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Photo credit: Farhan Umedaly, VoVo Productions
ISSUE 102
Clean Energy Project Bolsters First Nations Community
Benefits of Digital Training during a Pandemic
The Career Path of an
Epidemiologist
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CONTENTS
6
An Inside Look into the Career of an Epidemiologist
ISSUE 102
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
SAY MAGAZINE Volume 19, Issue 2 SAY Magazine publishes eight times a year: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, as well as Health and Fitness, Back2School, Economic Development and Education Guide issues. SAY Magazine is published by Spirit of Aboriginal Youth Inc. Mailing Address: Kildonan Place, RPO Box 43084 Winnipeg, MB Canada R2C 5G7 E: info@saymag.com www.saymag.com Publishers Dominick Blais and Kent Brown Editor-in-Chief Danielle Vienneau editor@saymag.com Managing Editor Sarah Ritchie
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SAY Magazine assumes no responsibility for submitted material. SAY Magazine assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or in submitted material. Graphics, photographs, editorial content and other printed material are the property of SAY Magazine and may not be used without the written permission of SAY Magazine. ISSN: 1707-3049 All copy copyright 2018 by SAY Magazine GST: 856627534RT0001
APTN – One of Canada’s Top Employers for a Successful 10 Tips Interview
11 ACCESS Success Story Careers in 12 Promoting the Trades 13
Learning from Home during a Pandemic
19 Arctic Char Pizza Recipe 20 Music Man’s Journey 24 AtoYoung Peru to Meet the 26 Preparing Needs of Clients when the Smoke Clears
Art Director Orli Gelfat - Orli G. Design Ad Sales/Subscriptions Megan Henry subscriptions@saymag.com Printed in Canada Website and Social Media Sphere Media Agency info@spheremediaagency.com Submissions are welcome. Articles, letters, queries, etc. should be sent by email to the editor at editor@saymag.com. Connect with us: www.facebook.com/saymagazine www.twitter.com/SAYMagazine www.instagram.com/say_magazine www.pinterest.ca/SAYMagazine
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Cover Story: The Largest Solar Power Farm in Manitoba
18
Northern Partnership Supports Inuktut Literacy CAREER DEVELOPMENT | 3
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
“Understand the power and value of your lived experience, regardless of your age. You have knowledge and insights that can only be gained through navigating the world as an Indigenous person. In today’s society, that knowledge can be as valuable to employers as a PhD or MBA.”
C
- Paul Robitaille, Manager, Indigenous and Youth Relations, Sustainable Forestry Initiative areer development is an ongoing journey that can be viewed as a cycle, much like life itself. You may be just starting your career path, or may be preparing for a career change—regardless of what stage you’re in, education and training plays a critical role in career planning. Building your skills will help you stay on top of developments in your chosen field and give you that competitive edge in your profession. In this issue, we touch on the benefits of learning from home, which has never been more relevant or welcome. There’s no better time than the present to take advantage of online conferences, webinars and courses that relate to your current job or the job you want. Flip to page 13 to find out why this might be the best time to invest in your education. As always, SAY aims to provide its readers with stories that inspire hope and action. Our cover story features Manitoba’s largest solar power farm in Fisher River Cree Nation—a replicable green energy project offering new economic opportunities and jobs for community members. Find out how W Dusk Energy Group Inc. helped develop the project from the early stages to completion, starting on page 14.
Looking for advice on career planning? There are some incredible online resources available to support you, especially if you are a student or in the early stages of deciding what your occupational future might look like. Through our research, we found the BC’s Career Guide for Indigenous People (workbc.ca) provides a great framework for career planning and development, offering resources, tips, checklists and questionnaires that will help you narrow down your career path—a relevant tool no matter where you live. Ever dreamed of a career in health that uses data and statistics to inform governmentregulated decisions? Then look no further! On page 6, epidemiologist Cynthia Carr tells all about this lesser-known healthcare field and the path she took to get there. (Tip: Current career trends predict jobs in healthcare will be the most in-demand jobs over next few years.) If you think outside of the box, you can apply many of the suggested tools and resources in this issue to aid in mapping out your professional future. When the world settles a bit and restrictions are lifted, try volunteering or joining an association related to your career interests, and network whenever possible. Best of luck on your journey! Danielle Vienneau, Editor-in-Chief Next Issue: Summer 2020
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2020 Now until JUN 12
National Talent Search: Canada’s Next Top Indigenous Superstar Deadline to enter is June 12 Open to all Indigenous artists of all ages in Canada Enter by sending a brief bio and 30 second acapella video to darrenrossagency@gmail.com
JUN 21
Now until JUL 19
2021 Indspire Awards Nominations Deadline to enter is July 19 indspire.ca/events/indspire-awards/2021-nominations
Diversity Procurement Fair 2020 (Virtual Conference) Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council's Annual Conference camsc.ca/events
MAY 9-31
JUL 22-26
Broadcast of the 2020 Indspire Awards 8:00PM / 8:30PM NT Broadcast on APTN, CBC, CBC Radio and CBC GEM indspire.ca/events/indspire-awards
JUL 21-23
The Native Wellness Power Hour Daily at 12PM PST Native Wellness Institute nativewellness.com
Gimli Film Festival (Online) Free GFF Live Stream gimlifilm.com/gff-online
MAY 26
sākihiwē festival Treaty One Territory Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada sakihiwe.ca
Free Webinar at 10:00-11:30AM PST Indigenous-Led Planning and Responses to COVID-19 and Other Pandemics Indigenous Research Support Initiative The University of British Columbia irsi.ubc.ca/events
AUG 28-30
JUN 4
Free Webinar at 10:00-11:30AM PST Covering COVID: Pandemic Reporting in Indigenous Contexts Indigenous Research Support Initiative The University of British Columbia irsi.ubc.ca/events
SAY has made every effort to ensure our calendar of events is up to date; however, we encourage you to check event websites regularly for updates due to interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. CAREER DEVELOPMENT | 5
CAREER PROFILE
Epidemiology – The Career You Probably Never Knew Existed By Cynthia Carr, Epidemiologist
A few months ago during a casual conversation, I was asked, “What do you do exactly?” This was not a unique question. I am an epidemiologist, and before this very challenging COVID-19 crisis, almost no one (including my parents) knew what I did. Unfortunately, the term epidemiology has become all too common due to COVID-19; however, on the plus side, maybe through this some of you will have discovered a new potential career in community health. Origins of Epidemiology
