BC NEIHR November 2024

The sword fern grows from Alaska to south California in coastal or moist areas. It is often found growing with western red cedar in damp forests with lots of shade. Sword ferns reproduce by spores not by seeds; they need lots of moisture to spread the spores to sprout in a new spot. The new fronds start as curled stems, called “fiddleheads”.

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.

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 each year to ensure we have accurate records.

BC NEIHR UPDATES

Important Announcement: All BC NEIHR Funding is temporarily closed with the exception of the BC NEIHR Travel Award*. The BC NEIHR is currently in the process of updating its funding programs and funding call cycle dates.

*BC NEIHR Travel Award for Indigenous Graduate Students

📣Attention Indigenous graduate students studying at a BC institution! Must be a registered member of the network, find our registration survey here. Before applying, please carefully read the Overview and Instructions available on our website. Deadline: December 1, 2024.

New BC NEIHR Principal investigator, Rod McCormick, was named as a Fellow in the Royal Society of Canada. We celebrate this achievement and recognize Rod's longstanding commitments to Indigenous peoples' health. We're excited to have him on the team. Read the press release. On Friday, November 8, 2024, the RSC will induct the 2024 Fellows and Members of the RSC College at a ceremony as part of the Celebration of Excellence and Engagement in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The BC NEIHR is excited to share our Podcast, Research DE-Colonized: Ethical, Indigenous-Led Health and Wellness Research in Canada!

Join BC NEIHR Indigenous Health Research Facilitators, 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.

Research DE-Colonized is back for Season 2! To start this season off, Laura sits down with Métis scholar Dr. Gabrielle Legault to engage in conversations around what “community-led” or “X-led” research means in real-time applications. Gabrielle discusses her fascinating youth-led work, strategies for effective youth recruitment and more importantly, engagement, reciprocal and respectful relationships, and gives us a snapshot of the amazing work the Urban Indigenous Wellbeing Collective is doing throughout the southern interior. For more on the Urban Indigenous Wellbeing Collective, check out their website at: https://www.urbanindigenouswellbeing.com/.

Find our episodes at https://researchdecolonized.buzzsprout.com, or listen on Spotify, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser and/or Player FM.

Research Funding

CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH) - Healthy Youth Team Grants. These Team Grants will build on priority themes identified through the Healthy Youth Initiative and focus on youth-engaged research. Each grant is up to $1,500,000 ($300,000 per year for up to 5 years). Funds are allocated to ensure that at least 1 application is funded to support distinctions-based research with First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis youth. Learn more and how to apply on ResearchNet. Registration Deadline: December 10, 2024.

Scholar and Health Professional-Investigator Programs: 2025 competitions now open. Michael Smith Health Research BC’s Scholar and Health Professional-Investigator (HP-I) awards provide funding to support BC’s health researchers in advancing science and improving the health of British Columbians. Learn more here.

Program details:

Health Professional-Investigator (HP-I). supports health professionals actively involved in patient care to build their health research programs, train the next generation of scientists, and make significant contributions to their fields. A broad range of health professionals are invited to apply. Previous recipients include psychologists, psychiatric nurses, physicians and a dietitian.

Scholar. The Scholar Program supports early career health researchers by helping them form their own research teams, train the next generation of scientists, and develop world-leading research programs.

Key dates:

• Letter of intent deadline: November 19, 2024, 4:30 pm PT
• Full application deadline (applicant): January 23, 2025, 4:30 pm PT
• Full application deadline (host institution): January 30, 2025, 4:30 pm PT

Changes for 2024 competitions:

Indigenous health research review panel. Guided by advice from Indigenous partners, award recipients, peer reviewers and advisors, we are introducing a distinct peer review panel for Indigenous-led applications to the 2025 competitions. This is one step towards building and supporting relationships with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples and communities, increasing the cultural safety of our funding processes and growing our capacity for review of Indigenous health research applications. Acknowledging we are on a learning journey, this work is part of our ongoing commitment to advancing Indigenous reconciliation.

