Indigenous Peoples Trades Training, Camosun College

⭐️💫✨Week 5-12 for our Students ✨💫⭐️

👉🏾1 Day Cedar weaving workshop 🌳 🌲

Karla Joe from Cowichan came to share her knowledge, wisdom and ways of how she was taught about Cedar weaving. Karla shared with our students the process of how to harvest cedar so it can be prepped for weaving. She also shared that "When handling cedar one must have an open heart ❤️ open mind 🧠 because the cedar is alive, if you have to take a break and go for a walk, do some breathing techniques "

🙏🏾 A trades sampler program yes!! But still including a cultural portion for our students is a must, to ensure they have a spiritual connection, to rejuvenate their indigenous identity, to know that they belong, because we're a family and have to look out for each and hold each accountable 🙌 🫶🏾

😎 Students made 👉🏾 baskets 🧺 , mini hats 🧢 , bracelets, head bands out of traditionally stripped Red Cedar 🌲

🙏🏾 Thank you- Karla Joe 💕

✨⭐️ 💫Week 4 of our 2024 Summer Trades Sampler Program✨⭐️💫

Our students have a had a few weeks to learn new routines, adjust to campus life 🙌 📕 They have been equipped with everything they need to jump into a new trade after 🪚 Carpentry 🔨 with our instructor Brady Janzen.

👉🏾 😎 Fine Furniture 🪑 Instructor-Beth Grayer

🗣️ Beth spent 3 days showing our students demonstrations on each of the machines in the fine furniture shop, as well as walked the students through on how to build cedar/maple & oak boxes. Students also had the opportunity to use the glow forge machine for there lids on there boxes 😎 In which the machine uses the students design and burns into the wood the design of a students choosing. 🌲 🌳

🌟Our 2024 summer Trades Sampler cohort are nearly completed there 3rd week, they got their hands dirty with small wooden projects. 🪚🔨Now they have built a shed with a roof top that is structurally sound, with stairs added on as well and was graded by our Red Seal Carpentry instructor Brady Jansen😉👌🏿 💪🏾

🌟 ✨ Student Feature ✨🌟
👉🏾Cheyenne Johnson

Cheyenne came to us.... because she wanted to to reshape her career after spending almost 7 years in the kitchen industry as a dishwasher whom she was inspired by her first chef she worked with Desiree Perrin. Her new passion grew from all of her experiences from the 5 chefs that tutored her. Today she's dedicating her time to be the next female chef at " church and state" where she works at in her time off away from school.

Cheyenne found the courage to meet with our team of coordinators and advisors and hasn't looked back since. Attending the sampler program " this has been the greatest opportunity for me right now" as she pushes herself forward in life to new heights and goals 🙌

Cheyenne plans to peruse her growing passion for the culinary arts and wants to be " 💪🏾 the toughest female chef in the indigenous community ". Her long term goal is to be a woman of many talents, which includes fields such as: red seal chef, mental health advocate, and photography, also in addition she plans to help the homeless and those stuck in addiction by combining all of her talents. 👩‍🍳

👀 A few weeks ago they joined a Trades program and were strangers who have never met before, now they are working as a team, helping each other and holding each other accountable, because we all know in the trades industry we cannot do this alone 🙌 🎉 🤳 End of the day class photo 📸

☀️☔️Our 2024 Summer Trades Sampler cohort are in there 3rd week and are in work/student mode, ready for each trade that we put in front of them.🛠️🪚

📚🛠️⏰🚌🚗As our students settle into being on campus, get to know each other, helping each other adjust. They have made personal work benches, cedar clocks, wooden carry all (for tools), a traditional deer hide drum and beaded lanyards . Also they have had the pleasure of working along our Carpentry instructor Brady Janzen, as they complete there shed they're building . As he guides them safely into there new life as students of Camosun college, they are enjoying every minute of it and loving it as well 🫶🏾 🙌