Epidemiology focuses on finding patterns of disease by looking at people, place and time. Everyone knows John Snow, right? No, not the hero from Game of Thrones… I mean Dr. John Snow, who is considered the “father of epidemiology”. In the 1800s, the infectious disease cholera became a major health threat, killing many people. There was a terrible outbreak in London, England, around 1854. People thought the disease was from the noxious-smelling air. But Dr. Snow
questioned why only people from a certain area of London were getting sick when the air smelled terrible everywhere in the city. He started to talk to people who were sick so that he could determine what they all had in common. He noticed they all lived or worked in the same area... and they all got their drinking water from the Broad Street Pump. The water in the pump looked and tasted just fine, but it carried the very dangerous parasite that caused cholera. His findings led to changes in water safety and sanitation around the world, saving millions of lives!
This is an example of a serious health risk that we cannot see or taste. Just like viruses such as COVID-19, they are difficult to deal with because people don’t know when or where they come in contact with them until they become infected or sick. 66 || CAREER CAREER DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT
Photos Cynthia Carr took in London (2019) of the original Broad Street Pump, cause of the cholera outbreak.
CAREER PROFILE
What Does an Epidemiologist Do?
Epidemiologists work to find what is the source of an illness. That is, we work in public health as “medical detectives” to find out what causes illness so that we can prevent it. We use this information to do many things, such as: Planning ahead to prevent illness by encouraging vaccinations, and watching health or illness developments in other countries. Developing public health messages and support programs; for example, proving the link between smoking and the high risk of developing lung cancer and heart disease later in life, which led to educational campaigns, support programs and the banning of cigarette advertisements. Developing public health and safety policies, such as safe driving practices. Epidemiologists are the ones who collected data to show the much higher rates of injuries and deaths among people driving too quickly or not wearing seat belts.
What Do I Need to Study to Become an Epidemiologist?
There is a wide range of people who become epidemiologists, and they work in many different areas. No matter your background, you do need a minimum of a Master’s degree in this field, even if you are already a doctor. My background is a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Health Policy. I fell in love with epidemiology and completed the Master of Science in Community Health and Epidemiology at Queen’s University. Other students in my class were doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, pharmacists and students who had a science background. I was probably one of the only ones without a really hard science background, but I did have several statistics courses, which you definitely need to get into this field.
What Kind of Job Can I Get?
The opportunities in this field are endless. You can work for your community to col-
lect evidence to support funding requests for health programs and services. You can help develop those programs and then use data to show if the programs helped people get healthy or stay healthy. There are many epidemiologists that work for the government, for the World Health Organization, for hospitals, community care and university research—the list goes on and on. You could be a doctor who focuses on researching illness prevention instead of treating patients; you could be a pharmacist who wants to conduct research into new vaccines or drugs to treat illness; you could be a medical health officer who focuses on health prevention and education. All these fields need epidemiologists!
Find Your Passion
My focus has always been working with communities and programs to look at health risk factors and then find solutions. My passion is using my education to learn about what matters most to community members, to collect the data to show why it really is a priority issue. This could be survey data, interviews, and then data about how you use medical travel, where you go for services, what would help to have in the community, and how lives are affected by access to healthy food and recreational activities. Do you enjoy data, statistics and making graphs? Are you excited by figuring out puzzles and patterns? Do you like the idea of answering questions that can impact the health and well-being of others? If you said yes to these questions and you like the idea of working in health (but are not so sure about blood and guts) then epidemiology might be for you! You can make a real difference by joining the network of public health professionals in preventing illness so that we can all live the longest, healthiest and happiest lives possible. Cynthia Carr is an epidemiologist and a principal consultant with EPI Research Inc. For more than 25 years, she has been using data to support program planning, evaluation and knowledge exchange. For more info, visit epiresearch.ca. CAREER DEVELOPMENT | 7
EMPLOYER PROFILE
Recognizing One of Canada’s Top Employers
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By Emelia Fournier, Communications Coordinator, APTN or the eighth consecutive year, According to Owen APTN has earned the title of one of Pantos, “the ties to Canada’s Top 100 Employers, and the community and one of Manitoba’s Top Employers good intentions behind every decision” for the 12th consecutive year. are reasons he enjoys According to its employees, these titles are working at APTN. well-deserved. “The work environment at APTN is very friendly, and you can always Community relations coordinator Sherry ask for advice, whether it is for work or Meilleur said, “APTN is a top employer personal support,” said programming ad- because of its caring workplace and the many opportunities it offers its employministrative assistant Rochelle Guiboche. ees.” These opportunities include annual APTN joined the broadcasting indus- tuition subsidies so APTN employees can try in 1999 as a small network with big grow within the network. dreams. More than 20 years later, APTN has produced original news programs, Seasoned journalists working for APTN say helped start arms-length companies, gal- the network’s mandate to share Indigenous vanized the Indigenous production in- stories through Indigenous voices is appardustry and launched its own streaming ent in its news programming. service, APTN lumi. “Working at APTN is unique because you Throughout these accomplishments, APTN can see the news from an Indigenous pernever stopped prioritizing its talented, spective. I’ve worked with other major Canadian news networks, and you can tell the hard-working staff. difference between our coverage and theirs APTN is a great employer for young on the same story,” explained Edmonpeople. Just ask recent grads Owen Pantos, ton-based video journalist Chris Stewart. marketing coordinator, and Danielle Gagnon, sponsorship and public relations Being part of an organization that provides a platform for Indigenous Peoples is coordinator.
