RRC Polytech’s School of Indigenous Education is hiring a Navigation Coach to help guide and support Indigenous learners through their academic journeys.

This full-time term position runs from August 14, 2025 to April 30, 2030, and is based at the Notre Dame Campus in Winnipeg.

Navigation Coaches are first points of contact for new and returning students and they play a vital role in helping learners transition into college life, which includes:

• Supporting students through recruitment, application, and orientation
• Connecting learners to resources, services, and cultural supports
• Collaborating with Elders, faculty, and Indigenous communities
• Coordinating events and maintaining student records

To support reconciliation and equity in hiring, this position is designated for Indigenous candidates only. If you self-identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit, we encourage you to apply.

Indigenous applicants are welcome to reach out to our Indigenous Recruitment Consultant at Indigenoustalent@rrc.ca for assistance with the application process.

Application deadline: July 16, 2025
Requisition number: 00513

This role requires strong communication, organizational, and cultural knowledge, as well as experience supporting Indigenous students.

Internal applicants can visit the HRIS portal to apply. External applicants can visit our Recruitment Site for more information.

Navigation Coach, School of Indigenous EducationDownload

MITAH-koo-ya OYA-shin OAK-ah-pee

Mitakuye Oyasin Okciyape is the name for the large open space you walk into in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. In Dakota, the name means All My Relations Helping Each Other.

On Friday, June 20, RRC Polytech marked an important moment in its journey of reconciliation and relationship-building. We gathered to honour the first anniversary of Mitakuye Oyasin Okciyape being gifted to the large open space at 319 Elgin Ave. in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae.

This ceremony was more than a celebration – it was a transfer of sacred responsibility. Kunshi Ivy, who had been holding and caring for the name, entrusted it to RRC Polytech by passing it into the care of four selected leaders. Each of them now carries the responsibility to honour the spirit of the name, uphold Dakota Ceremonial Protocols, and ensure the space continues to reflect the values of connection, respect, and shared responsibility.

This is the first time RRC Polytech has received a Dakota name, and it represents an act of trust from the Dakota Nation. Mitakuye Oyasin Okciyape is more than just a name on a door; it’s a prayer. It’s a reminder that we are all connected – to each other, to the land, to the past, and to the future. And now, it’s also a living commitment we carry forward together.

To read more about Mitakuye Oyasin Okciyape, check out the MarComm blog.

Over the past several weeks, we’ve listened, learned, and reflected.

From January 30th to March 12th, through eight engagement sessions and a survey reaching more than 350 participants, we heard powerful stories, teachings, and visions for what our Indigenous Visual Identity should embody. 

Sacredness. Seasonality. Directions. Interconnectedness. The importance of language, fire, water, and the land – its plants, its spirit, its stories. These themes emerged again and again, underscoring a deep connection to identity, history, and place. Participants also highlighted the importance of distinguishing Métis, Inuit, and First Nations cultures in a meaningful and authentic way.

Visually, this identity must be more than just a design – it must feel lived, woven into the fabric of who we are. Earth tones reflect our connection to the land, while vibrant colours draw inspiration from beadwork, regalia, and the many cultures they represent. Celestial and seasonal influences remind us of the ever-changing yet cyclical nature of life. The textures of natural materials – organic, tactile, grounded – carry stories of resilience, tradition, and knowledge passed through generations.

We were reminded that no story or teaching stands alone – each is inseparable from its meaning and the voice that carries it. This is essential. It is through story that teachings live and breathe, and it is through meaning that they guide us.

Now, with these insights in hand, our design team is working with RRC Polytech’s Knowledge Keepers Council to finalize a conceptual direction that will bring these ideas to life. As the work progresses, we remain grateful for the voices that have guided this journey so far. Your wisdom and stories are the foundation of this visual identity, ensuring it is a reflection of both tradition and future generations.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this important work.

About Narratives Inc.

