Camosun program integrates Indigenous ways of knowing and being

Meagan Saulinier drumming and singing at a special occasion in Na'tsa'maht

The Indigenous Community Wellness certificate program is intended for Indigenous learners and advances the work of decolonization, while honouring Indigenous ways of knowing and being. This includes learners deepening awareness of their own cultural identity through traditional teachings and land-based learning with Old Ones and Knowledge Keepers.

“One of the unique features of the Indigenous Community Wellness program is that it draws upon and uses both Indigenous and western ways of knowing,” explains program lead and instructor Meagan Saulnier. “We listened to local Indigenous leaders and Old Ones about what the communities want and need. As a result, students will learn to communicate and facilitate groups in a respectful manner and use culturally relevant protocols.”

The 10-month program starts in Fall 2023 can be taken full- or part-time. It will be delivered at the Saanich Adult Education Centre, part of the W̱SÁNEĆ School Board located on the Tsartlip First Nation, near Brentwood Bay

Future students can email Program Leader Meagan Saulnier at saulnierm@camosun.ca.

Learn more at camosun.ca/ICW.