APTN understands that employees require a worklife balance and that employees will only be happy and productive when they’re properly treated, compensated and recognized. – Danielle Gagnon
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a source of pride for many APTN employees. This resonates with digital librarian Gwen Lingelbach: “I feel APTN is unique in the fact that it is Canada’s first national broadcaster for Indigenous Peoples, and it shares their stories in an effort to create understanding and respect. APTN has a strong social conscience.” At the heart of it all, APTN’s audience is the raison d’être of the network. Meilleur shared a stirring memory of her time at APTN: “During the 2010 Olympics, an Elder called me, crying. When I asked him why he was upset, he said, ‘I’m not upset! I’m sitting here on the couch with my grandson watching hockey in my language!’ This man was a residential school survivor whose language was stripped from him. He never thought in his wildest dreams that he would live to see something like that.” Underlying the company’s treatment of employees and corporate culture is a commitment to uplifting Indigenous Peoples across Canada and fostering connection between all Canadians. Promotions producer Natalie Batkis summed this up perfectly: “We don’t only provide entertainment, we also provide healing in so many ways.”
CAREER DEVELOPMENT | 9
SHORT TAKE
Six Tips for a Successful Interview By S. Ritchie
It’s such a great feeling when you finally receive that job interview you’ve been hoping for. Of course, anxiety can also come along with the excitement. You get one shot at making a good impression, and what if you don’t do well? Interviews are stressful for even practiced individuals. Fortunately, there are several things you can do before, during and after an interview to make sure you enter prepared and leave confident.
1
Do your research.
Before your interview, deepdive into the company’s website, social media pages and press releases. Develop a clear idea of what they are all about, and what new projects or initiatives they have going on. Demonstrating a well-rounded knowledge of the company during your interview shows you are interested in the company and invested in its success. Plus, the more you know, the easier it will be to explain how you will be a good fit.
4
Anticipate behaviourbased questions.
A behaviour-based interview is when you are asked to describe specific instances where you demonstrated a certain skill or asset. For example, you might be asked to describe a time when you had to work under a tight deadline. Try to anticipate what behaviours the hiring manager will be looking for by looking for key attributes in the job description, and prepare one or two examples for each quality or skill (and don’t forget to practice).
2
Prepare for common interview questions.
There are countless books, videos and articles available to help prepare for common interview questions, such as “Tell us about yourself ” and “Why are you interested in this role with our company?”. Create a list of questions you think are likely to be asked, and prepare your answers ahead of time. This way, you will be able to confidently and effectively answer them.
5
Think of your own questions.
It’s absolutely okay─and encouraged─for you to have at least one or two questions for your potential employer. This shows you are seriously thinking about how you would fit into the role. Take some time to think about what’s important to you. For example, if you are unable to travel for work, you should find out if a certain amount of travel is required before accepting the position. Some other questions could be “Can you explain what an average day/week would look like?” or “How would my performance be measured?”.
Everyone who is successful must have dreamt of something. - Maricopa Proverb
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3
Practice delivering your answers.
It’s one thing to know exactly what you are going to say in your head and an entirely other thing to actually say it out loud. The more you practice your responses, the more clear and confident you will sound. Enlist a friend or family member to help you practice; record yourself and play it back; or interview yourself in the mirror.
6
Send a thank you note.
Send the interviewer a follow-up email 24-48 hours after the interview thanking them for the opportunity and emphasizing your continued interest in the position. The note should be customized to refer to something you discussed during the interview. This is also your chance to mention anything you forgot during the interview that could help them make their decision.
SUBMISSION
Ready to Succeed:
Chantelle Davis Last fall, Chantelle Davis (Nisga’a) started working for Aarm Dental Group. She accepted the dental reception position after graduating from the Vancouver Community College’s (VCC) Indigenous Dental Reception Coordinator Program, a program redesigned in partnership with ACCESS (Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society).
“I had other job offers, but I knew my worth. I wasn’t accepting anything less,” said Davis. “I now have financial freedom and am better able to support my family.” She added the support provided by VCC and ACCESS helped her be interview and career ready. This fully-funded, nine-month Indigenous program starts with ACCESS-delivered Essential Skills that strengthen proficiencies like reading, oral communication and
working with others. Essential Skills prepares students to immediately tackle course materials with the confidence to create a classroom where you feel like family.
