BCIT creating pathways for Indigenous youth learners through local partnerships

BCIT mural at Beedie Plaza

The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is pleased to announce that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Squamish Líl̓wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) and Capilano University to formalize a partnership that will create opportunities for Indigenous youth learners.  The partners gathered earlier this month at the Squamish Líl̓wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, B.C., … Read more

National Indigenous Peoples Day: What is the meaning of the day

National Indigenous Peoples Day

National Indigenous Peoples Day, occurring on June 21, is a day to celebrate culture, hear traditional songs from different Nations, and also learn about the history of Indigenous peoples. It was first celebrated in 1996 and since then, more events happen on this day across Canada. It gives a chance for Indigenous people to be … Read more

An Indigenous singer-songwriter moves away from a small community to chase her dreams

BCIT Broadcast Online Journalism documentary showcase

On April 12, second year students in BCIT Broadcast and Online Journalism program had a documentary showcase, and there was a documentary produced by Kobie Smith, Ugiloy Suvonova, and Chris Koo that featured Indigenous singer-songwriter Hayley Wallis. Hayley Wallis is from Kitasoo/ Xais’Xais Nation also known as Klemtu BC, a small remote reserve located in … Read more

Empowering futures: BCIT Indigenous Youth Gathering

BCIT Indigenous Youth Gathering

In an inspiring convergence at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), over 100 Indigenous youth and staff from three high school districts were given a unique opportunity to envision their future through various workshops and cultural exchanges at the BCIT Indigenous Youth Gathering. This event, aimed at exploring post-secondary opportunities at BCIT and highlighting … Read more

From student to advocate: BCIT Carpentry alum Barbara James is a champion for Indigenous women in trades

Barbara James in light brown sweater, smiling

Barbara James is a superstar in the trades sector. A Red Seal Carpenter, BCIT Faculty, and an advocate for women in trades, she is an inspiration to many. The two-time BCIT alum is quick to credit the many mentors—informal and formal—who helped Barbara recognize her own potential and lay the foundation for a career that … Read more

Protecting the planet: BCIT Ecological Restoration alum looks to Indigenous land stewardship with hope for the future

Erin Rutherford smiles surrounded by green leaves in a natural landscape, wearing all black

In fall 2021, an extensive ecological restoration project was initiated to rebuild and conserve the foreshore area of Granite Falls in Say Nuth Khaw Yum Provincial Park. Led by Tsleil-Waututh Nation in partnership with SeaChange Marine Conservation Society and BC Parks, the project was guided by historical knowledge from Nation members and involved many scientists … Read more

Minister of Transport announces a new investment in marine training for Indigenous Peoples, Northerners, and women through the Oceans Protection Plan

A student in the Enhanced Bridge Watch Rating program

With more vessels and goods being transported on Canadian waters than ever before, investing in a strong, diverse, and skilled marine workforce along our coasts is critically important. That’s why, through Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan, the Government of Canada is providing underrepresented groups with new training opportunities to strengthen Canada’s world-class marine safety system. Today, … Read more

Honouring and amplifying Indigenous voices this Indigenous History Month

4 Indigenous alumni side by side

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, a time to honour the history, heritage and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Now more than ever, it’s important to amplify Indigenous voices, experiences, and stories, and to acknowledge the lived truths of Indigenous peoples, including those of our BCIT students, alumni, and instructors. The following … Read more

BCIT Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships honours President Kathy Kinloch

On May 24, 2022, BCIT Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships honoured President Kathy Kinloch for her 8-year contribution to BCIT and in guiding BCIT’s commitment to taking authentic, sustainable actions that build awareness and understanding around Truth, Reconciliation, Indigenization, the legacy of Colonization, and the contemporary reality of Canada and Indigenous people. “We are very grateful … Read more

BCIT opens Indigenous Garden at Burnaby Campus

BCIT officially opened its Indigenous Garden earlier this month. The tiered garden in the courtyard, between SW1 and SW3 on the Burnaby Campus, provides a dedicated area to cultivate a range of Indigenous plants and is also built to be a peaceful green space for students and staff to enjoy. The range of plants includes … Read more