BC NEIHR January 1, 2023

https://sierraclub.bc.ca/marten/

Mission Statement: The BC NEIHR facilitates and supports capacity for and engagement in Indigenous-led health research that is woven from the values, knowledge systems, protocols, priorities and leadership of Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs), academic researchers and students in BC. Our collective goal is to ground BC NEIHR structures, relationships and processes in the values and principles of self-determination, Indigenous knowledge, wholistic population health and wellness, as well as intersectionality, equity, and transparency. We also aspire to promote and support Indigenous and/or decolonizing (ID) methodologies, ethics and OCAP® in Indigenous research. In BC NEIHR activities, we acknowledge and will uphold the cultural safety and cultural humility that is modeled by the work of the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and the work yet to come from other ICCOs.

The BC NEIHR is guided by three Indigenous-governed, community-led organizations that are leading health and wellness research across BC. The three salmon in our logo represent these key partners:

If you would like to join the British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research, fill out the BC NEIHR Registration Survey Form.

Being part of the BC NEIHR will connect you to research and student funding, trainings, events, employment and other unique opportunities in British Columbia and across Canada!

Already a BC NEIHR Member? Do not forget to update your Registration Form each year to ensure we have accurate records.

BC NEIHR UPDATES

Dr. Shannon McDonald, Acting Chief Medical Officer at the First Nations Health Authority in BC, a member of the BC NEIHR Governing Council and a BC NEIHR Principal Investigator, is retiring this January. Dr. McDonald has been deeply committed to the principles of supporting capacity and community development, as keys to improving the health status of all people. In recognition of her significant accomplishments, and for her leadership and advocacy for physician services in BC’s rural and remote First Nations communities, Dr. McDonald received the BC Physicians Champion of Change award from the Doctors of BC. The Operations Team, Governing Council, and the BC NEIHR Network would like to thank Dr. McDonald for the time, energy and amazing work she has put into the BC NEIHR as a Governing Council member and Principal Investigator. We all wish her well and she will be missed!

ICCO (Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations) funding call now open! We have two funding streams available to all ICCOs of BC. Click on each grant to learn more on our website: Research Development Grant; Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization Grant. If you have any questions about these funding opportunities, please reach out to the Network Coordinator at bcneihr@uvic.ca or the Indigenous Health Research Facilitator (IHRF) for your region. Deadline Extended: January 20, 2023.

Indigenous Graduate and Post-Doctoral funding call now open! We are accepting applications for the Master’s Scholarship Program valued at $17,500, the Doctoral Scholarship Program valued at $35,000 and the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, $59,398 each year (varying duration). Information about each grant and all of the application materials can be found on our website under Funding: Graduate and Post-Doctoral Funding. EXPANSION OF STUDENT FUNDING ELIGIBILITY IF COVID-19 HAS DELAYED RESEARCH: The BC NEIHR understands that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to negatively impact Indigenous trainees and ICCOs (Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations) in different ways. Given the potential for delays in research activities as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we will consider (on a case-by-case basis) applications from students who are beyond 12 months of study in a Master’s program or beyond 36 months in a Doctoral program. For any questions, please reach out to the Network Coordinator (bcneihr@uvic.ca). Deadline: February 1, 2023.

The BC NEIHR is excited to share our Podcast, Research DE-Colonized!

Join the BC NEIHR and members of the Indigenous Health Research Facilitator team as they connect with inspiring Indigenous health and wellness scholars, healthcare professionals, and communities sharing their stories of how they’re decolonizing health and wellness research, changing healthcare and academe along the way. Topics of conversation will cover pathways into health and wellness research, techniques and research design, funding research, past and present health and wellness projects, and ethical research protocols when involving Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations. Our first episode features Indigenous Health Research Facilitator, Laura, as she introduces listeners to the Who, What, and Why of the BC NEIHR, our programming and funding opportunities, and what to expect in future episodes. Episodes will be released on the last Friday of every month. To listen, find us at: https://researchdecolonized.buzzsprout.com. This podcast is also hosted on Spotify, Podchaser, Player FM, and Podcast Addict. For more information on the podcast or the material presented, please contact lauramcnabcoombs@uvic.ca.

Research Funding

BC NEIHR Pilot Project Grants: for more information and all application materials visit: https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/bcneihr/pilot-project-grants/ or email bcneihr@uvic.ca.

ICCO (Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations) funding call now open! We have two funding streams available to all ICCOs of BC. Click on each grant to learn more on our website: Research Development Grant; Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization Grant. If you have any questions about these funding opportunities, please reach out to the Network Coordinator at bcneihr@uvic.ca or the Indigenous Health Research Facilitator (IHRF) for your region. Deadline Extended: January 20, 2023.