Narratives emerged to create space for early, respectful dialogue that supports informed, values-based decision-making. It aims to deepen understanding of how projects and policies affect the social, cultural, biophysical, and spiritual fabric of our world. By challenging the boundaries of research, planning, and practice, Narratives contributes to reconciliation — one story at a time. Rooted where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet, within the traditional territories of the Anishinaabeg, the Ininiwak, the Anisininewak, the Dakota Oyate, and the Denésuline, in Treaty 1 territory, and the homeland of the Métis.

Gabriel Nanacowop and Kendrah Sinclair from Culinary Skills (Indigenous) were recently featured in the Winnipeg Free Press, highlighting their hands-on experience at the Wiisinin Diner. The article showcases their journey in mastering traditional Indigenous cooking techniques while gaining real-world restaurant experience. Read the full story to see how these students are making their mark in the culinary world: Winnipeg Free Press.

At RRC Polytech, our second institutional priority is a strong commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, as well as Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. We actively engage with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action by collaborating closely with Indigenous communities both within and beyond the College.

In 2019, RRC Polytech introduced its first land acknowledgement, which has since evolved into a living declaration of our ongoing commitment to strengthening relationships, fostering dialogue, and honoring Indigenous voices.

We recognize that Indigenous languages are diverse, fluid, and vary across communities. Different dialects may use distinct spellings or representations of sounds within the English writing system. The spellings we have chosen reflect consultations with the nations represented in our land acknowledgement. Colonization has historically anglicized Indigenous names and words, and using each nation’s self-identified name is a crucial step in reclamation and self-determination.

We have updated the land acknowledgement to better reflect the collectives in each language:

In full, the current RRC Polytech land acknowledgement reads:

RRC Polytech is committed to ensuring that First Nations, Métis and Inuit knowledge, cultures and traditions are embraced and reflected in the pursuit of its mission.

An acknowledgement of these lands that we are on today, and of the RRC Polytech commitment to Indigenous peoples and communities, now form part of the foundational statements that define RRC Polytech.

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.

We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

RRC Polytech is committed to a renewed relationship and dialogue with Indigenous people based on the principles of mutual trust, respect, and reciprocity.

You may use a shortened version of the full land acknowledgement where appropriate, including in email signatures. The shortened version focuses on the nations and resources as the core elements of the acknowledgement:

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.

The land acknowledgement can also be publicly accessed from the new Truth and Reconciliation website section under Initiatives, which also includes the pronunciation guide.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Carla Kematch, Director, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement at cakematch@rrc.ca.

Indigenous Culinary Skills students launch annual pop-up diner

The Indigenous Culinary Skills students at RRC Polytech are bringing their talents to the table with the return of their much-anticipated pop-up diner! This hands-on learning experience allows students to showcase their newly acquired culinary skills while serving up delicious breakfast and lunch options for staff and students.

Located in the Prairie Lights Dining Room (Building C – Mall Level) at the Notre Dame Campus, the Wiisinin Diner will officially open its doors with a soft launch on March 13-14 and offering a limited menu.

The full menu will be available starting Tuesday, March 18.

Hours of Operation

Tuesday – Friday, March 18 – April 25*

• Breakfast: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
• Lunch: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

*Soft launch with limited menu items is on Thursday, March 13

For the first time, the Wiisinin Diner will offer point-of-sale service, meaning vouchers are no longer required. Guests can conveniently pay for their meals directly in the Prairie Lights Dining Room.

Important Notes

• Single orders only – No modifications can be accommodated.
• Training environment – As students hone their skills, orders may take longer or have minor errors. Your patience and support are greatly appreciated!

For the full menu, visit the Wiisinin Diner webpage.

We want to see your vision for Truth and Reconciliation reflected in a stunning design.

Every year, RRC Polytech showcases the work of an Indigenous artist on its original Orange Shirt, supporting the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award, a bursary awarded to Indigenous students each winter term.

This year, we’re inviting Indigenous students to create a powerful and meaningful design for the Orange Shirt, honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Your artwork could become a symbol of Truth and Reconciliation, featured in the Campus Store and worn by our community.

