TD Canada Trust offers a range of personal banking services, including chequing and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and investments. They also provide specialized financial advice and tools to help individuals manage their money, plan for the future, and secure their financial well-being.

Visit TD Bank for more information.

The North West Company

The North West Company is a leading retailer to underserved rural communities and urban neighbourhood markets in the following regions: Northern Canada, Western Canada, rural Alaska, the South Pacific islands and the Caribbean. Our stores offer a broad range of products and services with an emphasis on food.

Visit The North West Company for more information.

ThreeOsix Industrial Services Inc.

Threeosix is a Canadian construction and mining company offering tailored solutions in sectors like energy, infrastructure, and industrial projects. They specialize in construction, civil, structural steel, and mechanical works, ensuring efficient and successful project execution for their clients across Canada.

Visit Threeosix Industrial Services Inc. for more information.

Turning Leaf Support Services Inc.

We are a non-profit, charitable organization that provides person-centered, crisis and treatment services to low and high-risk vulnerable and marginalized individuals living with mental illness and intellectual challenge in our community.

Visit Turning Leaf Support Services Inc. for more information.

Vidir Solutions

Vidir Solutions specializes in automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), offering high-density solutions to optimize space for a wide range of materials like small parts, tires, and medical supplies. Their products, such as vertical carousels and lift modules, help businesses save floor space and improve efficiency by using vertical storage technology.

Visit Vidir Solutions for more information.

Winnipeg Police Service 

The Winnipeg Police Service offers a variety of recruitment opportunities for roles such as police constables, civilian positions, and emergency communications call takers. They provide detailed information about the hiring process, employee benefits, and opportunities for growth within the force.

Visit Winnipeg Police Service for more information.

Winnipeg Regional Health Authority – Indigenous Health

Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Indigenous Health builds capacity within the Winnipeg health region to support the holistic needs of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people.

Visit Winnipeg Regional Health Authority – Indigenous Health for more information.

Wyndham Garden Hotel – Sparrow Hotels

Wyndham Garden Winnipeg Airport is a modern hotel located on the Long Plain First Nation Urban Reserve, offering convenient access to the Winnipeg airport and local attractions. With amenities like a heated pool, restaurant, and Indigenous market, it provides a welcoming space for both business and leisure travelers.

Visit Wyndham Garden Hotel – Sparrow Hotels for more information.

Living Library – Thursday, Feb. 13

January 22, 2025

Living Libraries are experiences that allow people to listen and learn from a person in real time, mimicking the setup of libraries and physical books. Join us for a special edition in honor of Louis Riel Day, featuring captivating Métis storytellers. Immerse yourself in their rich traditions, culture, and history.  

The Living Library format is interactive by nature, involving small-group discussions between a storyteller and participants in a safe and supportive environment. Groups of 5-6 participants will spend 15 minutes with a speaker, rotating through different storytellers.

Register here.

Join us on Thursday, February 13 at NDC 11:30-12:30 in CM27 in the Library.

The Storytellers

Janelle Desrosiers is an AuDHD Michif and French-Canadian Two-Spirit designer and entrepreneur. As an advocate for the intersections of Indigenous resurgence, neurodivergence, mental health, and motherhood, she is also on a journey of decolonization and divesting from sick systems. 

She is also the founder and creative director of Bloom + Brilliance: a queer, Indigenous, and intersectional feminist-led design agency. They build beautiful brands, websites and strategies for Indigenous and intersectional feminist entrepreneurs, community leaders and organizations as they change the world. 

She believes that by channelling their passion, purpose and power, Indigenous and intersectional feminist leaders are uniquely positioned to affect positive change on individual, community and global scales. 

Janelle lives and works at home with her husband, Nyco, and their son and Jude in Treaty 1 Territory.

Indigenous Career Fair – Tuesday, January 28

January 10, 2025

Are you ready to take the next step in your career journey?

Join us at the Indigenous Career Fair, where opportunity meets community. 