2023 CIHR Health System Impact Fellowship: Competition now open. The Health System Impact (HSI) Fellowship provides an embedded research opportunity for highly-qualified Ph.D. trainees and post-doctoral researchers studying health services and policy research (HSPR) or related fields. Read more about the Health System Impact Program here. Learn more about the Fellowship and apply on ResearchNet. Application deadline: March 2, 2023.

Participatory Action Research Grants. Participatory Action Research Grants (PAR) support research that is co-led by community members and researchers to learn more about the root causes of pressing issues impacting the health of communities. There are two different grant types available, depending on the stage your project is at in the participatory action research process:

• Convene Grants (up to $20,000, for up to one year). Convene grants are short-term grants to help teams to unpack a complex health issue and to question the systemic behaviours that have created that issue, or that are holding the issue in place. Convene grants help teams to articulate a research question and to develop a participatory research project plan that can then be submitted to funding organizations in the future. The funding requested should be distributed equitably between the convening process and the community’s participation in that process. Convene grants are a one-stage application.
• Investigate Grants (up to $100,000 per year, for up to three years). Investigate grants are multi-year grants to help teams answer a research question, analyze their findings, and share knowledge in a way that supports the community to take action in the future. Investigate grants have a two-stage application process. Applicants begin their application by completing the first stage of questions and, if successful, are then invited to complete the remaining questions.

Key Dates:

• January 16, 2023: Full applications for Convene grants & stage 1 of Investigate grants open.
• February 13, 2023: Full applications for Convene grants and stage 1 of Investigate grants close at 4:30 pm PT.
• End of March 2023: Invitations to submit a full application for Investigate grants emailed to recipients.
• End of April 2023: Full application submission deadline for Investigate grants.
• End of April 2023: Convene grant decisions communicated via email.
• End of June 2023: Investigate grant decisions communicated via email.
• The key dates may be updated in response to the volume of applications received, and any changes will be communicated via email to authors who have applications started and/or submitted in the online system.
• Click here to learn more.

Student Funding

Research Experience Award. The objective is to support Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) graduate students studying in British Columbia (BC), who are pursuing Indigenous wellness-related research and seeking to gain additional research-related experience. Eligibility: Indigenous graduate students in BC who have partnered with an Indigenous community, collective or organization (ICCO) to engage in a wellness-related research project that is mutually beneficial. Partnerships can form in response to a placement advertised by BC NEIHR or can be a pre-existing relationship. Applicants must be studying in and conducting research in British Columbia. Applicants must also have an Academic Mentor at an eligible institution for funds to be transferred. For more information and how to apply, click here. No deadline: Research Experiences will be reviewed on a rolling basis, pending opportunities available for placements within ICCOs. Any student who has a pre-established relationship with an ICCO is eligible to submit an application with their ICCO partner at any time.

Indigenous Graduate and Post-Doctoral funding call now open. We are accepting applications for the Master’s Scholarship Program valued at $17,500, the Doctoral Scholarship Program valued at $35,000 and the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, $59,398 each year (varying duration). Information about each grant and all of the application materials can be found on our website under Funding: Graduate and Post-Doctoral Funding. EXPANSION OF STUDENT FUNDING ELIGIBILITY IF COVID-19 HAS DELAYED RESEARCH: The BC NEIHR understands that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to negatively impact Indigenous trainees and ICCOs (Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations) in different ways. Given the potential for delays in research activities as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we will consider (on a case-by-case basis) applications from students who are beyond 12 months of study in a Master’s program or beyond 36 months in a Doctoral program. For any questions, please reach out to the Network Coordinator (bcneihr@uvic.ca). Deadline: February 1, 2023.

“A SHARED Future” for Planetary Health, 1-2 Year Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunity. This postdoctoral fellowship opportunity is funded through a Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Environment and Health Signature Initiative (2016-2023): A SHARED Future (Achieving Strength, Health, and Autonomy through Renewable Energy Development for the Future) and the Impact Chair in Transformative Governance for Planetary Health. The successful candidate will work with co-supervision from Dr Heather Castleden who holds the President’s Impact Chair in Transformative Governance for Planetary Health (UVic) and Dr Diana Lewis, Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Environmental Health Impact Assessment (University of Guelph). Dr Castleden and Dr Lewis are the Co-Directors of A SHARED Future. For more information and how to apply, click here. Relocation expenses may be provided. Review of applications will begin on Dec 19, 2022, and will continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is January 3, 2023.

Indigenous Research Fellowships (IRF) - 2023/2024. The Centre for Studies in Religion and Society (CSRS) at the University of Victoria welcomes applications from First Nations, Inuit, or Métis scholars (graduate students and faculty members) for a one-year fellowship appointment commencing September 1, 2023. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application deadline: Tuesday, January 24, 2023.