I now have financial freedom and am better able to support my family. The program was limited to 12 students and included Indigenous elements, such as setting desks in a circle and dedicating a day to cultural activities. “Cultural Friday” began with a smudge, followed by an activ-
ity like going to a gallery or on a canoe trip, or making drums and cedar hats. “The smaller class meant that when I got distracted, VCC was able to bring me back in,” said Davis. “I’ve been in courses where there were 300 students; it was easy to fall through the cracks.” Fewer students and the flexibility to deliver the program to meet student needs enabled Michele Rosko, the program’s lead instructor, to offer individual attention. Today, nine graduates are working, and one is on maternity leave. ACCESS Director of Programs Gary McDermott noted, “This partnership proves a course can be reformatted to Indigenous standards ensuring Indigenous Peoples succeed in the classroom and workplace.” Learn more at: vcc.ca and accessfutures.ca.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT | 11
RESOURCE
Careers in the Skilled Trades
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n 2019, the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF) published a report exploring the experiential learning opportunities available for Indigenous high school students interested in skilled trades. Experiential education provides important introductory opportunities to learn about the skilled trades, use hand tools and equipment, connect to employers and gain initial work experience. There are three main types of programming—trades exploration, trades and technology courses, and youth apprenticeship programs—offered by schools, Indigenous education and training organizations, non-profits, unions, industry associations and colleges throughout the country, many of which are designed specifically for Indigenous youth.
According to the report, one of the main barriers holding Indigenous students back from entering these programs is a lack of awareness of their existence. And so, SAY would like to share a brief summary of each type of program outlined in the report in the hopes that it will help youth discover a meaningful career in the trades.
Trades Exploration Programs
Open to all students, trades exploration programs help introduce elementary and high school students to the different career opportunities available in the trades, along with future trades and technology classes, or apprenticeships. Several provinces and organizations have implemented programs, such as try-a-trade workshops, camps, conferences, presentations, tours and job fairs. Skills Manitoba started inschool presentations in Northern Manitoba in 2013, and since then they’ve seen participation in high school apprenticeship programs increase by 39 per cent.
Trades and Technology Classes/ Co-ops/Work Placements
According to the 2015 National Apprenticeship Survey, 1 in 5 Indigenous students participate in high school co-op programs. In these programs, students complete hands-on learning in a shopstyle classroom, such as woodworking 12 12| |CAREER CAREERDEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT
or automotive, and may complete co-op or work placements with employers for high school credit. Indigenous students who participate in trades and technology classes and/or co-ops/work placements demonstrate better attendance at school, increased motivation to learn math and improved employability skills. Some programs help students develop real-world skills through culturally-relevant activities. Louise Dean High School in Alberta, for example, incorporates beading, sewing moss-bags or ribbon-skirts, and cooking traditional Indigenous food in its culinary and fine arts programming.
Youth Apprenticeship Programs
Most provinces and territories have a high school Youth Apprenticeship Program for students aged 16 years or older. Although
program requirements are unique, in general, credits towards a high school diploma are earned while working for an employer in a skilled trade. Students may even graduate high school with the first level of their apprenticeship completed. Fifteen per cent of 2015 National Apprenticeship Survey respondents reported being in a Youth Apprenticeship Program. These programs also help develop valuable employability skills, such as punctuality and workplace communication. This information has been extracted from the CAF report Promoting Careers in the Skills Trades to Indigenous Youth in Canada, written by Emily Arrowsmith, Ph.D., and funded by Indigenous Services Canada. To read the full report, visit caf-fca.org/research-reports.
EDUCATION
Learning from Home
Why Now Might Be the Best Time to Invest in Your Education
W By D. Vienneau
hile restrictions and fear caused by the current pandemic have forced many of us into lockdown and self-isolation, we can choose to focus on some of the positives that have come out of staying at home: increased family-time, extensive spring cleaning, time spent outdoors and the opportunity to learn something new.
on course material as needed. Learning in this way develops discipline and essential time-management skills—both vital skills essential in the workforce.
E-learning opportunities have increased exponentially over the last decade, enabling people all over the world to learn at their own pace, and earn credits, certifications and even degrees from the comfort, and in today’s reality the safety, of their own home. The benefits of online education and training have become increasingly important to ensure ongoing growth and development. There are many digital learning platforms, and many institutions across Canada and the United States have responded to the disruption caused by COVID-19 by offering a larger variety of online courses, some even at no cost to the learner.
• www.classcentral.com has a database of online courses offered by a variety of universities from around the world (some of which are listed below). Search by subject or popularity. You can also access courses about the pandemic. • www.coursera.org is another site where you can seek out free courses you can take anytime, anywhere.
Benefits of Digital Learning
• Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education is an online course offered at the University of British Columbia. The class provides insight into how Indigenous histories, perspectives and world-views impact learning.
There’s no question that one of the largest benefits of online learning right now is that it offers development from a distance with no face-to-face interaction. Assuming you have access to a digital device and the internet, e-learning is convenient and generally affordable. Because e-learning allows for flexibility, you can learn at your own pace, spending as much or as little time
Free Online Courses
SAY has compiled a short list of education courses being offered at no cost for a limited time. It is in no way a comprehensive list, but we hope it gets you started.
• Indigenous Canada is a 12-lesson online course offered by the University of Canada in Alberta. The course explores Indigenous histories and contemporary issues in Canada.
• In the US, Oregon State is offering its Intro to Master Gardener program and Vegetable Gardening online course. • Yale University currently offers The Science of Well-Being and Introduction to Classical Music. • Finances on the brain? University of California, Berkeley is offering financial education with its How to Save Money: Make Smart Financial Decisions course. There are a multitude of digital courses available at varying costs and levels of certification, from academia to gardening, First Aid to music education and culinary arts. We encourage you to research courses connected to your interests; you may be surprised what opportunities exist. University websites are a great place to start. There’s no better time than the present to invest in your education, because if not now, then when?
• The University of Toronto currently offers an online course called Aboriginal Worldviews and Education.