Top-up funding to support engagement with Indigenous communities. New top-up funding is also available from the BC SUPPORT Unit to award recipients whose research involves meaningfully engaging Indigenous communities to support those engagement activities.

Research Trainee – Opens November 2024. The Research Trainee Program supports the best and brightest health researchers in training to enable career development and support world-class health research in BC.

Student Funding

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. 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, and February 1 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time. *For more information and to apply, click here.

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 how to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:

• November 1, 2024 – for the Winter Semester (January-April 2025)
• March 31, 2025 – for students applying for the summer semester (May-August 2025)

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 how to apply, click here. This bursary is awarded after the successful completion of the semester. Please submit your application within a few weeks of the end of the semester for which you are applying. Application Deadlines:

• January 15, 2025 – for students applying for the Fall 2024 semester (September-December 2024)
• May 15, 2025 – for students applying for Winter 2025 semester (January -April 2025)

The Michael Smith Health Research BC-Mitacs health system focused funding opportunity supports graduate students and postdoctoral fellows across British Columbia to gain experience working with BC’s health system. Through our partnership with Mitacs, Health Research BC is reducing the financial barrier for participating health organizations and municipalities to host health system focused placements through the Mitacs Accelerate (for master’s and PhD students) and Elevate (postdoctoral fellows) programs.

The funding opportunity provides multiple benefits to trainees, academic supervisors and health organizations/municipalities:

• Trainees apply research skills in a non-academic environment and gain work experience with BC’s health system, build their CV with peer-reviewed research, broaden their professional network and earn a stipend.
• Academic supervisors build flexible research partnerships with health organizations and local municipalities and secure funding for trainees.
• Health organizations and municipalities grow their capacity for research by embedding the generation and use of evidence at a reduced cost by tapping into the expertise of highly skilled research talent to drive innovative solutions that tackle priority health and health system challenges.

The partnership fosters connections between BC’s academic sector and health system to provide high-quality opportunities for early career health researchers. We are building research talent that bridges the gap between academic and health system skillsets.

For full funding opportunity details, including eligibility, award terms and application process, refer to Mitacs health system focused funding details.

Key dates:

• Letter of intent (LOI) submission period (submitted to Health Research BC; LOIs accepted on a rolling basis): August 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025.
• Full application deadline (submitted to Mitacs): July 31, 2025.

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. No Deadline.

Canada Graduate Scholarships — Master’s program. The objective of the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS M) program is to help develop research skills and assist in the training of highly qualified personnel by supporting students who demonstrate a high standard of achievement in undergraduate and early graduate studies. For more information, click here. To view instructions and other resources, consult the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s program resources web page. Deadline: December 1, 2024.

Indigenous Scholars Awards and Supplements Pilot Initiative. The Indigenous Scholars Awards and Supplements Pilot Initiative will provide financial support to meritorious Indigenous students who have applied to the Canada Graduate Scholars—Master’s program (CGS M). Apply via the Canada Graduate Scholarships—Master’s program (see above). Deadline: December 1, 2024.

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) provides funding and assistance for training and skills development to non-Status Indians (First Nations), Métis, and Southern Inuit, living off reserve in Canada.

• To apply for skills and employment training funding, complete the Client Application. For more information, click here. If you have any questions, contact the ISET National Training Coordinator, Fineen Davis, at: applications@abo-peoples.org

Indigenous Communities, Collectives and Organizations (ICCO) Funding

The 2024-2025 Winter Wellness Grants (WWG). This year, the theme of the grants and the selection process will be prioritizing wellness initiatives for young adults. This year's WWG cycle is intended to fund initiatives that encourage young First Nations people in BC to host community-led wellness celebrations, events, and honour culture, community, and connection this winter. First Nations communities, First Nations-run health and social organizations that provide wellness services to First Nations people and First Nations educational institutions (schools) will be eligible for up to $3,000 to conduct their own Wellness for Young Adults Winter Initiative. All communities and organizations must be based in BC. You can submit an application by completing the online app​lication form. Please note that if you require more information and/or experience any challenges with the online application form you can email active@fnha.ca or call (604) 785-2216. The FNHA recommends that the event or initiative take place between January 6 and January 31, 2025. If there are goals outside this timeframe, please contact active@fnha.ca. The deadline to submit an application is November 7, 2024, at 4 pm.