  • Connect with employers and explore exciting opportunities in industries online and in-person. 
  • Gain insights from a panel of industry professionals discussing how they’re building equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplaces. 
  • Get a professional-grade headshot for your LinkedIn profile with the RBC Headshot Lounge. 

This is your chance to network, gain valuable advice, and open doors to a future where your talents are celebrated.  

  • Date: Tuesday, January 28 
  • Location: South Gym, Notre Dame Campus 
  • Time: 12 PM – 3 PM 

Thank you to RBC for supporting the Indigenous Career Fair as our Thriving Future Sponsor. Register now for the chance to win: 

  • $500 Ticketmaster gift card  
  • 2 blankets designed by Haida artist James Hart 
  • Wireless phone charger

To be entered to win, check in on the day of the Indigenous Career Fair in the South Gym.

Career Fair Tips

Need some help preparing? We’ve got some tips to help you out! 

What should I wear?

No dress code here—wear what you’d usually wear to class! Keep in mind that the RBC Headshot is available, so wear clothes that you would want to have in professional photos. Think plain t-shirts, long-sleeves, or button-ups with jeans, pants, or skirts. Just remember: first impressions matter when meeting potential employers! 

What should I bring?

Pack your resume and a sense of what job you’re aiming for. Bring 5-10 printed copies to share with employers (campus printers are available if needed). A notepad is also handy for jotting down notes during conversations—pens will be provided at the registration desk! 

Made a connection? Here’s what to do next.

Great job! If you’ve left your resume and had a good chat, follow up within a day or two. Get the employer’s contact info, ideally a direct email. Send a thank-you message or confirm any scheduled interviews. Reference something specific from your conversation to leave a strong impression! 

Questions for Employers 

If you are stuck for some conversation starters, here are some questions that can get the ball rolling and make a strong impression with employers.  

What positions are you hiring for? 

Ask this to see if the role matches your skills and goals. Even if it doesn’t, keep the conversation going—you might still impress them or find future opportunities. 

What responsibilities come with the role?

Learn if the role aligns with your skills, and don’t worry if you can’t do everything listed. Highlight your willingness to learn—it shows potential employers you’re adaptable and eager to grow. 

What is the pay rate?

It’s okay to ask! Knowing if the compensation meets your needs is essential. For reference, a living wage in Winnipeg is $18.35/hour (or $36,700/year for a family of four).

What are the benefits?

Ask about perks like dental, vision, or mental health coverage. Full-time roles often have robust benefits, but part-time positions may vary. Employers will explain more once you’re hired.

What’s your favorite part of working here? 

This personal question is a great way to connect. Hearing why they love their job might help you decide if this is the right workplace for you. 

Good luck at the career fair—you’ve got this!  

Manitoba Metis Federation Citizenship Registry Office – Jan. 22

January 7, 2025

Get your MMF Citizenship or Harvester Card! 

The Manitoba Metis Federation Citizenship Registry Office will be in the Atrium at EDC on January 23 from 10 am – 2 pm offering applications and renewals. Best of all? We’re covering the fees for all students! Don’t miss this chance to get your card—see you there!

No registration is required.

  • 10 am – 2 pm
  • Wednesday, Jan. 22
  • Atrium, Exchange District Campus

If you have any questions, please contact Terri-Lynn Anderson, Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator, tlanderson@rrc.ca.

Full Moon Teachings with Ivana Yellowback – Monday, Jan. 13

January 6, 2025

Join us on January 13 from 12-1pm at the Indigenous Support Centre for a special event with Ivana Yellowback!

Dive into Full Moon Teachings and experience an enriching discussion open to staff, students, and faculty. Enjoy light snacks and refreshments as we gather in community. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn and connect!

  • 12pm – 1pm
  • Monday, Jan. 13
  • F209 Indigenous Support Centre

No registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact Terri-Lynn Anderson, Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator, tlanderson@rrc.ca.

We’re so excited to welcome back Ivana! She had shared Cedar Bath Teachings with RRC Polytech during the last Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement Week. 