CAREER CAREER DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT || 13 13
COVER STORY
Solar Project Bolsters First Nations Community
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he first Indigenous-owned solar power farm is now up and running in Fisher River Cree Nation—the largest clean energy project of its kind in Manitoba. The seven-acre solar farm is the result of seven years of planning between Chief and council and W Dusk Energy Group Inc.—an Indigenous-owned firm located in British Columbia, Canada.
Photos courtesy of Farhan Umedaly, VoVo Productions
A project of this magnitude represents not only the redesign of Indigenous communities, but what modern urban and community planning should encompass in a post-COVID-19 era— self-sufficiency. Thankfully, construction of the solar farm was completed before the COVID-19 lock-down came into effect. In a recent interview, President of W Dusk Energy Group David Isaac explained that it is only in the past few years that Solar PV (photovoltaic) has become the most economic form of renewable energy to construct. “Fisher River has been a leader nationally in the early adoption of renewable energy and previously installed a community-wide geo-exchange program,” said Isaac. “It is fitting that they are leading the charge in Manitoba and nationwide, with the largest and first Indigenousowned solar farm.” This project is made possible by funding from the Ministry of Western Economic Diversification and through self-financing by Fisher River Economic Development Corporation. Keep reading to learn how this green energy project has empowered a community with the promise of a bright and self-sufficient future in our exclusive interview with Chief David Crate and David Isaac of W Dusk.
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"Solar is beautiful in that it harvests abundant and reliable sunlight. It is generated locally in the community and will provide revenue for at least 30 years." – David Isaac
COVER STORY
SAY: How is this type of green energy project unique? Isaac: Much of the success of this project is built off these initial efforts and through strong community planning. Besides the positive impact on the community’s built environment and the fact that this project will provide a dependable source of power and income for decades to come, this project is unique in that it was built with, by and for, the community. It has proven to be a new model for community and economic development. The Fisher River Cree Nation solar farm also represents a seismic shift away from an antiquated, Indian Act-designed community to a modern, more self-sufficient community. SAY: How does a green energy project like this align with First Nations ideologies? Isaac: Solar energy is a beautiful technology. When designed properly, it harmonizes with the landscape of the universe bridging a star to a community with a near infinite energy resource. It is an example of beautification, does not require fuel and needs next to zero maintenance. It does not violate the laws of nature or the environment. Unlike neocolonial, fossil-fuel technologies, it does not compromise the environment. It is consistent with our cultural beliefs and values, namely, to respect Mother Earth. It is a technology that our ancestors would have chosen. When you’re involved with this type of technology where it resonates with cultural values and philosophies, and doesn’t harm the land, there’s something beyond just electrons that occurs in the community. That’s the magic that we [at W Dusk] love to witness and be a part of.
SAY: This is not the first green energy project Fisher River has undertaken. Tell us about the geothermal energy initiative. Chief Crate: Fisher River, along with neighbouring community Peguis First Nation, took part in a geothermal pilot project, and we just wrapped up year four of that initiative. Members in the community were trained on geothermal installation, and it took off from there. Fifty per cent of the homes in the community are now powered by geothermal energy. Some of our larger facilities are also geothermal,
including the school, laundromat and fitness centre. It created new jobs in the community, and it saves families a lot of money on energy bills. SAY: Please explain how the solar farm in Fisher River works. Isaac: This project’s size, or maximum capability—like top-speed for a car—is a megawatt, or one million watts. There are almost 3,000 solar panels in the Fisher River Solar Farm. Each of the panels converts sunlight (photons), that has taken just over eight minutes to cross the solar system, into electricity for your home. Every year, the farm will produce enough energy to power 250 homes. Each solar panel faces the sun, due south, and receives light just like the leaves of a plant or tree. The panels consist of one or two layers of a semiconducting material, silicon, which is one of the most abundant elements on Earth. When light shines on the silicon in the panels, electrons are bounced into channels building an electric field. As Arthur C. Clarke put it once, “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” CAREER DEVELOPMENT | 15
COVER STORY
Our peoples are poised to lead Turtle Island into a new economic era and relationship with the elements. This modern technology is in resonance with traditional First Nation and Indigenous values and beliefs. This is the technology of self-sufficiency, environmental stewardship and decolonization. – David Isaac
Chief Crate: This energy is then converted from direct to alternating current so that it can be connected to the Manitoba Hydro electric grid. The community has an agreement with Manitoba Hydro to purchase power generated from the solar farm. SAY: How has this project benefited the members of Fisher River Cree Nation? Chief Crate: A dozen members of the Fisher River Cree Nation community, none of whom had previously worked on solar energy technology, were trained to North American Solar Academy Certificate Level as Solar PV Installers. This means they can work anywhere in North America on such projects. These community members installed the 3,000 panels for the solar farm in a combined five days, which is a major achievement by any standard. They also constructed the solar racking, prepped the site, as well as constructed the observation deck. 16 | CAREER DEVELOPMENT
SAY: What is the economic impact of a project like this? Isaac: A project of this scope can generate up to a six-figure annual return, which will go right back into the community. These contracts are typically 20-25 years and are very scalable. Beyond this initial project, the trained members are primed to become solar installers for future planned
phases, such as a community solar rooftop project or the possible expansion of the current farm. The solar farm will grow with the community and can potentially generate enough energy to export power to the United States or to other provinces. This type of project also positions Fisher River in the future economy, which is
COVER STORY
unfolding now. There are now more jobs in cleantech than oil and gas. The world economy is dramatically shifting to more sustainable models of development. The electric grid is moving towards a decentralized, distributed grid. That is, locally generated and consumed power derived from wind and solar. As long as the sun continues to shine, the community will have an economic return through a power purchase agreement that is locked to inexhaustible and abundant natural elements, not to an unstable, fossil fuel economy that is entangled with colonization and imperialism. SAY: Are there any plans for Fisher River to take on additional green energy projects in the future? Chief Crate: We are in the process of doing a community assessment—looking at what would be a good fit for the community. There are discussions around infrastructure, battery storage and a central district heating system for the community which could be a combo of geothermal, wind and solar. The end goal is to create a number of energy sources for the community, making it more sustainable. Along with that comes job creation and employment opportunities in maintaining that infrastructure.