2024-25 Urban and Away-from-Home (UAH) Funding Initiative. Grants of up to $25,000 are available to support the UAH population in areas of primary care, mental health and wellness, the toxic drug response, addressing anti-Indigenous racism and promoting cultural safety in health care. Funding requests must be one time and can be used to support or supplement program funding. Consideration will be given to initiatives that have a direct impact on the UAH population; reach a broad range of First Nations people that live in an UAH setting; and improve the availability, quality and accessibility of health and wellness services for the UAH population. You can find full details for the initiative, including eligibility requirements and application instructions here. The deadline to apply is Friday November 22, 2024.

Indigenous Climate Health Action Program (ICHAP) - supports First Nations leadership in reducing climate change impacts on health. ICHAP is now accepting expressions of interest (EOIs) for projects starting spring 2025 and onward. Contact climate.health@fnha.ca for copies of the EOI template. If you don't hear back within three business days, please follow up to confirm your email was received.

Reviewed on a rolling basis until the funding has been allocated. Successful EOIs will be invited to develop full proposals. Given limited funding available, EOIs will be reviewed with preference given to communities that have not received ICHAP funding in the previous year.

Environmental Contaminants Program (ECP) - a funding opportunity that supports BC First Nation community-based research projects that explore the link between human health and environmental contaminants.

The ECP is now accepting expressions of interest (EOIs) for projects starting spring 2025 and onward. ​ All BC First Nation communities are eligible to apply. Successful recipients are able to receive funding from the program once per fiscal year (April 1 to March 31).

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.

We fund activities that align with at least one of our three focus areas:

• Communities - Prioritizes work that rebalances power and centres communities in addressing their own needs. We aim to partner with and strengthen organizations and networks that reflect the communities they serve, and that represent their interests as they seek to address historical and ongoing barriers to social and economic justice.
• Reconciliation - Funds projects that advance a reconciliation economy where wealth and resources are equitably shared and sustainably stewarded for this generation and those yet to come, in relationship with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
• Climate - We recognize that the impacts of the climate crisis are not experienced equally across society, meaning some communities are more severely impacted. For example, melting permafrost, changing ice patterns and shifting migration of animals are especially damaging to Indigenous ways of life, and it is often Indigenous communities’ lands and waters that are most polluted by fossil fuel projects. It is inadequately housed Canadians and those most at risk, such as the elderly, who experience the highest mortality rates during heat waves. Critical to tackling the climate crisis is to support communities most impacted in designing and implementing solutions.

Community Gaming Grants - provide $140 million annually to not-for-profit organizations throughout BC, to support their delivery of ongoing programs and services that meet the needs of their communities. For more information about these grants, including eligibility criteria, grant amounts, how and when to apply and more, click here.

• Human and Social Services. Organizations within this sector deliver programs that improve the quality of life in a community by supporting the wellbeing of children, youth, families and/or seniors; by addressing equality issues (e.g., gender, LGBTQ2S+, race, etc.); by addressing the unmet needs of under-served groups; or, by providing public outreach and education regarding important social issues: Apply between August 1 and November 30.

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.

BC Arts Council Grant Programs:

• Arts Infrastructure Program - Enables eligible organizations to develop and enhance spaces that support the work of BC’s arts and cultural practitioners. Deadline: November 6, 2024.

The Canada Council for the Arts champions and invests in artistic excellence through grants, services, prizes and payments to professional Canadian artists, groups and arts organizations. For a list of all available grants, click here.

Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and Cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. This program supports Indigenous individuals, groups, Indigenous-led arts organizations and arts/cultural sector development organizations that foster a vital and resilient Indigenous arts ecosystem. Program Components:

• Travel - Grants support travel costs to attend significant events within Canada or abroad that advance your professional development, enable you or the artists you represent to access new markets or build national and international presence. Deadline: Any time before your departure date.
• Small-Scale Activities - Funds activities that will advance your artistic career or practice. Deadline: Any time before the start date of your project or activity.
• Short-Term Projects - Grants provide support for any combination of eligible Creating, Knowing and Sharing activities for projects lasting up to 12 months. Deadline: Nov 20, 2024.

Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Language. The Commission is mandated to support innovative projects and the use of new technologies in Indigenous language education and revitalization, in cooperation with Indigenous governments and other Indigenous governing bodies, Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada and provincial and territorial governments.

The Commission is also mandated to undertake research or studies related to the provision of funding to support Indigenous languages and the use of Indigenous languages in Canada. The Commission is currently undertaking research to measure and understand the health and vitality of, and the funding allocated to support, Indigenous languages. Currently accepting proposals for Innovation projects, click here for more information.

• Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act 2023-2025. The call for Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act, developed in partnership with the Assembly of First Nations, is intended to support First Nations efforts in addressing the priorities they have identified to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen First Nations languages and First Nations governed initiatives in collaboration with federal departments and agencies, and other First Nations, provincial or territorial governments as desired and appropriate. To be eligible for funding, you must be a First Nation organization within Canada. “First Nation organization”, refers to an organization owned and controlled by First Nation persons, including a First Nation-owned corporation or a First Nation-controlled non-profit organization, that directly delivers language revitalization services or that otherwise supports the delivery of language revitalization services. First Nation applicants applying to the Department of Canadian Heritage are required to read the Interim Application Guidelines in its entirety for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act and contact the Department of Canadian Heritage to request an application package and submit the required documentation. For how to apply and contact information, click here. Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis for 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 fiscal years.
• Legacy Fund – Building Communities through Arts and Heritage. Provides funding for community-initiated capital projects, intended for community use. Recipients may receive up to 50 per cent of eligible project expenses up to a maximum of $500,000. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application deadline: Projects must be submitted before the anniversary date of the event or personality to be commemorated.

For more funding opportunities, visit the BC NEIHR website at https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/bcneihr/external-funding-opportunities/

Employment Opportunities

Simon Fraser University is a Canadian university recognized around the world for academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability. We employ more than 7,000 faculty and staff that support the institution, facilities, programs and teams to equip the university’s 37,000 students with the knowledge, skills and experiences that prepare them for life in an ever-changing and challenging world. Guided by our shared vision—to be a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future—we are committed to meeting the changing needs of both the world around us and the people and communities we serve.

• Explore all SFU opportunities here.

Research Assistant - Indigenizing Health Research Ethics Project. The Centre for Collaborative Action on Indigenous Health Governance (CCAIHG) at SFU is seeking a Research Assistant to join their Indigenizing Health Research Ethics project and research team. The Research Assistant will work collaboratively with the Centre staff (i.e., Director, Senior Research Manager, Project Manager, and Indigenous Trainees), BC Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research (BC NEIHR), FNHA, Principal Investigators, Elder Advisors, Indigenous Research Trainees, Co-Applicants, Collaborators, and SFU interdisciplinary teams to lead and facilitate research activities associated with this project.

Application details:

• Status: part-time (20 hours per week) position for a one-year contract, with the possibility of extension.
• Hourly rate: $32.00 per hour (Extended health and dental benefits are not included)
• Location: Remote work within BC

To learn more about this role and project please visit www.sfu.ca/ccaihg/current-opportunities.html. If this role interests you, please send your resume and cover letter to indigenoushealthgovcentre@sfu.ca by November 13th, 2024.

Situated in twelve communities on the traditional territories of Yukon First Nations, Yukon University is guided by the indomitable spirit of the Yukon wilderness and millennia of resilience and resourcefulness. Eleven of the fourteen First Nations in Yukon are self- governing, and all Yukon First Nations are shaping Yukon’s social, economic, and political landscape. Since its origins six decades ago, YukonU has been providing educational experiences rooted in visionary opportunities and unique challenges borne of the North.