Indigenous Addiction Fellowship Opportunities. The BCCSU Interdisciplinary Addiction Fellowship program is pleased to share that additional funded fellowship opportunities are now available for self-identifying Indigenous applicants. This opportunity is available only for the 2023-24 program. Applicants with a background in medicine, nursing, nurse practitioner, pharmacy, and social work qualify for this funding. Deadline for applications:

• Addiction Medicine Fellowship: January 19, 2023
• Addiction Nursing, Nurse Practitioner, Pharmacy, and Social Work Fellowships: February 24, 2023

To learn more, click here. For more information about the Fellowship program and application process, please visit the Addiction Fellowship website.

ḴEL,ḴELOŦEN ȻE S,ISTEW̱ Education Fund. ḴEL,ḴELOŦEN ȻE S,ISTEW̱ will bring more Indigenous voices into architecture and building design, imbuing these industries with Indigenous values, perspectives and ways of knowing, being and doing. We invite all Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students pursuing careers in architecture or engineering to apply to the award. An award of $5,000 will be awarded annually to one successful applicant. All applicants will have the opportunity to make direct connections with industry professionals while allowing them to fully focus their energy on their studies. This will provide more opportunities for upcoming Indigenous professionals to work at places that meet their goals and needs more effectively. For more information and to apply, click here. Application Deadline Extended to January 6, 2023.

Beedie Luminaries are accepting 2023 Applications for the Beedie Luminaries Scholarship Program. Looking for Grade 12 students in B.C. who are facing financial barriers, to apply for one of 100+ scholarships available in 2023. Recipients will each receive up to $44,000 towards their post-secondary studies at any public university, college or trade school in B.C. In light of the labour shortage within the skilled trades sector, students considering a career in the trades are particularly encouraged to apply. For more information and to apply, click here. Deadline: January 12, 2023.

2023 Ike Barber Transfer Scholarship. The application period for 2023 Ike Barber Transfer Scholarships will open on January 24, 2023. Click here for how to apply. Application Deadline: April 17, 2023. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact the Society at info@bcscholarshipsociety.ca.

Build your own bright future with just one application! Hundreds of bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Since 2004, Indspire has provided over $153 million in financial support to more than 49,000 First Nations, Inuit and Métis students.

Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards for Post-Secondary Education and Skilled Trades. Full and part time studies in college, university, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and technology programs for the September 2022 – August 2023 academic year. There is one application for all of Indspire’s bursaries, scholarships, and awards (*with a few exceptions). You only need to complete the application once to be considered for all applicable bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Deadlines: August 1, November 1, February 1 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. *For more information and to apply, click here.

First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program. The First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program provides financial awards to Indigenous students enrolled in post-secondary education. Bursaries between $700-$1,200 are awarded to students who meet all eligibility requirements and who demonstrate significant financial need. Students apply for the bursary after they successfully complete a semester of post-secondary school. For more information and to apply, click here. Applications must be completed and submitted to the Education Coordinator by 5pm on the application deadline. Students must submit a new application for each semester. Application Deadlines:

• January 15th, 2023 – for students applying for the Fall 2022 semester (September-December)
• May 15th, 2023 – for students applying for the Winter 2023 Semester (January-April)

The Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP) provides eligible First Nations students with funding to access education opportunities at the post-secondary level, including university and college entrance preparation programs. For more information and to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:

• March 31, 2023 – for students applying for the Summer 2023 semester (May-August)
• July 1, 2023 – For students applying for the Fall 2023 & Winter 2024 Semesters (September-April)

The BC First Nations Forestry Council Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program (IFSP) is designed to provide support for First Nations, Inuit or Métis students interested in attending full-time studies in the following applicable areas: Forestry Technician; Natural Resources; Environmental Technology; Business Management; Business Administration; Geographic Information Systems; and Forestry Trades. For more information and how to apply, click here. No Deadline.

Employment Opportunities

• Indigenous Health Research Facilitators (IHRFs) - Northern and Fraser Valley Regions. Under the supervision of the Nominated Principal Applicant, Dr. Jeff Reading, and Network Coordinator, Tara Erb (UVic), as well as working with the BC NEIHR key partners (First Nations Health Authority, Métis Nation BC, and BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres), and the BC SUPPORT Unit, the IHRFs will undertake the following activities: Support Indigenous Communities, Collectives and Organizations (ICCOs); Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization (KSM), Event Coordination, Special Projects and Travel; and Communications and Training. For the full job posting and how to apply, please click here. Applications will be reviewed until positions are filled.