After learning so much from Chief Crate and Isaac, it is clear these types of community-owned renewable energy projects are vital for the economic and social development of remote Indigenous communities. Not only do they provide a measure of self-reliance in terms of energy supply, they are also a source of empowerment and community pride. “The message I want to get across to other communities is that planning is key—the key to anything that you do,” said Chief Crate.
“What we are doing here in Fisher River can be duplicated anywhere, really. I hope to see more green energy initiatives happening across the country in the near future." Isaac further confirmed, “There is a new model for every First Nation and Indigenous community across Turtle Island. With projects such as this, new workforces are being developed, and the reservation is becoming a place of innovation and a truer reflection of the culture. The future is happening now.”
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RESOURCE
Online Resources Support Inuktut Literacy Development Adapt. Innovate. These are words that many people and businesses have had to embrace on a much grander scale over the past few months as the current pandemic causes a major shift in our systems, businesses and daily lives. Nationwide school closures have brought to light many societal and economic issues, one of the most apparent being interrupted learning and access to educational materials for much of the world’s student population.
I
n response to the current COVID-19 crisis and the system-wide school closures in Nunavut, Canada, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) and Inhabit Media have partnered to launch online resources encouraging ongoing Inuktut literacy development. In a world where digital learning is at the forefront, both organizations are committed to ensuring that Inuit children and youth have access to high-quality Inuktut books and educational resources to support language learning from home.
“NTI is proud to contribute to Inuktut learning, connecting families and enabling all of us to stay at home as much as possible,” said NTI President Aluki Kotierk. NTI is working with Inhabit Media and Inuit educators to create new educational resource packages, some of which include literacy activities and downloadable audio books, to support Inuktut literacy development. Each week this crisis continues, new books and resources are added to support Nunavummiut (residents of Nunavut), ensuring their language remains strong. “We want to support learning from home, and to encourage people to use this time to come together and strengthen our language,” said Louise Flaherty, Co-Founder of Inhabit Media. Thanks to NTI and Inhabit Media, a variety of Inuktut books, for toddlers to teens, are readily available online at nti-inhabit.com, along with tips on teaching kids how to read.
About Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
NTI coordinates and manages Inuit responsibilities set out in the Nunavut Agreement and ensures that the federal
Inuktut books and educational resources support language learning from home.
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and territorial governments fulfill their obligations.
About Inhabit Media
Incorporated in 2006, Inhabit Media is the first Inuit-owned, independent publishing company in the Canadian Arctic. Its goal is to promote and preserve the stories, knowledge and talent of the Arctic, while also supporting research in Inuit mythology and the traditional Inuit knowledge of Nunavummiut. For over a decade, Inhabit Media has worked with Elders and storytellers from across the Canadian Arctic to ensure that the region’s unique Inuit oral history is recorded and not lost to future generations.
FOOD
Recipes that Celebrate
T raditional and Modern Food
SAY is excited to share a sneak peek of Inhabit Media’s upcoming cookbook Niqiliurniq: Recipes from Igloolik (to be released this fall). Created by five women (Micah Arreak, Annie Désilets, Lucy Kappianaq, Glenda Kripanik, and Kanadaise Uyarasuk) from Nunavut, this cookbook “was born from the idea of creating bonds between country food and healthy store-bought products”. Filled with a variety of meal ideas and treats, this cookbook is a resource meant to inspire people to be more hands-on, cooking meals from scratch while using simple and
affordable ingredients. It not only provides creative alternatives to pre-packaged food, but it also shares nutritional knowledge. As many more home-cooked meals have been made these past few months, maybe some of you have discovered your inner chef, or maybe you’re struggling to come up with yet another meal idea. Regardless of your culinary skills and motivations, we hope you find inspiration in the following pizza recipe directly from the pages of Niqiliurniq: Recipes from Igloolik, courtesy of Inhabit Media.
Arctic Char Pizza
Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Serves: 4
Homemade pizza is healthier, cheaper and fresher than store-bought pizza. You can add all your favourite ingredients and let the kids choose their toppings.
INGREDIENTS
4 pieces of pita bread 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 lb fresh, frozen, or smoked Arctic char fillet, finely sliced 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated 4 mushrooms, sliced 1/2 red onion, finely sliced Dill, fresh or dry, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste 1 lemon, cut into wedges
STEPS
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. 2. Line up the pita bread on a baking tray and spread sour cream evenly on top of each one. 3. Add the fish first, then the cheese, mushrooms and onion. Sprinkle with dill, salt and pepper. 4. Bake pizzas for about 10 minutes on the middle rack. Broil for 2–3 minutes near the end to lightly colour the cheese. Let cool for 5 minutes. 5. Serve with lemon wedges.
VARIATIONS
The pita bread can be replaced by any kind of flatbread, such as naan or thin pizza dough.
