Indigenous Education

News and Announcements

Full Moon Teachings with Ivana Yellowback – Wednesday, Feb. 12

January 23, 2025

Join us on February 12 from 12 – 1pm at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae at the Exchange District Campus 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
  • Wednesday, February 12
  • E155 (Multipurpose Room), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, EDC

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

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.

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! 

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.  

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

Reminder: Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award Application deadline January 31, 2025

January 9, 2025

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.

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.

First Nations (Status and Non-Status), Métis and Inuit Learners: Apply for free in January 2025

December 2, 2024

Throughout the month of January 2025, First Nations (Status and Non-Status), Métis and Inuit learners are invited to submit one free application to any RRC Polytech program.

You are welcome to send this information to anyone who may be interested in this promotion.

Applicants that self-declare as First Nations (Status and Non-Status), Métis or Inuit will have the application fee and seat deposit waived for any RRC Polytech program – every person is eligible for one free application to any program and any intake. With over 150 programs to choose from, learners can find the perfect program to fit their needs and provide the credential needed to start a career.

Applying is easy. Review the admission requirements for your program of choice and submit your application online or in-person.

Online

  • With an RRC Polytech account,  an online application can be worked on over several sessions, including uploading of required documents, viewing of the final application, and more.

In-person

  • A visit to one of our Student Service Centres can help with getting an application started. The Centres offer a variety of services in one convenient location and support students by phone, email and in person.

Future learners: need more information on where to start? Check out our website for more information or get in touch with the Indigenous Admissions Advisor. The advisor will review program information, program options, and admissions requirements, and connect you with helpful resources and services.

Note: Health Sciences programs such as Nursing or Ultrasound have multiple admission requirements that need to be met before applying to these programs. Please contact the Indigenous Admissions Advisor for further details.

Upcoming Information Sessions

Indigenous Free Application Events

Join us for Indigenous Free Application Events held from 3 – 7 pm in January at the Indigenous Student Support Centres. Our staff will be available to provide information on the RRC Polytech programs, admissions requirements, the application process, and the resources and services available to you. Connect with our Indigenous student support team to explore how you can achieve your educational and career goals. These events do not require registration and you may drop in at any time.

F209, Notre Dame Campus, 3pm – 7pm

  • Thursday, January 9
  • Thursday, January 16
  • Thursday, January 30

P407, Exchange District Campus, 3pm – 7pm

  • Thursday, January 23

Health Sciences Admission Requirements Events

Join us for information sessions to learn more about RRC Polytech’s Nursing, Medical Radiologic Technology, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Ultrasound, and Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography – Echocardiography programs. This information will include a program overview, admission requirements, how to apply and much more.

All sessions will take place in the Black Lecture Theatre at Notre Dame Campus at 6pm.

Allied Health Sciences

Bachelor of Nursing

Explore all programs on our website.

Skip the search – here are entry-level programs currently accepting applications for Fall 2025 (no previous industry experience required!):

Business and entrepreneurship

Education and community support

Healthcare and Safety

Technology and Trades

Manufacturing and Machine-Learning

*Term and seat availability are subject to change.

Check out our website for more information or get in touch with the Indigenous Admissions Advisor. The advisor will review program information, program options, and admissions requirements, and connect you with helpful resources and services.  

Reclaim the Strength of Language with Free Anishinaabemowin Courses at RRC Polytech!

November 25, 2024

Thanks to the generous support of CWB Financial Group, RRC Polytech is offering Anishinaabemowin courses to help you connect with your cultural roots at no cost. Whether you’re just starting out with Introduction to Anishinaabemowin or looking to deepen your knowledge in Conversational Anishinaabemowin, these face-to-face classes are the perfect opportunity to learn from a fluent instructor and engage with fellow learners. Strengthen your connection to the Anishinaabe culture, develop meaningful relationships, and build a strong foundation in the language – all in a supportive and immersive environment.

Introduction to Anishinaabemowin starts on Jan. 8, 2025, and runs every Wednesday evening 5pm – 8pm until April 23, 2025. Conversational Anishinaabemowin starts in May 2025.

Check out the program page for more information and to register.

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.