Kapawe’no First Nation – We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Pimachimowin and Wakotwin Keeper to join our Kapawe’no First Nation Collegiate. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of traditional Indigenous practices, focusing on sustaining life (pimachimowin) and fostering family relationships (wakotwin). This role is pivotal in bridging Nehiyawak ways, 7 Sacred Grandmother and Grandfather teachings with contemporary practices, guiding our students and staff towards holistic living.
The Keeper will work closely with Elders Knowledge Keepers, educators, and the nation to preserve and transmit this invaluable knowledge, ensuring it resonates with current and future generations. If you are passionate about preservation and lifelong learning, we invite you to apply.
Position Overview:
1.0 Job Summary:
The Pimachihowin Keeper (Coordinator) will play a vital role in fostering a culturally inclusive environment within the KFN Collegiate by promoting the understanding and integration of Kihcitwaw kisnawmakiwinah ekwa wiyasiwiwinah (Grandmother and Grandfather teachings) through Nêhiyawêwin and Wakotowin.
This position is responsible for organizing and leading Nehiyawak, coordinating sharing circles, managing Nêhiyawak Pimachihowin (Good Life) balance and working with Elder Knowledge Keepers for daily scheduling. The Pimachihowin Keeper will work with families, nation and implement alternative peacekeeping strategies to reverse suspensions and enhance nation relationships with askihk (mother earth) and within the school.
2.0 Key Responsibilities:
- Cultural Programming and Activities:
- Develop and lead cultural programs and activities that promote the traditions and values of First Nations communities.
- Organize and facilitate sharing circles to provide students with a safe space for expressing themselves and learning from each other.
- Implement Nêhiyawak Pimachihowin (Good Life) initiatives that encourage holistic well-being, including activities related to land, air, water, and fire.
- Coordination of Elder Knowledge Keepers:
- Schedule and coordinate daily visits from Elder Knowledge Keepers, ensuring their knowledge and teachings are integrated into the school curriculum and activities.
- Facilitate communication between Elder Knowledge Keepers and school staff to enhance cultural understanding and support for students.
- Sovereign Foods and Medicine Harvesting:
- Sovereign Foods Initiatives will develop and manage programs focused on the cultivation and harvesting of sovereign foods, including traditional plants and crops that are vital to us.
- Medicine Harvesting on the Land will coordinate and lead field trips and outdoor learning experiences aimed at students learning the traditional methods of identifying and harvesting medicinal plants.
- On Land:
- Learning and Connection by engaging students with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities on traditional lands, focusing on the deep connection between Indigenous peoples and their environment.
- Cultural Practices will organize activities that allow students to participate in cultural practices such as crafting, storytelling, and rituals that honour the land and its resources.
- Environmental learning will provide environmental learning sessions focused on Nehiyawak knowledge of ecosystems, native plant and animal species, and the impact of climate change.
- Peacekeeping Strategies:
- Develop and implement alternative peacekeeping methods to address student behavior, focusing on cultural understanding and reconciliation.
- Work with school administrators to reverse suspensions through culturally appropriate interventions and peacekeeping (restorative justice practices).
- Nation Engagement and Support:
- Foster strong relationships with First Nations communities, parents, and local organizations to support cultural initiatives and student success.
- Organize nation events and workshops to promote cultural awareness and education among students, staff, and the nations.
- Administration and Reporting:
- Maintain accurate records of all cultural activities, programs, and student participation.
- Prepare and submit regular reports on the effectiveness of cultural programs and initiatives to the school administration.
3.0 Qualifications
- Speak and understand Nehiyawewin.
- Traditional Nehiyawak Knowledge and experience in the area of balance.
- Experience and knowledge or Bachelor’s degree or certification in Learning and Studies, Social Work and any wellness/wellbeing learning.
- Experience working with our Nations and a deep understanding of Nehiyawak Pimachihowin and Wakotowin.
- Strong organizational and coordination skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, Elders, and the nation.
- Experience with peacemaking (restorative justice) and alternative peacekeeping methods is an asset.
4.0 Preferred Attributes
- Fluent or willing to learn and speak Nehiyawewin Passionate about promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity in an educational setting.
- Ability to inspire and engage students in cultural learning and activities.
- Respectful and sensitive to the cultural needs and traditions of First Nations students and their families.
5.0 Working Conditions
- Full-time position (Monday to Friday) with regular working hours; occasional evenings and weekends may be required for nation events and programs.
- The role involves working in a dynamic school environment and participating in indoor / outdoor activities.
6.0 Other Duties as assigned
- Other duties as assigned within your scope of practice. However, undertaking such additional duties requires written authorization agreed to by both parties.
7.0 Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their resume, a cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience related to the role, and contact information for three professional references to Human Resources at Kapawe’no First Nation Collegiate at [email protected]. The application deadline is Friday, 11 October, 2024 4:00pm.
Kapawe’no First Nation Collegiate is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including our Anishinaabe / Nehiyawak, women, visible minorities, and persons with disabilities.
Updated: 1 October 2024
Last modified: October 8, 2024