Here are some snapshots 📸 🤳 of our 2024 Indigenous Trades 12 week Sampler class 😊 👏🏽🥳

🎉🥳🎊 Our summer 2024 Trades Sampler is up and running, after 8 full days of fun filled learning, exploring, and adjusting to campus life . 🎉🥳🎊🙌

Trades our students will participate in: Carpentry🔨 Fine furniture 🪑 Culinary arts 🧑‍🍳 Automotive 🚗 , Electrical ⚡️ Pipe trades

Day 1➡️ Introduction to campus, a tour, and meet the rest of the cohort and team for 12 weeks of training and cultural involvement/activities. 🛠️🪚 🛶

Day 2 ➡️ We had a Willow tree side table workshop, each student took home a table/stool🌲 painted 🎨 stained and/personalized.

Day 3/4 ➡️ Students made personalized Cedar clocks as starter projects to work on, introduction to power tools and trades math 🕰️ 👀⏱️

Day 5➡️ Brother Rick came and shared his knowledge,voice, and time with us to show the cohort how to make a 12 inch Traditional deer 🦌 hide drums 🎶🗣️🔈

Day 6 ➡️ Life skills- providing knowledge, awareness and the tools for our indigenous cohort transitioning into the life of a college student in the trades industry.

Da 7/8 ➡️ After a few days of adjustment to campus, students are introduced to there first Trade 👉🏾. Carpentry and they're framing a few sheds and standing up walls 🔨 🪚👓

🎉 Happy New Year Everyone! 🎉

As we step into 2024, we're filled with excitement and anticipation for the incredible journey that lies ahead. 🌟 May this year bring an abundance of joy, new knowledge, and unforgettable experiences to each and every one of you!

🎓 We are thrilled to announce that we've just welcomed our first batch of trade sampler students for 2024! 🚀 The energy and enthusiasm they've brought in this week have been absolutely contagious. 🔥

📸 Here are some snapshots capturing the memorable moments of their first week. From the eager faces to the hands-on activities, every moment is a step towards a future filled with growth and accomplishment.

🌐 We can't wait to see the remarkable progress and achievements that await our students in the coming months. Here's to a year of learning, development, and success! 🌈

Stay tuned for more updates, adventures, and stories from our incredible journey together in 2024. Let's make this year one to remember! 🥳

🌿 Last Friday, December 8th, our Professional Cook 2 students embarked on a culinary journey, delving into the universal concept of "Food is Medicine" from an Indigenous perspective. 🍽️

🔥 Led by our talented Indigenous Professional Cook 2 students Samuel Charlie, Elliott Charlie-Edwards, and Keelan Williams, alongside their dedicated Co-Learners, the evening unfolded with a feast directed by tradition and passion.

👨‍🍳 The event, served Family Style at Long Tables, created an atmosphere of closeness and familial connection, emphasizing the importance of food as a unifying force.

🌾 We are incredibly proud of our Indigenous professional cook students and extend our heartfelt gratitude to their co-learners, instructors, helpers, and especially Chef David Lang - Chair of Camosun Culinary Arts.

🎉 A special highlight was the surprise presence of Chef Andrew George, the first Indigenous Red Seal Professional Cook, who traveled from Vancouver to support and share his invaluable experience with our students. 🌟

🙏 We express our deepest thanks to everyone who attended and became an integral part of this special event. Your presence contributed to the success of the evening, making it a memorable and enriching experience for all. 🌈 🍂

🌟✨ The Journey Continues: Paddle Unveiling at Lansdowne Campus! ✨🌟

We gathered once again, this time at our Lansdowne Campus, to continue the tradition of unveiling 7 paddles—a collaborative masterpiece crafted by the talented students and instructors of IPTT (Indigenous People in Trades Training) at Camosun College.

Guided by the skilled hands of Francis Wilson, a respected Cowichan canoe builder, our Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training students showcased their dedication and craftsmanship in creating these extraordinary paddles. Each piece is a unique expression of art, reflecting the depth of talent and cultural richness within our community.