Ivana Yellowback is a member of Manto Sipi Cree Nation (Treaty 5) and a relative to Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (Treaty 6), and was born and raised in the inner-city of Winnipeg, Manitoba (located in Treaty 1).   

Ivana is an Associate Producer, Writer, Cree host, and English co-host of Eagle Vision’s 7th GEN. She also acted as principal characters in both DJ Burnt Bannock and Little Bird, all of which are available to watch on APTN Lumi. Ivana is also a co-creator, host, writer, and executive producer of the Indigenous supernatural podcast show: Creepee Tepee.   

Along with her film work, and academics, Ivana is an Executive Training Facilitator with Indigenous Leadership Development Institute Inc., an Executive Board Member of Sākihiwē Festival, a Registered Social Worker with the Manitoba College of Social Workers, and an Action Therapist. She is also a co-creator of the venture: miteh atôskê (mih-teh at-oh-ski / heart work), which provides various trainings, workshops, and healing programming through individual and group counselling through a two-eyed seeing, and Indigenous-based lens. Lastly, Ivana is a traditional hand-drum and rattle singer of the family group: Kind Hart Women Singers. 

Indigenous High School Students Ace It at the ACE IT Camp powered by IG Wealth Management

December 5, 2024

On October 11, thanks to a generous sponsorship from IG Wealth Management, Indigenous high school students had the opportunity to participate in RRC Polytech’s ACE IT Camp at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, where they learned how they could apply an education in information technology into future careers.

The day-long camp began with a smudge and a sharing circle, where students connected and set intentions for the day ahead. Brenton Wilson, a previous Pathway to IT Programs student now enrolled in Application Development and Delivery, presented an introduction to programming concepts using a Sphero Ball – a small robot that allowed participants to practice basic coding commands, such as guiding it along a specific path or programming it to change light colors at intervals. IG Wealth Management played a key role in inspiring students through a presentation on how they can unlock their potential in IT. The day included a panel discussion featuring industry professionals and RRC Polytech IT students, who shared insights into their own career journeys and opportunities in the tech field.

“The students loved the hands-on activities and the chance to be on campus. It was very valuable for them to hear from current students and staff involved in the program – I think it opened their minds to the variety of IT options across all fields of work and the experience showed them the versatility that a career in IT provides,” said Hailey Skrumeda, teacher, Southeast Collegiate.

Students were eager to explore how learning coding and understanding hardware could be applied to their everyday lives – one student shared that having a basic understanding could help them repair console controllers or more efficiently search for documents online.

Technology touches nearly every part of our daily lives – whether it’s apps, social media, or tech products, IT professionals are behind the tools and innovations that shape our world. By pursuing a career in IT, students become part of a vital and ever-growing industry that drives change in almost every aspect of modern life.

RRC Polytech is committed to ensuring that Indigenous students have equitable access to post-secondary education across all industries, which includes providing opportunities to engage with Indigenous professionals in real-world settings. The ACE IT Camp powered by IG Wealth Management not only introduced students to the diverse possibilities in tech, but also showcased the strength of Indigenous students as influential role models.

Through our shared commitment with IG Wealth Management, we are prepared to foster inclusivity in tech, create pathways for future Indigenous leaders, and demonstrate how collaboration can open doors to meaningful opportunities to inspire the next generation. IG Wealth Management continuously supports Indigenous learners through the IG Wealth Management Empower Your Tomorrow Scholarship and Career Development Program at the College. This support reduces the financial burden to students while helping them learn in team settings, build leadership skills and confidence, develop academic and job skills, and gain work experience with IG Wealth.

Learn more about the IG Wealth Management Empower Your Tomorrow Program here.

Learn more about RRC Polytech’s Pathway programs for Indigenous students here.

Aadizooke – Winter Solstice 2024

November 25, 2024

On behalf of Elder-In-Residence Paul Guimond, we are pleased to invite you to our Winter Solstice Celebration and Pipe Ceremony on Friday, December 6. This time of year can be challenging for many, and this event offers an opportunity to speak, listen, heal, and rest. The Winter Solstice typically occurs on December 21 – the shortest day of the year – but we invite everyone to gather with us on December 6 before the term comes to a close.