This is more than just a t-shirt design—it’s a chance to share your voice, amplify Indigenous stories, and stand in solidarity with the ongoing journey of reconciliation. Your design will raise awareness, spark important conversations, and unite our community for this significant day.

The selected design will be featured as this year’s RRC Polytech Original Orange Shirt. The artist will receive a $1,000 prize and their story will be highlighted on our Indigenous blog. The t-shirts will be produced by Red Rebel Armour, owned and operated by Indigenous graduate Sean Rayland-Boubar.

Design guidelines:

Style: Monochromatic line art. Your design should be simple yet profound, using only black and white throughout the design. See past year designs for examples.

Theme: Incorporate elements that represent Truth, Reconciliation, and Healing. This can include symbolic imagery, abstract representations, or meaningful words.

Format: Submit your design in a high-resolution digital format (JPG, PNG, or PDF).

Artist statement: Include a statement (200 – 400 words) explaining what your artwork means to you and how it connects to the themes of Truth and Reconciliation.

Eligibility: Open to all Indigenous students.

Deadline: Wednesday, April 30, 2025

How to submit:

Submit your completed design here. Include your name, student email address, student ID number, artist statement, and design.

Contest Rules:

Please read these rules before entering the online contest. By participating in the contest, you agree to be bound by these Rules and represent that you satisfy all of the requirements below.

No purchase is necessary to enter or win.

1. Eligibility: This contest is open to all legal residents of Canada who have reached the age of majority in their province or territory of residence as of the date of entry. Employees of Red River College Polytechnic and their immediate family members are not eligible to enter. This contest is void where prohibited.
2. How to Enter: No purchase necessary. To be eligible to win the prizes, entries must be completed and received in the format designated below.

All entry information, including the identity of the participant, is subject to verification. By entering the contest, the participant consents to share personal information with Red River College Polytechnic for the purposes of administering the contest and also consents to receive email communications from the College in relation to academic programs, news and events.

All personal information is handled in accordance with Red River College Polytechnic Policy G3— Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy and the RRC Polytech Website Privacy Statement.

Complete and submit an online entry form before the closing date. Limit one entry per person.

• Odds of Winning: Odds of winning the prize are dependent on the decision of the Orange Shirt Design Selection Committee.

• Time Frame: The contest begins at 2:00 p.m. CT on Friday, February 28, 2025, and closes at 3:00 p.m. CT on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. No entries submitted after the close of the contest will be accepted.

• Prize: One winner will receive the following prize: $1,000 and a feature story on the Indigenous Blog.

1. Winner Selection and Notification: Winners will be selected by the Orange Shirt Design Selection Committee at Red River College Polytechnic at 3:30 p.m. CT on Friday, May 9, 2025 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and must correctly answer a time-limited mathematical skill-testing question in order to redeem the prizes as required by the Government of Manitoba. If the winner is unable to answer the skill-testing question, they will be unable to claim the prize and a new winner will be chosen using the same method, excluding all previous winners. The winners will be notified within approximately (1) business day of the selection via either email or telephone. The prize may be forfeited and awarded to an alternate winner if: (a) two (2) attempts to contact the winner by phone and/or e-mail within 24 hours are not successful; (2) if required by the contest organizer, any declaration and release forms are not signed and returned within the state time period. The contest organizer reserves the right to cancel the contest if there are no entries received by 12:00 p.m. CT on April 30, 2025.
2. Awarding of the Prize: The winner may be asked to present photo identification as verification to claim the prize. Any federal, provincial or local taxes associated with the receipt or use of the prize are the sole responsibility of the winner. No substitutions or exchanges (including for cash) of the prize will be permitted, except that the contest organizer reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value for any prize. The prize is awarded “as is” and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Where disclosed, currency is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stipulated.
3. Declaration of Release: By participating in this contest, entrants agree to release and hold harmless Red River College Polytechnic, and any of its officers, directors, representatives, agents, and employees, from any and all liability from injury, loss or damage of any kind resulting from acceptance, possession, use or misuse of any prize, participation in this contest, any breach of these contest rules, or in any prize-related activity. Each entrant agrees to fully indemnify the Released Parties from any and all claims by third parties relating to the contest, without limitation.
4. Release for Promotional Purposes: Entrance into this contest constitutes permission for Red River College Polytechnic to use the winner’s name, city and provinces/territories of residence and likenesses for purposes of advertising and publicity in any and all media now or hereafter known throughout the world in perpetuity, without further compensation, notification, or permission, unless prohibited by law.
5. Limitation of Liability: By entering the contest, participants agree to accept these official rules and any decisions of the contest organizer, which shall be final in all matters. By entering the contest, participants release the contest organizer from any liability whatsoever, and waive any and all causes of action, related to any claims, costs, injuries, losses, or damages of any kind arising out of or in connection with the contest or delivery, misdelivery, acceptance, possession, use of or inability to use any prize. The contest organizer assumes no responsibility for lost, stolen, delayed, damaged or misdirected entries or for any failure, or for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, or computer transmission during the contest period. The contest organizer reserves the right to disqualify any person enters the contest or tries to do so by any means contrary to these rules or which would be unfair to other entrants.
6. Contest Organizer: Red River College Polytechnic, 2055 Notre Dame Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0J9.

