Register today!

The University of Manitoba, Red River College and Global Affairs Canada are delighted to elevate Indigenous voices in international relations for this gathering. Indigenous leaders have a deep diplomatic history and strong global networks. Through this event, students will engage with Indigenous diplomats, politicians and community leaders. This will be a unique opportunity to make lasting connections and learn from leaders committed to strengthening Indigenous relations and diplomatic approaches that are rooted in rich Indigenous history, teachings and cultures.

Join us at the Manitoba Indigenous Diplomacy Forum on Friday, March 14, 2025, and engage with Indigenous leaders today – become a leader tomorrow!

This gathering is all about starting a conversation on Indigenous diplomacy, how leaders have shaped it and how students can be part of its future. It’s a chance to explore global opportunities, connect with Indigenous diplomats, and see how they are driving reconciliation and representation. Whether it’s learning about international relations or finding a path to a career in diplomacy, this is an open door for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students. With a strong focus on Manitoba, we are building connections, creating opportunities, and making sure Indigenous voices are heard on the world stage.

The opening ceremonies will kick off at 10:30 AM, with a keynote address focusing on Indigenous Diplomacy – Past, Present, and Future. Following that, at 12:00 PM, there will be a networking lunch with Indigenous diplomats, leaders and politicians, and special guests. At 1:05 PM, the discussion will turn to The Role of Indigenous Youth in International Relations, highlighting the important contributions of young Indigenous voices. The first panel at 1:25 PM will explore Manitoba Indigenous Leadership in International Affairs, and the second panel at 2:50 PM will cover Global Affairs Canada – Indigenous Representation Abroad.

Register with Jessica Bloomfield, Senior Strategic Advisor, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development by email at jbloomfield@rrc.ca with Indigenous Diplomacy Forum – Student Registration as the subject line.

The Indigenous Diplomacy Forum – Global Affairs Canada

Date: Friday, March 14, 2025

Time: 10:30am – 3:40 pm

Location: Manitoba Legislative Building

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! 

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 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 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.

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!  

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.

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.

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. 

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.