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MUSIC
Anachnid Offering a glimpse into singer-songwriter Anachnid’s spiritual universe, Dreamweaver is a marriage of emotion and sound—a blend of electro-pop, trap, indie, soul and hip hop, and animal sounds, drum and flute, evocative of her ancestral cultures. This is the multidisciplinary Oji-Cree and Mi’kmaq artist’s first album.
Based out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, “Anachnid” (woman from the sky who falls on earth) is a hybrid between her name, Anna-Khesic Kway Harper, and her totem animal, the spider. It’s what she uses as her stage name to channel her ancestors and creativity. She is a contemporary Indigenous artist, and just as unique and versatile as a spider. Anachnid represents diversity in music—mixing traditional sounds with technology, exploring different genres and adapting to the roots of other artists with whom she performs. Spring 2019, Anachnid won Indigenous Songwriter of the Year at the Indigenous Music Awards for her first-ever single “Sky Woman”, a stand-out amongst nearly 200 other artists from across Canada. In an interview with Digital Drum, she had the following advice for aspiring artists: “Don’t let someone else’s behaviour be an indicator of your own worth. Surround yourself with friends who motivate you to do these projects. It’s okay to fail because that’s what makes you brave. That’s what makes you able to surpass your fears.” With a promising career ahead of her, Anachnid represents the voice of a new generation of Indigenous creators—strong, emancipated and non-negotiable.
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2019 Indigenous Songwriter of the Year
MUSIC
Mike Paul
Mike Paul is a folk singer-songwriter and storyteller of the Innu First Nation. His music, rich in emotional vocals, acoustic guitar and hand drumming, vibrates to the rhythm of Mother Earth and the people who inhabit her.
Paul was born in Mashteuiatsh (PointeBleue), an Innu community located on the banks of the Pekuakamit (Lac Saint-Jean), located on the Nitassinan traditional territory in the province of Quebec, Canada. For the past 25 years, he has been a pioneer of his community in the music industry. His debut album kasinu auenitshe ute assitsh, meaning “all living beings on this earth”, was released in 2008 under his previous stage name, Mike O’Cleary. In 2019, his second album Origine was nominated for Best Inuit, Indigenous Language, or Francophone Album at the Indigenous Music Awards, and the same album earned Paul a nomination for Indigenous Songwriter of the Year at the 2020 Canadian Folk Music Awards. This talented musician is also an activist for the environment and an advocate for the self-determination of Indigenous Peoples. His evocative lyrics, sung in Innu, French and English, combine with echoing drum beats to help us rediscover a thousandyear-old vibrant culture. It’s a heroic act to sing in your own tongue, expressed Paul. It’s a form of resistance to preserve your heritage and culture (paraphrased from original quote in French). A true nomad of modern times, Paul travels the roads and oceans to present his culture and compositions. He has performed in Europe and across Canada; participated in many live broadcast programs, including Makusham (hosted by Florent Vollant), Radio Canada’s Samedi de sorti and APTN’s Indigenous Day Live 2018; and composed soundtracks for TV shows, such as Mishkuenita on APTN. Paul is currently working on his next album, which is expected to be released in 2021. CAREER DEVELOPMENT | 21
MUSIC
The NorthStars Heavy hitters in the Northern Cree music scene, The NorthStars are a hip hop duo from Nemaska, Quebec, Canada. Through an authentic approach that fuses gritty dark beats with bright acoustic pop notes, members Elton J. Salt and Garry Jolly aim to make change and inspire a generation through their music.
The NorthStars were catapulted into the Canadian music scene in 2012 when their song “Our River” gained significant traction and received considerable media coverage, including attention from CBC North, James Bay Cree Communications Radio and Champ FM Radio. This led to multiple tours of the Cree Nation touring circuit and steady exportation into the national music market. In 2014, The NorthStars connected and collaborated with N’we Jinan, a travelling music studio program, to create songs and videos for N’we Jinan’s Volume 1, a music project that featured over 70 Cree Nation youth.
In 2015, The NorthStars released their debut album Dreams, which climbed to the ninth spot on SoundCloud in the Canadian Hip Hop Category and received over ten thousand streams via their SoundCloud page. The duo was long-listed for a Juno Award and nominated for Best Music Video at the American Indian Film Insti22 22 || CAREER CAREER DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT
tute for their first single off Champions. The NorthStars’ music has also been featured on APTN television shows, such as Blackstone and Mohawk Girls. Their latest project Nightmares is raw and emotionally charged, and features 11 songs that introduce a refined and mature evolution of The NorthStars. The album recently rose to #3 on the Apple Music Hip Hop Charts, and their first single “Monsters” is currently charting on NCI FM’s National Indigenous Music Countdown. Nightmares provides a contrasting view of the struggles and daily challenges the duo and their community face. Filled with movement and motivating hooks, this album offers listeners ballads that speak of home and sacrifice, alongside energizing dance hits. Seeking to uplift and spark change with their music, The NorthStars invite their audience to remove the proverbial blindfold and see things for what they are.
MUSIC
NADJIWAN The latest release from multi-award nominated Indigenous artist NADJIWAN was recorded August 2019 in a cabin at Dog Lake in Ontario (Canada) during a break from the NADJIWAN - 25th Anniversary Generations Tour. The Dog Lake Sessions is about loss, but also how we can lift ourselves up from the feeling of hopelessness.