For any questions related to the Orange Shirt Contest, please contact Robin Ringland, Indigenous Communications Officer, at rringland@rrc.ca.

Are you a professional looking for a new way to contribute to your community or industry?

Join us for an insightful webinar on the Circle of Friends Mentorship Program at RRC Polytech, a transformative initiative designed to support Indigenous learners throughout their academic journey and into their early careers. This program aims to empower Indigenous students, helping them build confidence, develop skills, and prepare for their future careers.

During this webinar, you will:

• Learn about the program’s goals and structure: Discover how the Circle of Friends Mentorship Program fosters community, builds confidence, and creates lasting connections between students and industry professionals.
• Explore opportunities for involvement: Find out how your company can participate in this initiative by becoming a mentor. Learn how to assess your readiness to support an Indigenous student and meet them where they are at.

This webinar is an excellent opportunity for companies, prospective students, current students, alumni, and community members to learn more about how RRC Polytech is creating a supportive and inclusive environment for Indigenous learners and building the next generation of Indigenous workforce.

Platform: Microsoft Teams
Presenter: Kelly Krakalovich, Mentorship Coordinator

Choose a date that works for you:

• February 18, 1pm – 2pm
• February 26, 10am – 11am
• February 27, 11am – 12pm

Register now to secure your spot and be part of this important conversation about mentorship, community, and the future of Indigenous education at RRC Polytech.

The Resource Crew, or R-Crew, helps the Indigenous Student Support Team and Indigenous Support Centres with activities and events throughout the year.

R-Crew members brainstorm and implement plans with the Support Team, speak and perform at events, and help with logistical set-up and tear-down, among many other tasks and responsibilities. They also help Indigenous students, those new to the College and those that have been around the block, get settled in and navigate everything from events to classes.

If you see an R-Crew member, say hi!

My name is Sydney, and I am a Red River Métis woman born and raised in Winnipeg. I am also a mother and a first-year student in the Business Administration program. My goals are to provide a good life for my family and contribute positively to my beautiful community. I am excited to begin my journey with R-Crew and the wonderful people in Indigenous Education. 

Hi! My name is Loren Anderson. I’m a Métis woman currently residing in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I am a first-year student in the Youth Recreation Program, getting back into the swing of school! I felt that joining the R-Crew would help me reconnect with and engage in my culture. The R-Crew has created a safe and welcoming space for me and many others. Come say hi if you see me around! 

Hello, my name is Robert Massan, and I am from Fox Lake Cree Nation, 1,000 km north of Winnipeg. I’m enrolled in the Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanic Program and really enjoy the process of getting to know myself and the college. 