• Assistant Professor, Department of First Nations Studies. The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) invites applications for a Term position in the Department of First Nations Studies at the rank of Assistant Professor, with proposed starting date of July 1, 2023. The successful candidate will be responsible for instruction and course development in the First Nations Studies program. Core duties will include teaching lower- and upper-division undergraduate courses. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications received on or before January 4, 2023, will receive full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
• Lecturer/Assistant Professor, Indigenous Language Revitalization and/or Linguistics, Department of First Nations Studies. The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) invites applications for a Tenure-Track position in the Department of First Nations Studies at the rank of Lecturer or Assistant Professor, with proposed starting date of July 1, 2023. For this position, we seek an individual with specific experience working with Indigenous communities, particularly with regard to language, especially if it relates to the language revitalization and/or linguistics. The successful candidate will be responsible for instruction and course development in the First Nations Studies program. Core duties will include working with Indigenous communities across northern BC in the area of language revitalization, a commitment to community that includes the coordination and facilitation of existing programs in First Nations Language (e.g., certificate, diploma), as well as the development of new initiatives and community partnerships. Teaching responsibilities will include critical undergraduate courses in linguistics, contributing also more broadly to the First Nations Studies undergraduate program. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications received on or before January 4, 2023, will receive full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

• Research Assistant, NEȾOLṈEW̱ Partnership at the University of Victoria. Seeking part-time Research Assistants (RAs) (graduate or upper-year undergrad) to join the team. The RAs will work 8-10 hours per week (hours may vary). To learn more about the partnership, visit https://netolnew.ca/. Location: while based at the University of Victoria campus, Victoria, BC, the work can be done remotely. However, it is preferred that RAs reside in the Greater Victoria area for all/parts of the year. For the job posting, click here. Review of applications will begin on Monday, January 10, 2023, and will continue until the positions are filled.

• Indigenous Collaborative Education, Development, Advocacy and Research (ICEDAR) Project Assistant – 1 student position. ICEDAR is a project funded by UBC Indigenous Strategic Initiatives (ISI) that seeks to contribute to the development of collaborative, ethical and respectful one-on-one relationships led by members of Indigenous communities. Based on the development of an online hub, ICEDAR supports connections among Indigenous Elders, professionals, and community members to strengthen Indigenous leadership and advance collaborative work and research that are relevant to Indigenous communities. ICEDAR is also dedicated to connecting Indigenous leadership and community members with students, researchers, institutions, and community members willing to enact reconciliation by contributing their skills, research, knowledge, and services to meet Indigenous needs and priorities. To learn more about the project, click here. To view the PDF for the posting, click here. For any questions, please contact Áurea Vericat at aurea.vericatrocha@ubc.ca. Deadline: January 16, 2023.

• Director, Indigenous Initiatives. The Director of Indigenous Initiatives will work collaboratively with the Dean’s office (Dean, Associate Dean’s Academic and Research) and will be a member of the Equity, Diversion, Inclusion Committee and other committees that may address Indigenous faculty, staff and student initiatives. The Director, Indigenous Initiatives, provides strategic leadership and direction with regard to Indigenous initiatives and programs in the faculty. For more information and to apply, click here. Ongoing until filled. Applications will start being reviewed mid-January.

• Educational Developer (Indigenous Ways of Knowing). This position primarily undertakes a faculty-facing role in support of decolonial and anti-oppressive approaches to teaching and learning. Drawing on their own teaching and learning practice and experiences, they collaborate on university-wide initiatives to promote Indigenous ways of knowing, decolonizing and Indigenizing of curriculum, programs, and course design. For more information and to apply, click here. Open until filled.

• Indigenous Community Engagement Advisor - Kitimat General Hospital. Reporting to the Health Service Administrator, Kitimat, the Indigenous Community Engagement Advisor advises and guides the Kitimat leadership team in developing and maintaining safe and respectful service practices, patient relations protocols, and support systems for Indigenous, Inuit and Métis patients and families. The Advisor develops and maintains strong links with local Indigenous communities, seeking out their ongoing input and helping to build sustainable bridges between the communities and the health care leadership team. To view the full job posting and to apply, click here. Open until filled.
• For all current job postings, click here.

• Indigenous Patient Navigator. Vancouver Coastal Health is committed to improving the health and access to culturally safe healthcare of the Indigenous people in our region, and we recognize that we all have a contribution to make in reconciliation and healing. VCH’s Indigenous Health team works with staff and physicians across all programs and departments to provide strategic leadership, partner collaboration and community engagement to assist VCH to become a more culturally competent and safe organization. For more information and how to apply, click here. Start Date: As soon as possible.
• To view all open positions, click here.

• Aboriginal Cultural Safety Educator. The Aboriginal Cultural Safety Educator is responsible for developing and implementing Interior Health’s cultural safety framework in a way that is relevant to the values and strategic direction of the organization, with the goal of enhancing the organization’s capacity to deliver health services in a culturally safe manner. The worksite location for this position is flexible and can be located anywhere within British Columbia. To read the full job posting and to apply, click here. Open until filled.
• To explore Interior Health Careers, click here.