• Senior Scholar, Northern Social Work - Are you looking to make a difference in the field of Social Work and Social Work Education in the North? Are you passionate about reconciliation through education, community- engaged curriculum development, transformative education, and leading ethical northern research? Yukon University is seeking a faculty member who is deeply committed to teaching, research, and scholarship. YukonU values equity, diversity, and inclusion—we invite all qualified persons to apply but will prioritize those who self-identify as Yukon First Nations, other First Nations, Métis, Inuit, or other Indigenous ancestry. If you’re interested in this opportunity, contact Mark Gillis, Partner at mgillis@kbrs.ca or Natalie Lagace, Recruitment Specialist at nlagace@kbrs.ca, or submit your application online at: http://www.kbrs.ca/Career/18248.
• Research Chair, Northern Social Work - This Research Chair is being established to deepen research capacity in northern social work at YukonU. The Research Chair will help YukonU achieve its academic plan goals by growing the university’s capacity to contribute to high-impact teaching and research, and by strengthening the university’s impact on northern challenges. This is an exciting time for social work at the university, as YukonU transitions its partnered Bachelor of Social Work degree to a made-in-Yukon degree. The Research Chair will play an important role in the development of YukonU’s new social work degree, particularly in ensuring curriculum is informed by and aligned with emerging, relevant research and, through the introduction of new research activities. The Research Chair will contribute to mapping and implementing a degree experience for students that prepares them to practice social work in the North. If you’re interested in this opportunity, contact Mark Gillis, Partner at mgillis@kbrs.ca or Natalie Lagace, Recruitment Specialist at nlagace@kbrs.ca, or submit your application online at: http://www.kbrs.ca/Career/18247.

VCH is a world-class medical, research and teaching innovator, delivering care to more than one million B.C. residents living in Vancouver, the North Shore, Richmond, the Sea-to-Sky corridor, Sunshine Coast and the Central Coast. Vancouver Coastal Health is committed to delivering exceptional care to 1.25 million people, including the First Nations, Métis and Inuit, within the traditional territories of the Heiltsuk, Kitasoo-Xai’xais, Lil’wat, Musqueam, N’Quatqua, Nuxalk, Samahquam, shíshálh, Skatin, Squamish, Tla’amin, Tsleil-Waututh, Wuikinuxv, and Xa’xtsa.

• Vice President, Indigenous Health - VCH is seeking a collaborative, innovative, and engaged Indigenous leader to assume the role of Vice President, Indigenous Health (VP, IH). This person plays a crucial role in driving systemic change within the health system to improve the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples. Their leadership is instrumental in advancing health equity, promoting cultural safety, and fostering meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities. For the full job posting, click here. VCH invites applications from all candidates. However, as VCH is committed to a new relationship with Indigenous communities and closing the gap in health and social disparities for Indigenous persons in British Columbia, strong preference is given to qualified First Nations, Métis, or Inuit applicants.
• Explore all Vancouver Coastal Health opportunities here.

UBC is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. A large part of what makes us unique is the community of engaged students, faculty and staff who are collectively committed to shaping a better world.

• Explore all UBC careers and job postings here.

At the University of Victoria, we combine outstanding scholarship with inspired teaching and community engagement. We’re committed to recruiting, developing and retaining people who help us build a better future.

