Indigenous Youth Career Camp

A weeklong day camp for Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) youth ages 18 to 24.

The camp promotes interest in careers in justice, public safety, and health care through applied education, cultural experiences and connections, and engagements with a wide range of community partners at multiple JIBC campuses.

The camp provides opportunities for youth to meet new friends from across British Columbia, connect with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, have fun, and learn in a culturally safe and supportive environment.

AUTHORING TOOL(S) USED

N/A

WHY WAS THIS PROJECT NEEDED?

This project is needed to help increase Indigenous representation within justice and public safety careers.

HOW DOES THIS DEMONSTRATE INNOVATION?

This was the first time the camp was offered to this age group. I do not know of another camp of this type (which is why external interest continues to increase). Consider the areas involved as I believe the camp provides a uniquely innovative experience.

PROBLEMS OR CHALLENGES FACED?

Challenges were mainly logistical (such as barriers faced by out-of-town applicants, transportation, work commitments).

LESSONS LEARNED

One lesson learned is that direct contact with the areas involved was highly impactful for both the participants and the people representing each area. The camp can really help change perspectives.

About Elder Phillip Gladue

Phillip Gladue is a respected Métis Elder from Alberta who was raised in the traditional way. Phillip is proud of his Métis-Cree culture and the fact that he never lost his language while he was growing up. Phillip likes to jig, drum and sing. He was awarded the Queens Jubilee Medal and has been a candidate for the Vancouver Aboriginal Awards.

About Jason La Rochelle

Jason La Rochelle is from the Haida Nation, his traditional name is Skeweqsalalexw, and he is the Director for the Office of Indigenization. He has worked in the field of Indigenous Education for 25 years. Jason has led 5 Indigenous Youth Career Camps. He feels inspired every summer by the Indigenous youth engaging in justice and public safety career exploration.

About Nicole Mate

Nicole Mate is the Program Planner with the Office of Indigenization at JIBC and is deeply rooted in her Métis community. Her maternal lineage traces back to the Hamelin and Vandal families, who originally took script from the Red River communities of Ste. Anne des Chenes and Saint Boniface. For the past four summers, Nicole has passionately contributed to JIBC’s Indigenous Youth Career Camp (IYCC). She describes this experience as profoundly rewarding, cherishing the lasting connections she makes with youth as she supports their journeys toward post-secondary education. She believes in the power of community engagement and strives to cultivate meaningful relationships that foster understanding and collaboration through initiatives like IYCC.