Recruiting Indigenous Students to work with the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer on our Unlearning & Undoing White Supremacy Project. We have begun a two-year initiative of unlearning and undoing inherited systemic white supremacy and racism within the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO) that will contribute to development of a plan to address the Government of BC’s foundational commitments to rights and reconciliation across the OPHO’s mandates. Reconciliation requires being trustworthy, creating cultural safety, and making things right with the original inhabitants of these territories. The OPHO’s ongoing efforts to earn and maintain the trust of Indigenous Peoples, as well as racialized communities in BC, center on unlearning and undoing systemic white supremacy and racism inherited from the settler colonial origins of BC’s institutions. Over the next two years we will seek to:

• Illuminate which OPHO structures, policies, practices, norms, and values currently uphold systemic white supremacy and racism.
• Begin to unlearn and undo white supremacy and racism within the OPHO.
• Inform a path forward to uphold, embrace, and monitor progress towards, ‘foundational commitments’ within the OPHO’s work.

We are guided by the wisdom of Dr. Camara Jones, former president of the American Public Health Association, who launched a national campaign against racism. Her ‘Science & Practice of Anti-Racism’ framework outlines three tasks: (1) naming racism; (2) asking, how is it operating here?; and (3) organizing and strategizing to act. There is opportunity for Indigenous student(s) to contribute to elements of this work during their practicum or elective rotation. For more information, contact: kate.jongbloed@gov.bc.ca and daniele.behnsmith@gov.bc.ca

The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is a provincial organization established for the purpose of improving the health outcomes of Indigenous people by supporting and encouraging physically active individuals, families, and communities. The programs and services delivered by I·SPARC are designed to build capacity and increase access to sport, recreation, and physical activity in First Nations, Aboriginal Friendship Centres, Métis Chartered Communities, schools, and other delivery agencies throughout British Columbia.

• General Manager. The ideal candidate will possess an extensive background in human resources management, policy development, and governance practices (not-for-profit). Location: Office space will be established in a location central to the successful candidate. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
• Senior Manager, Communications & Recognition Programs. Working as a member of the senior management team, this individual provides strategic and tactical support and will maintain two distinct roles within the organization; 1) oversight of the organization’s communications and promotions, including media relations, website, social media, digital media, brand identity, and awareness; and 2) oversight of I·SPARC’s Recognition Program – the Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, including the annual nomination and selection processes, and delivery of the six Regional and one Provincial Awards Celebrations. Location: Office space will be established in the Province of BC central to the successful candidate. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
• Sport and Physical Activity Coordinator in the Interior region. The Regional Coordinator is a connector, facilitator and collaborator who engages with local community partners and stakeholder groups in the design and delivery of community-based, culturally-relevant sport, recreation, and physical activity programs for Indigenous people throughout their respective region. The Regional Coordinator is one of six (6) Regional Coordinators across the province who work with their Regional Leads and Regional Action Team to implement a Regional Action Plan to help I·SPARC achieve its Five-Pillar strategy. Location: Office space will be established in a British Columbia location central to the successful candidate. Flexibility in work location with an ability to travel throughout the province to events/forums. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
• For more information on all current employment opportunities, please click here.

Are you passionate about supporting the revitalization of First Nations languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC? First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) is a First Nations-led Crown Corporation that provides grants, training, coaching and resources to communities. We are a team of Indigenous people and allies, working together in pursuit of a vision where First Nations languages, arts and cultures are thriving and passed on to future generations. We offer an open and collaborative work environment guided by Indigenous values and we are seeking people with a passion for arts, heritage, language and technology to join our team.

• Arts Program Administrative Assistant. The Arts Program Assistant reports to the Arts Program Manager to ensure effective administration and smooth operations of all aspects of arts programming. As an integral member of the Arts team, you will work with a dedicated and collaborative team to make meaningful contributions to revitalizing Indigenous art in BC. Location: The majority of work is done in a general office environment in Brentwood Bay. Travel may be required occasionally to conferences and communities in B.C. to support user training and user-research. To view the job posting and how to apply, click here. Open until filled.
• Director of Information Technology. Reporting to the CEO, as the Director of Information Technology (IT), you will provide leadership and direction on information management and information technology systems ensuring alignment with FPCC plans, policies and standards. In this role you will deliver technology-enabled business transformation, and oversee the design, build and maintenance of all business applications. Location: The majority of work is done in a general office environment in Brentwood Bay. May work partially remotely with home office location located within acceptable driving distance. For more information, click here. Open until filled.
• To see all current employment opportunities, click here.

The BCAAFC is the umbrella organization for the Friendship Centres across BC. BC Friendship Centres work to promote, develop and deliver accessible programs and services that support Indigenous peoples living in urban areas and away from home to achieve their vision of health, wellness and prosperity. To see all current job postings, click here.

Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) develops and enhances opportunities for our Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services. Through teamwork, respect, dedication, accountability, integrity, and professionalism, MNBC strives to build a proud, self-governing, sustainable Nation in recognition of inherent rights for our Métis citizens, assisting in the delivery of services based on policy, process, and specified regulations. Become part of the Métis Nation BC team and take an active role in shaping the Métis Nation in BC. To view all available positions, click here.

