TD empowers Indigenous students in trades at Camosun

Released: March 13, 2023 | Last Updated: April 27, 2023

Alisha Dsouza  |  News release School of Trades and Technology

Camosun College

The donation will be used to provide a full support system for Indigenous trades students at Camosun College throughout their apprenticeship journey to becoming Red Seal certified.

“Providing students with mentorship, career guidance in a supportive environment that celebrates Indigenous cultures and builds lasting connections will help students succeed and thrive.”

- SUSAN WILSON, COORDINATOR, INDIGENOUS PEOPLES IN TRADES TRAINING INITIATIVE, CAMOSUN.

“Camosun is incredibly grateful for the funding from TD as it enables the college to continue providing wraparound supports to Indigenous students in trades, allowing them to build successful careers,” says college president, Dr. Lane Trotter. “Additionally, this grant will help us establish an inclusive learning environment that celebrates Indigenous cultures and fosters even more opportunities for students to thrive.”

The grant from TD will be used over the next three years to support an Indigenous Coordinator, program development, outreach, networking for students, and wrap-around supports such as student fees, books, supplies, housing, transportation, childcare, assistance with tools and protective equipment as needed for work, cultural activities, and training.

“I am grateful to the sponsors and staff of the Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training Initiative for supporting my studies, allowing me to fully concentrate on my education without worrying about financial stress. The accessibility of the funds without bureaucracy is truly appreciated - this help brings me closer to my career goal!”

- MAKENZIE KWAKSISTALA, ELECTRICAL TRADES STUDENT AT CAMOSUN.

“Indigenous students face unique challenges in pursuing education, and we are committed to providing them with the personalized support they need to succeed,” says Larry Underwood, Coordinator, Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training Initiative, Camosun College. “We are thrilled to receive this funding, as it will not only benefit our students, but also address the growing need for skilled tradespeople in our community and beyond.”

“We are proud to support this incredible program at Camosun, which empowers learners and provides them with the resources they need to succeed in their future careers,” says Keetah McBeath, Associate Vice President, Indigenous Banking Group at TD. “Through the TD Ready Commitment, our corporate citizenship platform, our goal is to help people preparefor the jobs of tomorrow by investing in training, entrepreneurship and small business.”

The Empowering Indigenous Students in Trades program is an important step towards building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Canadians, and Camosun is grateful to TD for its partnership and support.