The man behind the project and music is Marc Nadjiwan Meriläinen. Born in Northern Manitoba and raised in the untamed beauty of Northwestern Ontario, Meriläinen knew from an early age he would perform music. After graduating from the Music Industry Arts program at Fanshawe College (London, Ontario), Meriläinen returned to Thunder Bay, Ontario, where he began collaborating with other First Nation musicians. In 1995,
NADJIWAN released his first album titled Brother, which achieved much success in both Canada and the United States. Brother rose to number one on the Aboriginal Voices Top 10 and was nominated for Best Rock Album at the Native American Music Awards. NADJIWAN’s career has taken him on tour all across Canada and the United States, including performances at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, Mariposa Folk Festival, Northern Lights Festival Boreal, Hillside Music Festival, Folk On The Rocks, 2015 Pan Am Games, American Native Music Awards and Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards, to name a few. Over the past 20 years, NADJIWAN has released five studio albums, and in the past decade has had five consecutive number one hits on the National Aboriginal Top 40. His resume is made up of several accolades, including nominations for the Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards (Best Male Artist and Best Rock Album), Native American Music Awards (Best Rock Album), Dora Mavor Moore Award (Best Original Composition) and a recent nomination for Best Radio Single at the Indigenous Music Awards.
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Anachnid NADJIWAN The NorthStars Mike Paul
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2019 Indigenous Music Awards Nominee for Best Radio Station Program
WORK EXPERIENCE
Journey to Peru Indigenous Youth Travel Abroad to Gain Work Experience
O
ver the past 40 years, hundreds of Indigenous youth have participated in Canada World Youth’s unique programs, including Pathways to Indigenous Youth Leadership.
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A part of the Government of Canada’s International Aboriginal Youth Internships Initiative, this program is designed to help First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples (ages 17-35) strengthen their leadership and employability skills while also making a positive impact in the world.
two public engagement activities and a presentation on the experience.
The internship runs for six months, four of which are spent abroad. The other two months are divided into pre-departure orientation focusing on health and safety, career development, traditional teachings and other important subjects; reintegration and reflection; and working at home to submit
Alook was sent to Huaylas, a small Peruvian community of about 2,000 people located in the north-western side of the country. There, he spent four months helping the community by planting gardens, building ecological kitchens and engaging the community in activities, such as teaching En-
21-year-old Donald Alook (Tall Cree First Nation, Alberta, Canada) was one of 33 Indigenous youth who had the opportunity to travel to Peru last year.
WORK EXPERIENCE
glish to local youth, playing tug of war with high school students and showing kindergarteners how to brush their teeth. Alook was struck by the warm welcome his group received, saying they were “greeted with open arms” by their host families and the community as a whole. “Even though there was a language barrier, we still managed to have fun,” said Alook. “We would go watch the games every weekend, where they have volleyball and soccer tournaments from October to December. Every neighbourhood in Huaylas would compete; it felt like the whole community was there.” In addition to the local development initiatives, youth also participated in creating workshops based on Indigenous rights, environment, gender equality and governance to present to the local communities.
“[Donald Alook] came in very quiet and nervous, and after a couple of months it was a complete change,” commented program manager Tina Goodin. “We visited the Canadian Embassy reps in Lima and I was asking for volunteers to speak about the experience, and he was the first one to volunteer to present. I am so amazed by the transformation he had in just four months!” While he truly appreciated the trip, Alook was glad to return home after a busy four months. “I feel really good about what we achieved in that time,” he said, “and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to have been able to help make a difference.” CWY is currently accepting applications for 2020-21. Indigenous youth (ages 18-26) who have completed high school but have not yet completed post-secondary studies are eligible. To learn more about the program and to apply, visit canadaworldyouth.org/our_ programs/programs-for-aboriginal-youth.
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SUBMISSION
When It’s Over! Preparing to Meet the Needs of Your Clients when the Smoke Clears By Dan Furlan, HR Strategies
COVID-19 has forced an unwanted time-out on many businesses and organizations, while those providing essential services actually have seen spikes in their workloads. Everyone will be, or is already, doing things differently to adapt in both the short and long term. The meaning of “business as usual” has changed. Some companies, unfortunately, will be unable to continue, and others face a challenging recovery.
W
hile the end is not yet in sight, the number of cases have started to plateau and decline in several provinces and regions, commencing a gradual lifting of restrictions. So what now? What are you likely to face? • Will you need to retrench and recover to rebuild your service or business? • Are your clients, customers and supporters dealing with reduced capacity themselves? • Will you need to deal with a tsunami of pent-up demand? • Will you have to change your practices to meet a new reality? Whatever you need to do, it is wise to think about it now and prepare to hit the ground running. Your organization or business is different from the one next door. Your strengths, challenges and opportunities differ as well. Here are a few ideas to consider as you plan.
Assess your resources
Which staff can take on more responsibilities? • Newcomers—What can be done to accelerate learning, but not carelessly rush it? • More experienced staff—Are there decisions or tasks you could share or delegate? • Expert or near-expert staff—What can you delegate to them to free up your own time?
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Use your time well
It’s a new day, and perhaps time for new routines. • Do you have SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)? Which should continue and which should change? • Tasks and work processes—Think them over and consider which could change, and if so, how. • Priorities—Do you focus on them, but also update and adapt daily, weekly and/or monthly as needed?
Communicate
What further improvements can you make to operational communication? • Conduct brief 5-10 minute “here’s the plan” chats. (Some do it daily, others weekly, and it works.) • Schedule operational “issues” meetings with individual staff to update each other on developments. • Hold general staff meetings to keep the team informed. You can also have various departments describe to others what they do and how others can help them. You may already have effective practices in place. The better informed all parties are, the better they can support each other, serve clients and rebuild. Dan Furlan is a seasoned human resource professional with an extensive background in both human resource management, and training and development. Visit his website hrstrategies.ca.
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