The FNHA is a trailblazing organization filled with meaningful work and rich with transformative learning opportunities. Here you will find a sense of direction and belonging, with those who share your drive to create change in the world and in yourself – for the better. To see all current job postings, click here.

Training and Events

Tuesday, January 17, 2023, 11:00 am PT. WEKH Indigenous Coffee Break Series - 2023, provides monthly, 1-hour long sessions that connect aspiring and established Indigenous *women entrepreneurs (IWEs) directly with, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, ecosystem support organizations. These sessions aim to bring awareness to the resources and opportunities available to IWEs in various industries, regions, and sectors across the traditional lands and territories that make up what is known as Canada. These sessions are designed to create a safe space for IWEs to ask questions and seek the support they need during any stage of their entrepreneurial journey. *Our use of the term women is inclusive, including cis women, trans women, Two Spirit, genderqueer, gender fluid, and non-binary folks. For more information and to reserve your free spot, click here.

Tuesday, January 17, 2023, 10 am PST. Join this session to learn more about cancer service gaps impacting First Nations in BC and how primary and community health care providers can work towards improving screening care and access. Discussion will focus on culturally safe practice guidance for screening and diagnostic follow up, making space to talk about wholistic care needs, and an overview of relevant Indigenous resources and support services. For more information and to register, click here.

Call for Papers and Unique Opportunities

Pre-announcement: Café Scientifique Program. CIHR is pleased to announce the launch of a refreshed Café Scientifique Program. We are providing preliminary information at this time to allow the research community time to prepare and, where appropriate, co-create proposals with knowledge users, Knowledge Keepers, patients and People with Lived and Living Experience (PWLLE). CIHR will provide funding to design and deliver events known as Cafés that enable knowledge sharing and open, respectful dialogues between the general public and health research experts on health-related issues of public interest. Any researcher or Canadian resident affiliated with an organization or institution can lead or organize Cafes. Please note that applicants can apply to only one pool. The maximum amount per grant is $6,000 for one year. Applications that demonstrate meaningful engagement and co-creation with knowledge users, patients, Indigenous communities and PWLLE will be eligible for an additional supplement of $2,000 per grant, to account for additional costs of co-creation and engagement. These additional costs should be reflected in the proposed budget, in order to be considered for the supplement. Read the announcement here.

Exploring the Experiences of Indigenous Nurses in the Co-creation of Nursing Indicators for an Indigenous Health Nursing Framework. Looking for Indigenous nurses (LPNs, RNs, RPNs, NPs) who have or are currently serving local Indigenous communities, including First Nations, Métis, and Indigenous health organizational populations. Seeking individuals willing to self-identify and share their nursing perspectives to inform the development of an Indigenous Health Nursing scope of practice framework. Please feel free to contact Kelly Davison, Research Coordinator at (778) 789-6448 or email: ihnrchair@uvic.ca.

First Peoples' Cultural Council (FPPC) Grant funding supports communities to revitalize their Indigenous languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC. To view all available grants, click here.

Language Grants:

• The Mentor-Apprentice Program (MAP) - a one-on-one language immersion program that helps people to become fluent speakers by bringing their language into their daily lives at home and on the land: https://fpcc.ca/program/mentor-apprentice-program/. Deadline: January 9, 2023.
• Youth Empowered Speakers (YES) program - investing in our next generation of language leaders with a program that combines mentor-apprentice learning and funding for post-secondary education: https://fpcc.ca/program/yes/. Deadline: January 16, 2023.
• Language Technology Program - provides up to $230,000 in funding plus equipment and training to support language revitalization using technology: https://fpcc.ca/program/ltp/. Deadline: January 24, 2023.
• Language Revitalization Planning Program - provides up to $100,000 in funding plus resources and coaching. Funding can be used for wages, honoraria, equipment, resource materials and more: https://fpcc.ca/program/language-revitalization-planning-program/. Deadline: January 25, 2023.

New heritage repatriation funding for B.C. First Nations. FPCC is accepting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for a new heritage funding opportunity that supports B.C. First Nations' efforts to repatriate their ancestors and cultural treasures. Up to $50000 is available per community or organization. Recipients can use the funding for a variety of repatriation projects, which could include activities such as:

• Community engagement, research and project management
• Conserve, preserve and capture documentation related to repatriation
• Transportation, storage and any infrastructure needed to support the project
• Community ceremonies upon return to a Nation

Apply by January 10, 2023, 5 pm PST. Click here to view and download the EOI submission form and guidelines! If you have any questions or need support with your application, please email Karen Aird, Heritage Manager at karen@fpcc.ca.

The NIB Trust Fund accepts applications for funding for programs aimed at education, healing and reconciliation, and cultural knowledge building. The goal of the NIB Trust Fund is to help First Nations, Métis people and communities address the impacts of the Indian residential school's system, and to provide resourcing to create meaningful opportunities that improve the quality of life for First Nations and Métis people.