• Research Assistant NEȾOLṈEW̱ Partnership. The NEȾOLṈEW̱ ‘one mind, one people’ Partnership is seeking a Research Assistant to join our team. NEȾOLṈEW̱, the name of our partnership, translates as “one mind, one people” or “doing things as one” in the SENĆOŦEN language. NEȾOLṈEW̱ is a network of partners working at the core of Indigenous language revitalization. Together, we are working to build capacity among Indigenous people to maintain, revitalize, and strengthen efforts towards the revitalization of the Indigenous languages in Canada. You would join a warm and welcoming environment within the NEȾOLṈEW̱ Project and the Department of Indigenous Education. Position: We are seeking a part-time Research Assistant (graduate student) to join our team. The RA will work 5-10 hours per week (hours may vary). Term: The positions start immediately upon hiring, with a commitment to April 30, 2025, with the possibility of an extension. Location: Our work is based from the University of Victoria campus, Victoria, BC. The work can be done remotely, however, it is preferred that Research Assistants reside in the Greater Victoria area. Access to a dedicated space in our research offices is provided. Review of applications will begin on Monday October 7 and will continue until the position is filled.
• All Faculty & librarian postings
• All Staff postings

The University of Northern British Columbia is fully committed to creating and maintaining an equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment that is accessible to all. We are devoted to ensuring a welcoming, safe, and inclusive campus free from harassment, bullying, and discrimination. The University of Northern British Columbia is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from the four designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities) as well as the LGBTQ2+ communities and individuals with intersectional identities.

• Indigenous Academic Lead, National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH). The National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH), located on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), invites applications for the Indigenous Academic Lead, National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH) at the rank of Associate or Full Professor, with proposed starting date of January 1, 2025. For the full job posting and how to apply, click here. Applications received on or before November 7, 2024, will receive full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
• Explore all UNBC career opportunities here.

Interior Health is consistently identified as one of the top 100 employers in British Columbia. Caring is at the heart of who we are. We strive to live out our vision: Health and well-being for all, as we deliver health services to the over 800,000 people across British Columbia’s southern Interior region. For 20 years, Interior Health has worked together with partners and communities, inspired by innovation and the pursuit of a healthier tomorrow.

• Explore all Interior Health Careers here

Connecting Indigenous talent to fulfilling careers. We are excited to extend a warm welcome to Indigenous candidates who are interested in joining one of our diverse teams. You’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of people living in our communities.

Are you interested in an opportunity to grow professionally within a positive and progressive culture? At Northern Health we build for the future. Acquiring and retaining high-quality diverse talent is a high priority for our organization’s success.

• Explore Northern Health Careers here.

Our commitment is to offer innovative and quality health care through professional development and research. We believe that strong relationships and community partnerships will assist us in supporting healthier and stronger communities and a better quality of life for our community members.

• Indigenous Recruitment & Retention Program
• Island Health Careers

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 view all current BCAAFC career opportunities, 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 MNBC career opportunities, 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 explore all current FNHA job postings, click here.

Are you passionate about supporting the revitalization of First Nations arts, cultural heritage and language in BC? The First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) is a First Nations-led Crown Corporation that provides grants, training, coaching and resources to First Nations communities in BC.

Current Opportunities

• Cultural Heritage Planner
• IMIT Services Coordinator
• Language Program Associate
• Language Nest Coach
• Request for Qualifications: Graphic Designer

Training and Events

November is Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM)

Indigenous peoples of Canada experience a disability rate significantly higher than that of the general population. Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM) brings awareness of these barriers and the issues that Indigenous peoples living with disabilities and their families face every day. More importantly though, despite these barriers, IDAM celebrates the achievements of Indigenous peoples living with disabilities and recognizes the significant and valuable contributions they make to our communities socially, economically, and culturally every day.

Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM) was created by British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS) in 2015, and 2024 is its 10th anniversary! Since then, IDAM has been annually declared and recognized by the Provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, the Assembly of First Nations, BC First Nations Summit, Métis Nation of BC, Council of Yukon First Nations, the Town of Inuvik, and hundreds of other organizations and communities across Canada. IDAM is the only Indigenous disability-specific awareness initiative of its kind in the world. In 2017 the United Nations International Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities recommended to Canada to officially declare November as IDAM annually.

November 19 – 21, 2024 - Indigenous Disability and Wellness Gathering | Victoria Conference Center on the ancestral lands of the Lekwungen Peoples. We will be celebrating Indigenous Disability Canada's (IDC) / British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society's (BCANDS') 31st anniversary and the 10th anniversary of Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM) being recognized and proclaimed. Learn more here.

