BC NEIHR August 2024

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. The BC NEIHR is currently in the process of updating its funding programs and funding call cycle dates. This information will be made available in Fall 2024.

Email Expression of Interest to lindsaybotterill@uvic.ca by August 15, 2024

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.

Next episode, "Inspiring Indigenous Scholars: Interview with Dr. Gabrielle Legault," coming soon!

Find us at: https://researchdecolonized.buzzsprout.com. This podcast is also hosted on SpotifyPodchaserPlayer FM, and Podcast Addict. For more information on the Podcast or material presented on the podcast, please contact taylor_atwater@sfu.ca

Research Funding

Arctic and Northern Challenge program - Aims to address pressing issues impacting the quality of life of Northern peoples. The program is committed to prioritizing Northern-led research projects that have a strong focus on Northern capacity building. By providing both research funding and scientific expertise, the program will support strong and sustainable Northern communities through applied technology and innovation.

Now open: NRC Arctic and Northern Challenge program round 2 development grants call for proposals. This second round of grants will provide resources for Northern applicants to conduct community-level consultations to ensure local support for a project idea and to prepare for a research and development proposal in one of the program’s 4 research themes, housing, water, food and health, for Arctic and Northern peoples and communities. Development grants will provide up to $50,000 over 12 months.

Eligible recipients must be at least one of the following:

  • Territorial and Indigenous governments in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Inuit Nunangat
  • Indigenous and Northern communities in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Inuit Nunangat
  • Indigenous and Northern organizations (for profit or not-for-profit) in Yukon, Northwest Territories and Inuit Nunangat
  • Academic organizations headquartered in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Inuit Nunangat

To request the application form or for more information about this call, please send an email to NRC.Arctic&Northern-Arctique&Nord.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca. The deadline to submit your grant application is 11:59 pm (ET) on October 4, 2024.

  • CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH): CIHR Early Career Researchers in Human Development, Child and Youth Health. The goal of this funding opportunity is to build research capacity, generate new knowledge, and support knowledge mobilization in human development, child and youth health by funding operating grants to early career researchers. In addition to supporting projects relevant to human development, child and youth health in IHDCYH's mandate area, separate funding pools will support the following priority areas: Indigenous Human Development, Child and Youth Health - this funding pool will support distinctions-based research that focuses on human development, child and youth health in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples and/or communities; Human Development, Child and Youth Health for Equity-Deserving Groups* - this funding pool will support research that focuses on human development, child and youth health in equity-deserving groups. *Equity-deserving groups include, but are not limited to, women, persons with disabilities, members of visible minority/racialized groups and members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities. View the ResearchNet posting for more information and how to apply. Registration deadline: September 4, 2024. Application deadline: September 24, 2024.
  • CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH): CIHR Analysis of Human Development, Child and Youth Health Data Using Existing Canadian Databases and Cohorts. This opportunity funds research that uses data from existing Canadian cohorts, databases, cohort catalogues, and data platforms relevant to reproductive, maternal, child and/or youth health. The objective is to highlight and encourage use for research of previously funded cohorts, administrative and survey data to inform improved patient, population and system outcomes. View the ResearchNet posting for more information and how to apply. Registration deadline: September 10, 2024. Application deadline: October 3, 2024.
  • CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH): Implementation Science Chairs in Human Development, Child and Youth Health (2024). The purpose of this funding opportunity is to fund early-career and/or mid-career researchers using a Chair model to advance Implementation Science within IHDCYH's mandate, with the ultimate goal of promoting health and health equity. The Chair model supports a multi-pronged approach to Implementation Science capacity development as it supports the applicant, their program of research, and the team they build. Within the overarching research area of Implementation Science in human development, child and youth health, funds to support one grant will be reserved for applications that align with the following priority research area: Indigenous Health Implementation Science Chair in Human Development, Child and Youth Health. View the ResearchNet posting for more information and how to apply. Application Deadline: October 15, 2024.

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.

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.

BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC)

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)

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:

  • September 15, 2024 – for students applying for the Summer 2024 semester (May-August 2024)
  • 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)

Mexican Government Call for Projects from Canadian Indigenous Academic Groups 2024. AMEXCID has launched the 2024 Mexican Government Grant Program for Canadian Indigenous Students. This program is aimed at students and academics from Canada, belonging to any of the Canadian Indigenous Inuit, Métis or First Nations communities who want to come to Mexico for a period of two to four weeks to participate in an academic exchange at a Mexican university. Closing date is August 15, 2024 at 18:00 CST. Click here to read the PDF. For more information, it is suggested to contact the AMEXCID Scholarship Information Center, infobecas@sre.gob.mx.

Indigenous Education Awards. Supports students from First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities who demonstrate a balanced lifestyle and commitment in their quest for education. The Merit, Bursary, Scholarship and Bridging Awards are available to select students who demonstrate leadership capabilities and strive to be role models in their school and community.

  • Merit Awards ($750) – for students completing Grades 10 – 12
  • Bursaries ($1200) – for students enrolled in trade/community technical college diploma or certificate program
  • Scholarships ($1800) – for students enrolled in degree or graduate programs
  • Bridging Awards ($1000) – for students registered in an upgrading program (Adult Basic Education) or University Preparation program

Applications for the 2024 Indigenous Education Awards are now being accepted. To learn more and apply, click hereThe application deadline is August 16, 2024.

A wide range of scholarships are available for people pursuing studies in various facets of government and public policy:

Review the 2024 Scholarship Brochure for information and scholarship criteria. Visit LGMA | Scholarships to access all application forms. Submit your applications no later than 4:30 pm PDT on October 4, 2024.