• The Group/Organization Call for Applications is now open. We will be accepting funding applications for programs aimed at education, healing and reconciliation. These funds are available to First Nation and Métis governments and organizations. Click here to apply. Application deadline is January 13, 2023, 5:00 PM (EST).

LEVEL BIPOC Grants. The LEVEL BIPOC Grants are flexible, general operating grants of $50,000 for BIPOC-led organizations in BC to support work in racial equity and racial justice. Addressing racial inequities and injustices is important systems change work, and racialized communities are at the forefront of solutions by and for their communities. These grants are intended to be used at the discretion of these organizations based on their need and priorities to ultimately support the aspirations and hopes of BIPOC leaders in their work to advance racial justice. Learn more about why Vancouver Foundation offers LEVEL BIPOC Grants. Stage 1 for LEVEL BIPOC Grants opens on January 23, 2023. Visit the LEVEL BIPOC Grant page to see more key dates.

Indigenous Research Fund (IRF) - intended to increase access to the collections of the BC Archives for Indigenous peoples. The IRF is open to any individuals (youth, student, adult, Elder) who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) and organizations with a mandate to serve the interests of Indigenous peoples. The fund may be used for any/all of the following purposes:

• Travel to the BC Archives (including accommodation/meals)
• Hiring a researcher for work done at the BC Archives
• Other costs associated with work done at the BC Archives as identified by the applicant

This fund is open to Indigenous applicants/organizations only. Up to $1,000 is available. Applications for 2023 will be accepted until January 31, 2023. Send your questions about the application and fund to Info@FriendsBCArchives.ca. For more information, click here.

The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, in partnership with the BC Achievement Foundation, is pleased to announce the third year of the British Columbia Reconciliation Award, recognizing individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering Reconciliation or inspiring others to continue Reconciliation efforts. This award celebrates the promise of a shared path to Reconciliation through the incredible work of leaders from all over British Columbia, whose commitment to recognizing past injustices and healing those wounds will lead us all to a brighter future. A selection committee for the award will include representation by Indigenous Elders, BC First Nations leadership and government partners. Consider and reflect on the efforts of the Elders, leaders, and neighbours in your community who have strived to further Reconciliation. The nomination process is open to any individuals and organizations of Indigenous and non-Indigenous identity who have shown exemplary dedication to asserting truth and Reconciliation initiatives. We encourage you to read the stories of last year’s recipients, with the hope their incredible work will inspire you to nominate the brightest in your own communities. Nominate an individual or organization today on the BC Achievement Foundation website. The nomination period will close on January 20, 2023.

Path Forward Community Fund. The objective is to increase community safety planning and capacity building to ensure the self-determination of Indigenous communities in addressing Indigenous-specific systemic causes of gender-based violence. The distribution of medium-sized grants will be guided by diverse Indigenous people(s) who will serve on the adjudication committee that reflect the various regions, on-and off-reserve, disabled community members, 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities, and Elders and youth, First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and non-status communities. The Path Forward Community Fund will be accessible to First Nations communities, urban / off-reserve communities, Métis and 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities. For more information and to apply, click here. Apply by 11:59 PM PST on Monday, January 23, 2023.

Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC)'s Métis Youth Mental Health and Wellness Initiative is seeking submissions for the fourth issue of Resilient Roots: Métis Mental Health and Wellness magazine! This magazine works to raise Métis voices and perspectives, and to engage in topics around mental health and wellness. This magazine is meant to showcase a diverse range of Métis perspectives, and anybody who is interested to share their voice is encouraged to submit. Submitted content can come in many forms (articles, lived-experience stories, art, poetry, etc.), but must be related to the area of mental health and wellness. The deadline for submissions is January 31st, 2023. All submitted content must meet submission guidelines in order to be accepted for publication. To receive the submission guidelines or learn more, please contact Jillian at jjones@mnbc.ca.

For over thirty years the Northwest Linguistics Conference (NWLC) has been held, on an alternating basis, by linguistics graduate students at four major universities in British Columbia and Washington State: the University of Washington, the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and the University of Victoria. The Department of Linguistics at the University of Victoria is pleased to host the 39th annual Northwest Linguistics Conference. The conference will be a hybrid format, with options to attend in-person in Victoria, British Columbia, or attend virtually over Zoom. The conference will run May 13–May 14, 2023.

Call for Papers: The theme for this year’s conference will be “community-building”. This could include building community between disciplines, between academic and non-academic institutions, between individual language practitioners and workers, or between entire language communities. Specific examples include the coming together of linguists and computer scientists in areas such as computational linguistics, or the collaboration between linguists, language workers, and language communities in areas such as Indigenous language revitalization and reclamation.

Abstracts must be at most two pages long (including data and references). Abstracts should be submitted to EasyChair by February 3, 2023. Notice of acceptance or rejection will be sent by March 6th, 2023. We encourage authors to submit abstracts related to the theme, though we welcome abstracts from all areas of linguistics.