Adding a touch of brilliance to these paddles is the original artwork by Camosun alum and Coast Salish artist, Dylan Thomas. His creations bring forth a profound connection to the traditions and heritage of our Indigenous communities, making these paddles not just artistic expressions but embodiments of cultural pride.

This event marks a significant chapter—a celebration of continuity and a reiteration of our commitment to recognizing and honoring Indigenous creativity within the Camosun College community. Colleagues, leaders, department representatives, Indigenous knowledge keepers, and our incredible Indigenous students came together once more for this collective appreciation.

As we share these moments from our Lansdowne Campus, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this event. Together, we continue to build upon our shared journey, fostering an environment that cherishes diversity, inclusivity, and the vibrant cultural tapestry that defines Camosun College. 🌐🤝

Last week, our 23F Trade Sampler Program (TSP) students embarked on a unique journey filled with rhythm, creativity, and connection at our Drum Making event. 🥁❤️

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to not only our incredible students but also to our dedicated instructors and supportive friends who made this event even more special. Your enthusiasm and vibrant energy were invaluable in creating this unforgettable experience. 🙌

May the beat of these drums continue to inspire and connect everyone in beautiful ways. 🎶🤝

Stay tuned for more exciting events that celebrate our shared love for culture, art, and togetherness. We can't wait to make more memories with this amazing community! 🤗🌈

🚛💪They've got a mix of nerves and excitement, but our 23F TSP awesome students are rocking the Heavy Duty Trades challenge. 📚💄

🛶Our enthusiastic students are harnessing their skills and creativity to craft more beautiful paddles, adding their unique touch to this timeless tradition. 🖌️🪵

🎓🌟 Celebrating Our 2023 Summer IPTT Trades Sampler Graduates Today! 🌟🎓

Today is a day of celebration! 🎉🥳

We gather with hearts full of pride to honor the hard work and dedication of our incredible 2023 Summer IPTT Trades Sampler Students. These remarkable individuals have not only studied hard but have also gained invaluable hands-on experience in various trades, setting the stage for promising careers ahead. 🛠️📚

🥂👏As we sit down for a special meal together, let's reflect on the journey these graduates have undertaken and the bright futures that await them. 🍽️🌠

We are immensely proud of their accomplishments, and today, we wish them all the best as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. 🌟

To our graduates, please remember that our support remains unwavering. Our doors are always open for you, and we're here to help you navigate the exciting path that lies ahead. 🚪💪

Last Friday, on September 15th, Camosun College witnessed a momentous occasion that brought together our college community, esteemed leaders, department representatives, Indigenous knowledge keepers, and our incredible Indigenous students.

We unveiled the stunning paddles created by our Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training students, under the guidance of Francis Wilson, a respected Cowichan canoe builder. These paddles are a testament to the incredible talent and dedication of our students.

What makes these paddles even more extraordinary is the original artwork adorning them, masterfully crafted by Camosun alum and Coast Salish artist, Dylan Thomas. His work adds a deep cultural richness to these pieces, honoring the traditions and heritage of our Indigenous communities.

This event was not just a celebration of artistry but also a profound acknowledgment of the importance of Indigenous culture and knowledge within our college. It's a step towards greater understanding, respect, and unity.

We invite you to take a closer look at some pictures from this memorable event, and we thank everyone who made it a resounding success. Together, we are committed to fostering a community that values diversity, inclusivity, and the rich tapestry of cultures that make Camosun College so special.