Join us for a Pipe Ceremony in the Indigenous Support Centre at 10am, followed by a short walk down to the wiigiyam (tiipii) to the north outside of F Building for the Sacred Fire Offering. Please dress warmly for the weather. At 12pm, we will Feast together in the Indigenous Support Centre.

Date:     Friday, December 6

Time:     10:00 am – Pipe Ceremony, followed by the Sacred Fire Offering

               12:00 pm – Feast

    If you have any questions, please contact Sara McIvor-Prouty, Events Coordinator, at smcivor@rrc.ca

    No registration is required – everyone is welcome.

    Join us for a Festive Family Fun Night!

    November 20, 2024

    Come celebrate the holidays with laughter, cheer, and gingerbread decorating! Bring your family and friends for an evening of holiday joy and exciting activities.

    Gingerbread House Decorating
    Show off your decorating skills! Gingerbread houses and supplies included.

    Prizes & Food Provided
    Enjoy holiday treats, warm beverages, and the chance to win fun prizes.

    Date: Thursday, December 5th, 2024
    Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
    Location: Indigenous Support Centre F209, Notre Dame Campus

    Registration Required: Register now as spots are limited!
    Sign up by emailing: Haley Pratt, navigation coach, at hpratt2@rrc.ca

    Indigenous Veterans Day 2024

    November 8, 2024

    It wasn’t until 1994, when Indigenous veterans and their families began advocating for recognition, that Canadian society became aware of the mistreatment Indigenous soldiers faced upon returning home. During wartime, Canada took vast amounts of reserve lands, some of which were granted as farmland to non-Indigenous veterans in recognition of their service. Meanwhile, Indigenous veterans were frequently denied the full veterans’ benefits and support programs offered to their non-Indigenous counterparts. In some cases, they were even pressured to “enfranchise”—a process in which they could gain Canadian citizenship and its associated rights, but only if they relinquished their Indian Status and cultural identities.

    Today, Indigenous people are celebrated and acknowledged at all levels for their contributions to Canada’s military history. On November 8th, hundreds of ceremonies and vigils are held across the country to honor and reflect on the Indigenous experience in the Canadian military.

    To recognize, acknowledge, respect and remember what Indigenous veterans did for our country, we are gifting staff & students commemorative pins. 

    Pins can be picked up from the Notre Dame Campus Indigenous Student Support Center (F205).

    Stop by 12:00pm-2:00pm to collect your pin.


    Last year, VP, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development Jamie Wilson shared his experiences in the Canadian and American militaries, which you can read here on the blog.

    Learn more about National Indigenous Veterans’ Day on the Library blog or check out these resources:

    International Inuit Day 2024

    November 7, 2024

    In 2006, the Inuit Circumpolar Council established November 7 as International Inuit Day. More than 70,000 Inuit people live in Canada, with 69 percent living within Inuit Nunangat, northern Canada, composed of four distinct regions, Nunatsiavut, Nunavik, Nunavut and Inuvialuit.

    Manitoba is home to the Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq, which has one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary Inuit art, bringing close to 5,000 stone carvings to light in its visible vault. Explore the stunning collection of Inuit art in the heart of downtown Winnipeg – the first floor (includes the visible vault) is always FREE to visit.

    International Inuit Day is also a time to recognize how the way of life continues to change for Inuit peoples as the landscape literally and figuratively transforms. Read A balancing act between the two worlds: What it means to be Inuit, via Nunavut News.

    In honour of National Inuit Day today, the Indigenous Supports Team is screening Ever Deadly in F209 This film weaves concert footage with stunning sequences filmed on location in Nunavut, seamlessly bridging landscapes, stories and songs with pain, anger and triumph—all through the expressions of Tanya Tagaq, one of the most innovative musical performers of our time.

    This film discusses topics of trauma and abuse. Viewer discretion is advised.

    Drop-in, Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 11:30am to 1 pm in the NDC F209.

    RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

    We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.