We invite submissions for either oral presentations or posters. Oral presentations will be 20 minutes plus 10 minutes for questions. All presenters will have the opportunity to submit a proceedings paper to be published in a special issue of the Working Papers of the Linguistics Circle, https://journals.uvic.ca/index.php/wplc.

The CEDR Program provides non-repayable funding contributions for clean energy initiatives to eligible remote communities that are off-grid residential regions that rely on diesel fuel for electricity generation. British Columbia has approximately forty-four (44) remote communities, most of which are governed by First Nations. Remote communities will have access to three funding streams to support them as they progress through various stages of their planning and implementation of their decarbonization projects. This will ensure remote communities have financial supports throughout the lifecycle of their energy projects that meets them at the stage where they are at, whether it be at the beginning, early, mid, or late stages of planning or implementation of their decarbonization projects. Prior to starting the enrollment/application process, please ensure that the First Nation or organization as applicant is associated with an eligible remote community. If you have any questions regarding your organization’s eligibility, please contact cedr@nrtf.ca. For the list of eligible applicants, more information and how to apply, visit the website: https://www.newrelationshiptrust.ca/funding/community-energy-diesel-reduction-cedr-program/.

• Drinking Water Safety Program - The FNHA would like to invite you to submit a proposal for your community water awareness day event or activity. The objective of the Our Community, Our Water Grant is to support awareness and preservation of First Nation's community drinking water sources. As part of this grant, the FNHA will provide from $500 to $5,000 (maximum), for BC First Nations Communities to support hosting a Water Awareness Day Event. Successful applicants are able to receive funding for an Our Community, Our Water Day Event once per fiscal year (April 1 to March 31). The event or activity must be held before March 31, 2023. For more information and how to apply, click here.
• Environmental Contaminants Program - supports First Nations projects that explore the link between human health and environmental contaminants. For more information and how to apply, click here.
• Mental Health & Wellness Fund - supports Nations and aggregations of First Nations to come together to plan, design and deliver a full continuum of culture and strength-based mental health and wellness services, including prevention and early intervention. For more information and how to apply, click here.

To find out more or to get involved please visit the National website at https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/ or for pre-registration information, visit https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/pre-registration-information/.

Are you an Indigenous graduate student studying at a BC institution? Submit a selfie of yourself outside, with a short description of yourself (community, institution, program, research interests, etc.) and enter for a chance to win a $50 gift card to your institution’s bookstore! Must be a registered member of the BC NEIHR. Email bcneihr@uvic.ca for more details.

The Northern BC Indigenous Athlete Grants were created through a partnership between Engage Sport North, I·SPARC, and Local Rental Solutions to assist amateur athletes and teams, who are of Indigenous ancestry and residing in Northern British Columbia, in their pursuits in competitive sports. The purpose of the grants is to provide financial assistance to Indigenous athletes to travel and participate in competitive sport. Grants will be awarded to Indigenous athletes competing in any sport, however, individuals or teams benefiting from this grant program must operate or be located in the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality and/or any of the following Regional Districts; Central Coast, Cariboo, North Coast, Kitimat-Stikine, Builkley-Nechako, Fraser-Fort George and Peace River. This is a revolving grant and is reviewed every 8 to 12 weeks. For more information and to apply, click here.

The Doulas for Aboriginal Families Grant Program (DAFGP) provides grants to increase access to full-spectrum doula services for Indigenous families residing in BC (on- and off-reserve). The DAFGP is offered by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres, First Nations Health Authority, and the BC Ministry of Health. The goal of the program is to increase healthy birth outcomes for Indigenous families by removing the cost barrier to accessing doula services. The grant program provides Indigenous families living in BC up to $1,000.00 (maximum) of coverage for full spectrum doula support with each pregnancy. For more information and to apply, click here.

The Support Network for Indigenous Women and Women of Colour (SNIWWOC). SNIWWOC is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to the empowerment of women with food, art, and education. SNIWWOC operates from a holistic and integrative service model that addresses the social, cultural and political realities of women who identify as black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC). Headquartered in Victoria BC, they offer programs and services in BC, Alberta, and Ontario. Click here to learn more, access services and get involved!

IndigiNews is dedicated to covering the news in a way that allows for your stories to be heard, understood and respected. IndigiNews was created through a partnership between Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and The Discourse. The goal of this partnership is two-fold: first, to provide journalism that serves and is driven by what local communities say they want. Second, to experiment with new business models for digital local news that contribute to the long-term sustainability of independent Indigenous news in Canada. Click here to subscribe to the Indiginews Newsletter and/or to sign up for the email course. You can help decolonize the media by becoming an IndigiNews supporter, visit https://indiginews.com/support-us to donate today.

Newsletter Archives

December 1, 2022

November 1, 2022

October 1, 2022

September 1, 2022

August 1, 2022