Cultural teachings help employability
M’CHIGEENG FN – Participants in the Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute’s A.I.M.S. program have nothing but praise for the 12-week job-readiness initiative.
“The program taught me that there will always be challenges in life and it’s our attitude that will determine whether we rise above the challenges and look for the positive gifts within them,” says Dante Danville. “ I also learned that our culture is at the centre of our core and determines our strong Anishinaabe pride.”
Dante completed A.I.M.S.—which stands for Anishinabek Identity, Mind and Spirit – which is designed to improve the overall confidence, skills, and employability for 100 Aboriginal adults between 18-45 years old in the Manitoulin region over a two and half year period.
Beverly Roy-Carter, Kenjgewin Teg’s director of business and training, says the first critical part of the A.I.M.S. program focuses upon nurturing the inner spirit, sense of identity and belonging of each and every one of the students.
“ By creating a solid foundation within a supportive learning environment and with newfound personal direction and confidence, students will then be better prepared for the mechanics of academic learning,” she says.
For the A.I.M.S. program, as part of skills development, a key outcome for students is the completion of a Grade 12 or Grade 12 equivalency, including GED or the Academic Career and Entrance program.
Dante Danville is returning specifically to obtain his GED certificate.
“When I first heard about the A.I.M.S.program, I knew I needed to learn more about what it offered,” he says. “ As soon as I walked in the door, I realized that this was the program I had to join. I was looking for a positive change in my life and ‘synchronicity’ had happened. The AIMS program was a perfect fit.
“The environment was very welcoming, sitting amongst my peers with smiling faces as we were all ready to learn some form of direction in our lives. The program taught me to accept myself for who I am. It gave me a sense of belonging and a peace of mind as our classroom became a family of sorts as we laughed and shared funny stories.
“ I also learned that change is inevitable but if we sit and wait for it, the change that appears may not be to our liking so go out and initiate the change we want. Then we’re more likely to be happy with the results.
“I’m in a much better place within myself as I now feel more confident that I can walk away from the old negative behaviours that dragged me down. I’m associating myself with positive people who are supporting me in my movement forward. I must say that I am most grateful for the Elders of the A.I.M.S. program who continually supported me and kept me on the ‘good road’, especially when times were tough and I wanted to give up.”
April McDowell is remaining as a part-time A.I.M.S. participant to upgrade the math skills required for her to obtain her GED.
A full-time student with Sheridan College through Contact North, she was sponsored by Manidoo Mnising Training and Employment for the “CompTIA A+ certification program” which is the starting point for a career in IT. The program covers maintenance of PCs, mobile devices, laptops, operating systems and printers.
“I had heard about the A.I.M.S. program but hesitated to join because I thought I knew who I was,” Sharon says. “However, I ventured into the Open House and registered. My first day in class gave me the realization that I knew we were all meant to be there together. The environment was warm and welcoming and I even recognized a few faces in the class.
“One of the most important aspects of my learning was the teaching from the Elders on the importance of our traditions within our culture: the drum teaching, the Clan teachings, smudging and especially the Treaties. They really impacted me and gave me such a clear understanding of my identity as an Anishinaabe kwe which I continue to pass onto my children. I finally felt like I fit in.
“ My confidence soared, especially with the teachings of the language which I still use today at home and at work. I also learned from the Elders that there is meaning in everything we do, whether it’s beading, drumming, smudging or working with the plants and animals. It taught me the true meaning of respect because there is a bigger picture in everything that the Creator gave to us. I feel the humbleness every time I lay my semaa down.
“The A.I.M.S.program has given me the confidence to begin my home-based business and I know I will succeed. Thanks to the program, I have a renewed sense of self-esteem. I received my Clan during the program which made me feel complete.”