URBAN INDIGENOUS EMPLOYMENT PREPARATION PROGRAM
The Urban Indigenous Employment Preparation Program (UIEPP) is a unique Upskilling Program. The partnership between Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) and Keyano College sees First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people living in the Wood Buffalo region able to take courses to improve their the education and ultimately their resume, fueling opportunities for employment, career advancement, and continuing skills training toward their dreams.
“In a year of so much change and tribulation it is such a great honour to acknowledge a group of students that persevered through so many challenges, not only in their personal lives but throughout their program as well,” said Rosmarie Boutilier, Keyano College Instructor.
When classes started in January, the instructors at Keyano College thought this was going to be a relatively ordinary program; COVID-19 numbers were low and things were beginning to open back up. The students began their program in class and were excited to be there.
In those early weeks in class, the students were dedicated in their efforts and ready to take on their course work. Cecil Dickason, their instructor, was fueled by the students’ energy and saw the potential in each one. The group very quickly became close and supported each other in any way they could. “Features of this group that stand out to me are the interpersonal bonds that were formed in the group, the lighthearted nature of daily interactions,” said Cecil.
As COVID-19 numbers started to rising again in March, it looked like the program would need to move to a virtual delivery. Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC), Keyano College, and the instructors began to make preparations to transition the students to a virtual platform and offered support where needed. COVID numbers by mid-March made the virtual plan necessary to keep students, instructors, and communities safe.
The students persevered in their transition to the new platform. They attended classes every day virtually, participating and interacting with the instructors and coordinators. Student took online courses where needed for their course work. The dedication of each student shone through when so much change happened in the program delivery.
As June approached and vaccines became widely available, COVID numbers started to decrease and students were once again able to return to in-person classes. June also meant they were coming to the end of their program and it was time to start writing exams. To support students through the exam process, ATC worked with Keyano to extend the program and supports by three weeks. This extension gave students the opportunity to excel in their studies, ensuring that each person was prepared to successfully write their exams.
Classes finished on July 23rd. ATC and Keyano College continue to follow up with the students to support them in moving onto their next chapter and career goals.
The efforts and hard work of this group of seven students should be commended.
Two of the students, Dalton and Andrew, were dedicated to their studies and passed all exams on their first attempt.
There was an inspiring mother and son duo who were completing upskilling together. Dolores and Gary both were always smiling and positive. Mom Delores was always quick to make sure Gary was paying attention. Dolores quickly became the mom of the group and was given so much respect.
Each student brought something to the class. Roy was dedicated, hardworking, always kind and ready to begin his next adventure. Austin always made us laugh and has a truly caring side that we were so fortunate to have gotten to see. Chevonne was the quiet, insightful one who remained dedicated even while going through relocating and working toward writing all of her exams.
“It truly was a pleasure to work with all of these students. We have had many conversations and worked together to accomplish their goals. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to get to know each student. I hope to continue to work on the next goal with each of them,” said Rosemarie.
The Urban Indigenous Employment Preparation Program is a partnership between Service Canada-Indigenous Skill Employment and Training (ISET), the Government of Alberta - Alberta Labour & Immigration, Keyano College, and Athabasca Tribal Council.