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.

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

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 - supports First Nations projects that explore the link between human health and environmental contaminants.

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.

  • Public Safety: apply between July 1 and August 31
  • Environment: apply between July 1 and August 31
  • Human and Social Services: apply between August 1 and November 30

LEVEL BIPOC Grants - Flexible, general operating grants of $50,000 for BIPOC-led organizations in BC to support work in racial equity and racial justice. The LEVEL BIPOC Grants Program invests in the leadership capacity of BIPOC-led and BIPOC youth-led and/or youth-engaging organizations operating in BC. These grants of $150,000 offer flexible, operating funding for three years to registered charities and registered non-profit societies. This funding can be used to cover costs that will contribute to their operational sustainability and adaptability to continue supporting the changing needs of their communities over time. Applications open until August 15, 2024.

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.

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.

The Climate Disaster Response Fund is a one-time grant opportunity that will provide limited resources to heritage focused organizations with heritage resources damaged by recent climate and natural disasters in British Columbia.

All applications will be processed on a first come, first served basis. The total allocation of funds is $75,000 with a maximum award of $8,000. Heritage BC reserves the right to manage each request internally. All projects must indicate the immediacy and urgency of the issues, an approximate timeline for scope of work, and a feasible project within the framework of this grant. To learn more and apply, click here.

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

Employment Opportunities

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.

  • Part-time Sessional Lecturers in Indigenous Land Stewardship program. The Faculty of Forestry at the UBC Vancouver campus is seeking to hire part-time sessional lecturers in its new Bachelor in Indigenous Land Stewardship program, which is starting Sept 2024. Opportunities exist in several courses, including but not limited to Indigenous ways of knowing, ecology, law and governance, economics, communication, business management, research and data management methods, and community capacity building. If you are interested in being considered as a sessional lecturer in this program, please contact Dr. John Innes (john.innes@ubc.ca) indicating your area of expertise and for more information. Deadline: until filled.
  • 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.

  • Assistant Professors - The Faculty of Science invites Indigenous applicants for three faculty positions in any field of Science. The three available positions are at the tenure-track assistant professor level and are cross-posted across six departments: Biochemistry & Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, Earth & Ocean Sciences, Mathematics & Statistics, and Physics & Astronomy. In accordance with the University’s Equity Plan and pursuant to section 42 of the BC Human Rights Code, the selection will be limited to Indigenous peoples. Applications will be accepted until all three positions are filled.
  • Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Indigenous Language Revitalization, Reclamation & Maintenance in the Department of Indigenous Education. This CRC recruitment is part of a broad strategy to expand and raise the profile of research and teaching strategies for Indigenous Language Revitalization. The successful applicant will be nominated by the university for a CRC Tier 2 and upon approval by the CRC Secretariat, will be offered a tenured or tenure-track faculty appointment at the appropriate rank, commensurate with qualifications and experience. The anticipated start date is July 1, 2025. For more information and how to apply, click here. The deadline for application is August 31, 2024. Review of applications will begin on September 1, 2024.
  • Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies (Indigenous) - School of Environmental Studies. We are seeking to expand our complement of Indigenous scholars in the School, and to strengthen our teaching and research in the areas of Indigenous-led ethnoecology, political ecology, or ecological restoration, broadly conceived. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to our core teaching in one of these areas, and lead a research program that critically engages with contemporary environmental challenges. We encourage applications from candidates with commitments to community-based research and research with Indigenous communities. In accordance with the University's equity plan and pursuant to Section 42 of the BC Human Rights code, the selection will be limited to members of the following designated group: Indigenous persons. Candidates must self-identify in the cover letter of their application to be considered for this position. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application Deadline: September 15, 2024.
  • 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.

  • Explore all UNBC career opportunities here.

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.

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.

BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC)

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.

Training and Events

Pride Season is a term that refers to the wide range of Pride events that take place over the summer (June to September) when 2SLGBTQI+ communities and allies come together to spotlight the resilience, celebrate the talent, and recognize the contributions of 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Although special attention is put on the Pride events during the summer months, they happen throughout the year in many communities.

Historically, Pride gatherings emerged from the first large-scale protests for 2SLGBTQI+ rights. In Canada, the first demonstrations took place in Ottawa and Vancouver in 1971. By 1973, Pride events were held in several Canadian cities, including Montréal, Ottawa, Saskatoon, Toronto, Vancouver and Winnipeg. Learn more here. Happy Pride Season!

September 5, 2024 | 10 am - 11:30 am PDT – Services for Children and Youth with Support Needs: Emergent Themes and Concepts from Ongoing Engagement and Research. The Ministry of Children and Family Development is undertaking public engagement, reviewing research and evaluating a pilot model to design the future of services for children and youth with support needs (CYSN Services). This presentation will follow up on the previous presentation about existing CYSN Services and plans for public engagement. The focus of this session will be on sharing emerging themes from public engagement so far, and central concepts from research that are helping to shape the future of CYSN Services. To learn more and register, click here.

October 3-5, 2024 - Indigenous Wellbeing Gathering Conference 2024. Manteo by Eldorado Resort, Kelowna, BC (Syilx Territory). Featuring keynote speakers, interactive roundtables, panel discussions, artistic presentations, performances, this gathering aims to create a space for learning and exchange on topics related to the spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health of community members across generations.

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.

Call for submissions: This year’s conference showcases why learning communities are important enablers of change in the health and health research ecosystems. Inviting submissions for posters that address or explore challenges and opportunities for health system research and improvement. Submissions must be for collaboration-based work that shows how learning communities were involved. Submission deadline: August 25, 2024, 11:59pm PST. Submit your project.

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.