I genuinely enjoy helping people and getting to know individuals from different areas of study. I found this to be a great opportunity to assist those who might be unaware of the many resources RRC Polytech offers. I discovered that the Indigenous Support Centre is the best place to start asking questions. So, if you have any questions and see me around, please don’t hesitate to ask! 

Aaniin, boozhoo! My name is Hevyn-Lee, but in my language, I am known as Oshkii Memengwaakwe (Bright Butterfly Woman). I’m a proud Anishinaabe woman from Brokenhead Ojibway Nation and the Wolf Clan. 

I’m in the Pathway to Business, Communications, and Digital Technology Program. I plan to pursue Communications for Journalism, as well as Social Innovation and Community Development. My main goal is to use the skills, knowledge, and community I gain from RRC Polytech to better my community for future generations. 

I’m grateful for the opportunity to help as a member of the Resource Crew. I spend most of my time on campus in F-209, where I enjoy participating in ceremonies and drumming with Richard. If you see me, don’t be afraid to say hi! 

Miigwetch.

Hi, my name is Guy, aka Geese (lol). My spirit name is White Wolf, and I belong to the Turtle Clan. I am a proud Métis from Richer, MB, and currently live in Transcona. I’m in recovery, which has led me to reconnect spiritually with my culture and seek wisdom from the Creator and elders in surrounding communities and on campus. 

I’m a second-year student in the Disability and Community Support Program and can often be found in Building A or the Indigenous Student Centre. I enjoy the sense of community on campus and love helping out at most events. Feel free to say hi if we cross paths! 

Aaniin (hello)! My name is Lexie Moneyas, and my spirit name is Cedar Walking Woman. I am an Anishinaabe Ikwe from Hollow Water First Nation, currently pursuing a Business Administration diploma. 

I’m passionate about creating a welcoming, supportive space for Indigenous students at RRC Polytech. I’m always here for others—whether it’s offering guidance, support, or simply being a friendly face. 

In high school, I was involved in fundraising, community events, sports, school band, and outdoor activities near the water and the bush, which fueled my love for helping others and staying connected to my culture. Now, I enjoy expressing my creativity through painting, beading, drawing, and makeup while staying active and working toward my educational goals. 

My hope is to use the skills I’m learning to give back to my community, inspire others, and always be a source of support. As an R-Crew member, I’m excited to represent the Indigenous Support Centre and help foster a sense of belonging for all students. If you see me around, feel free to say hello—I’m here for you! 

Miigwech! 

General RRC Polytech Application Required

Mínwastánikéwin is a Cree word that means ‘to set it right.’

The deadline to submit applications for the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award is January 31, 2025.

The Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award was made possible through collaboration between Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement, College & Public Relations and the Campus Store. The award is funded by the generous support of RRC students, staff and faculty through campaigns at the RRC Campus Store that bring awareness to Truth and Reconciliation and Indigenous-led initiatives such as Orange Shirt Day: Every Child Matters and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Honouring and Awareness Day.

“We need to take up more space in these places – we have to fight, but it doesn’t mean we don’t belong there. I have my ancestors behind me. I want people to know that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Use medicine, take care of yourself, go to Sweats. Learn about your family, your traditions – learn to be proud of your heritage and culture, take back your identity and learn your truth. You don’t have to wait.” – Camille Munro, 2024 Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award recipient.

This award is for Indigenous full-time students. Recipients will be selected based on an essay response on what Truth and Reconciliation means to them. To be eligible, applicants are required to submit a General RRC Application, proof of Indigenous heritage, and a one-page essay submission. The deadline for applications is January 31, 2025.  Completed application forms should be submitted by email to financialaid@rrc.ca.

For more information about the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award, see the Awards, Bursaries, and Scholarships Catalogue.

If you need help filling out and submitting your application, reach out to one of the Navigation Coaches in F205 at the Notre Dame Campus or P407 at the Exchange District Campus, or send a message through our online contact form and select ‘Navigation Coach’.

Last year, the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award was awarded to two recipients: Camille Munro and Peggy Guimond.