The 2024 Gathering would interest any individual, organization, or other stakeholders interested in Indigenous disability and wellness, whether as an individual, family, professional, leader, or those representing Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities and organizations. Register here.

November 12, 2024 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am PST – Reclaiming Anishinaabe Law: Recognition and Affirmation as Reconciliation with Dr. Leo Baskatawang. Dr. Leo Baskatawang will discuss why the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 is codifying its own education law, how an Anishinaabe education system might differ from Canada’s public education system, and what Canadian governments must do to recognize and affirm localized Indigenous laws in the spirit of reconciliation. Learn more and register here.

The Indigenous Public Health Training Institutes equip Indigenous community members and scholars with the necessary skills to address public health issues in Indigenous communities. One-week intensive courses are offered toward the completion of the Graduate Certificate or Certificate (non-credit) in Indigenous Public Health, or courses can be taken individually.

Indigenous Public Health Winter Institute 2025 – Applications are open! IPH Winter 2025 will be held: February 17th – 21st, 2025 in person at UBC Vancouver. For more information and how to apply, click here. Apply by November 30, 2024.

November 14, 2024 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am PST – Indigenous Public Health Training: Information Session 2024. For more information and to register, click here.

November 14, 2024 - Putting Patients First 2024: Building learning communities. The BC SUPPORT Unit, part of Michael Smith Health Research BC, is hosting the annual Putting Patients First conference in Vancouver BC. The conference advances learning communities to improve health and health research ecosystems. Leaders in the health and health research communities, from patients to policy makers, are welcome to attend. Register here.

November 20 – 27, 2024 - The Rural Voices Gathering 2024. The Rural Voices Gathering is an open and inclusive event welcoming everyone who lives, works or provides services in rural, remote, First Nations, and Métis communities across British Columbia. Co-hosted by the Rural Coordination Centre of BC (RCCbc), First Nations Health Authority, and Health Quality BC, this province-wide gathering is your opportunity to contribute to conversations and build connections that will shape the future of health and wellness in rural BC. To learn more and register, click here.

November 27, 2024 | 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm PST - From Cultural Genocide to Cultural Safety. Join us to learn about the importance of a nuanced and respective approach to cultural safety and humility. Derek Thompson - Čaabať Bookwilla is from the Ditidaht First Nation, 1 of 14 Nuuchahnulth communities along the west coast of Vancouver Island. He is the Director, Indigenous Engagement for the UBC Faculty of Medicine, and he brings over 30 years of experience working with First Nations organizations and communities across the province and country to achieve wellness through health and related services. Learn more and register here.

November 28, 2024 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am – Restoring Balance: A decolonized approach to burnout prevention and recovery with Vanessa and Ariana from Decolonize and Rize. Burnout can have significant consequences for our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. In this circle, we will explore the early signs of burnout and ways we can begin to mitigate its impacts. We look at burnout through both an individual and organizational lens, along with sharing practical tools, tips, and reflections team members can use to support themselves and their colleagues. Leran more and register, here. 

December 3 – 4, 2024 - Clinical Research Ethics Symposium 2024. Free online event hosted by Research Ethics BC in collaboration with Clinical Trials BC. The symposium is an opportunity for research ethics professionals and broader research community interested in clinical research ethics and clinical trials to discuss ethical issues around topics of interest in British Columbia and beyond. To learn more and register, click here.

Indigenous Health Administration and Leadership Program (IHALP) applications are open! Rooted in the core values of resiliency, culture and Indigenous perspectives, the UBC Certificate in Indigenous Health Administration and Leadership is designed to build and enhance your knowledge of health administration so you can confidently design, lead, and deliver holistic health and wellness programming in Indigenous organizations and communities. This program is proudly delivered in partnership by the UBC Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health in and UBC Extended Learning, which offers support in instructional design, course delivery and student services, including applications and registration. The program curriculum is centered on Indigenous approaches and traditional teachings and is taught primarily by Indigenous instructors. You’re in a culturally safe and supportive learning environment that offers opportunities to build connections and lifelong relationships with your peers and instructors. The program format is flexible allowing you to do the program along with your work and family commitments. Learn more here.

