Indigenous Cultural and Events Coordinator

**The Opportunity**

Reporting to the Director of Indigenous Enagagement the Indigenous Cultural and Events Coordinator, will be based in Johnson Cobbe on the 4th floor with the Office of Indigenous Engagement team, located on SAIT’s main campus.

The Indigenous Cultural and Events Coordinator plays a key support role in ensuring culturally respectful, inclusive, and diverse programming is available to Indigenous students and the SAIT community. Grounded in principles of respect, relationship, and reciprocity, this role works closely with Natoysopoyiis, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Cultural Advisors from Treaty 7 Nations and the Métis Nation to facilitate cultural and spiritual programming, events, and ceremonies that support students’ cultural connection, wellness, and community building. The Indigenous Cultural and Events Coordinator will also work in collaboration with Corporate Services, Communications, Marketing and various other internal and external people.

It is important to note that this position does not lead or deliver ceremonies. Those responsibilities remain with the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Cultural Advisors who have been entrusted with these teachings through years of mentorship and recognition within their communities. The coordinator ensures that these respected individuals are supported, that proper protocols are upheld, and that students have access to diverse Indigenous knowledge, languages, and practices in a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment.

**The Role**:
- Support the coordination and logistics of cultural and spiritual programming within Natoysopoyiis and SAIT, including ceremonies, knowledge-sharing sessions, traditional arts and crafts, language sessions, and other culturally significant events (Indigenous Graduation Celebration and Annual Pow Wow).
- Engage and collaborate with a diverse range of Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Cultural Advisors to ensure programming reflects the diverse teachings, languages, and traditions of the Treaty 7 Nations and Métis Nation.
- Organize and promote Indigenous cultural sessions for students and SAIT that enhances access to cultural supports, teachings, and community connection.
- Provide support to students seeking access to cultural and spiritual supports by ensuring they are connected with the appropriate Elders, Knowledge Keepers, or cultural facilitators, and by ensuring a welcoming, safe, and culturally grounded environment.
- Ensure that all events and programming adhere to cultural protocols, respect the teachings shared, and provide a safe and welcoming space for Indigenous students and SAIT community members.
- Collaborate with SAIT departments, Student Services, and external Indigenous community organizations to support integrated, culturally appropriate programming and ensure seamless connections for students seeking support.
- The coordinator will play an important role in fostering an environment where Indigenous students and SAIT community can engage with their culture, languages, and traditions in meaningful and respectful ways. By supporting Elders and Knowledge Keepers to share their teachings, this position contributes to the broader goal of increasing cultural awareness, understanding, and reconciliation within the SAIT community.

**Qualifications**:
- Degree /Diploma in social sciences, education, social work, humanities, or a related field, with a minimum of three years’ experience working with Indigenous peoples, ideally in an educational setting. A bachelor’s degree is preferred.
- Strong understanding of, and positive relationship with, Indigenous cultures, communities, and histories, particularly those of Treaty 7 Nations and the Métis Nation.
- Knowledge of the unique needs and experiences of Indigenous students in post-secondary environments.
- Demonstrated ability to build respectful relationships with Indigenous students, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members.
- Strong communication, organization, and time management skills, with the ability to balance multiple priorities.
- Strong public speaking and presentation skills, with cultural humility and respect.
- Experience working in an Indigenous organization or community-driven environment is considered an asset.
- Ability to facilitate the KAIROS Blanket Exercise is considered an asset.
- High level of professionalism, transparency, and confidentiality when working with students, Elders, community members, staff, and faculty.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, including maintaining open, respectful communication and fostering a positive team environment.
- Flexibility, patience, empathy, versatility, and adaptability when supporting students and programming needs.
- Crisis management skills are considered an asset.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and comfort with administrative systems.
- Ability to meet deadlines while demonstrating a strong commitment to task completion and follow-through.In addition, the incumbe