Important information and dates for 2025/2026 Cohort

• Format: Courses are either virtual classes with 3 day in-person residencies (held at UBC Vancouver campus)
• Duration: One year, part-time
• Cost: $6,400 (Details on the “Apply” page)
• 2025/2026 Program Schedule: View here
• Next program start date: March 28, 2025
• Early application deadline: November 27, 2024
• Final application deadline: February 19, 2025

January 16, 2025 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am– Indigenous Health Administration and Leadership Program (IHALP): 2025 Information Session. Learn about the IHALP certificate program that is designed to support Indigenous organizations and communities to build strength-based, holistic programming that promotes health and well being. Learn about Indigenous communities and their own measures for success and unique cultural and geographical needs. Ask questions, hear about alumni experiences, and chat directly with course instructors so see if this program is right for you. Learn more and register here. This session will be recorded. Please sign up even if you can’t make it so that we can email you the link to the recording at a later time. View the 2024 information session here.

In celebration of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages 2022–2032, the FPCC has launched the Learning Series. These events aim to inspire, inform and foster collaboration among those involved in language, arts and cultural heritage revitalization projects. This free online webinar series will cover various topics related to arts, language and cultural heritage revitalization. These webinars aim to inform, inspire and provide hands-on, practical knowledge. The Online Learning Series will take place throughout November and December 2024. Each webinar will be free to attend and open to anyone involved in revitalization work. Learn more and register for the webinars here.

Call for Papers and Unique Opportunities

Island Health invites Indigenous post-graduate students interested in undertaking health services, health policy, clinical research, or quality improvement projects within the Island Health system. Island Health is strongly committed to working in partnership with Indigenous, Métis and Inuit people to support integration of cultural safety, anti-racism and trauma-informed care into health service delivery. Island Health can provide collaborative support for Indigenous students and researchers seeking to make connections in a number of ways:

• Connection to Indigenous health and also non-Indigenous health service leaders who are working to enable cultural safety, anti-racism and trauma-informed care within the health system across broad areas.
• Partnerships for an Indigenous Culturally Safe supportive environment.
• Academic mentorship and supervision aligned with academic institution requirements.

Mentorship and support are provided by Island Health on an individual basis based on the needs of each student and their projects. If you are interested, please contact research@islandhealth.ca.

Island Health is recruiting Indigenous people to join Island Health’s Health Research Ethics Board (HREB). The HREB approaches the review of research by and with Indigenous Peoples and communities with a lens of cultural safety, humility and learning. Recognizing the impact of colonialism in particular in the context of access and rights in a healthcare context, the HREB actively seeks participation and inclusion in its membership of Indigenous Board members to review prospective research studies and evaluate them ethically. Reviews are guided by frameworks and guidance provided by OCAP®, the BC Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA), the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and trauma-informed research guidelines, as well as the Tri-Council Policy Statement issued by the Panel on Research Ethics among others. All members receive training, administrative support, and compensation for monthly meeting attendance and any studies they review. All HREB meetings and review processes are currently conducted virtually (online), with the option of attending in-person meetings once annually. Please contact E. Sarah Bennett (elizabeth.bennett@islandhealth.ca), Manager, Research Ethics & Compliance, Island Health for more information or with questions.

The Turtle Island Journal of Indigenous Health team is looking for new members! No prior experience is required to apply. These are remote positions open to students and community members across Turtle Island who are interested in promoting TIJIH's vision: Respectful co-learning between Indigenous ways of knowing and western science; Collaborating and partnering with Indigenous Peoples in knowledge generation and capacity-building; Building a community of practice that honours relationality as a model of high-impact engagement. To learn more and apply, click here.

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 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 (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!

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/.

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.

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