🌟Our 23F Trades Sampler Students just had a thrilling taste of sheet metal work, and this is just the beginning of their exciting journey through various trades in our program! 🎉

📚🔧 Welcome Trade Sampler Students 2023F! 🔧📚

We're thrilled to announce the start of an incredible journey for our Trade Sampler students this Fall, as they kick off their first week of learning and exploration. 🎉💼

One of the highlights of this term is the opportunity to study Math with none other than Karynn Scott, a passionate and highly skilled Red Seal Welder! 🧮🔥

Karynn's new book, "Trade Skills for Success: Numeracy," is not your typical math experience. 📖✨ Say goodbye to boring equations and hello to exciting, hands-on activities that will make math come alive! 🚀

Yesterday was an exciting day for our students as they embarked on a memorable field trip to Nitinat Hatchery. 🚌🌊

Our young learners had the opportunity to dive into the world of aquatic life and conservation, gaining firsthand knowledge about the critical role hatcheries play in preserving and restoring our local ecosystems. 🌍🐠

A huge thank you to the staff at Nitinat Hatchery for their warm welcome and informative presentations. 🙏

Stay tuned for more updates on our educational adventures! 📸📚

🌟 Wondering what our amazing students are up to? 🌟

They're on a journey of fantastic learning! 📚💡

🚗💥 The past few days have been all about hands-on experiences, with our students getting their hands dirty and minds engaged in the art of automotive mastery. 🛠️🚙

🔗🔧Our students wowed us with their creativity in turning pipes into unique coat hangers 🧥✨ Check out the attached pictures for snapshots of their innovative work! 📸

🌟 Our students are up in the air – quite literally – having a blast studying scissor lifts! 🚀✨

🔢📚 Embracing Numeracy Skills: An Interesting Journey! 🔢📚

It’s time to highlight an inspiring learning adventure in numeracy that our IPTT students have had the privilege to experience firsthand. 🧮✨

In collaboration with the passionate and talented red seal welder, Karynn Scott, our students have delved into the world of numbers through her new book, "Trade Skills for Success: Numeracy"! 📘🔗

Karynn's innovative teaching methods have transformed the way numeracy is perceived. Through creative techniques, she's made math not only accessible but also exciting. Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone eager to enhance numeracy skills, this book is a true gem🔥

Link to the book: https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/tradeskillsforsuccessnumeracy/

🪑✨This week, we're diving into the world of fine furniture with our talented students during our exciting Fine Furniture Week. 🪑💡

🌈👕 Tie-Dye Magic Unveiled! Our Colorful Creations are Here! 👕🌈

Just a while ago was an absolute blast as we gathered with the incredibly talented Debra McDonald to create our very own tie-dye t-shirts! 🎨💫 And today, the moment we've all been eagerly waiting for has arrived - we finally get to see our masterpieces! 🙌🎉

🌈 From swirls and spirals to bursts of vibrant hues, our t-shirts truly reflect the uniqueness of our personalities. 😍🎨

A special shoutout to Debra McDonald for her guidance and expertise throughout the workshop. Your artistic touch and passion for tie-dyeing truly inspired us all! 🙏🎨

It's incredible to see how a simple white t-shirt can transform into a wearable work of art! 🌟 The tie-dye magic has certainly left a mark on us, and we can't wait to proudly showcase our student's and friends' creations. 💖✨

🔥 Welding Week Ignites at IPTT! 🔥

Our talented students have kicked off the much-awaited Welding Week! 🔨🎉

From sparks flying to metal shaping, this week is all about mastering the art of welding. Our students are diving headfirst into the world of welding, and their dedication and enthusiasm are truly inspiring! 💪💥

Welding is not just a skill; it's a powerful craft that brings ideas to life. As they learn the ropes, our students are discovering the magic of turning raw materials into something extraordinary. 🔧✨

We're proud to witness their growth and passion during this hands-on experience. It's incredible to see them take on challenges, collaborate, and create remarkable pieces together. 🤝🎨

To our students: Weld on with confidence and keep pushing the boundaries of your creativity! We believe in you, and we can't wait to see what remarkable projects you'll bring to life this Welding Week! 🚀🔥

🥁✨ Such an Incredible Drum-Making Event! ✨🥁

What a fantastic way to end the week and revitalize ourselves with boundless energy! On July 28, IPTT hosted an awe-inspiring drum-making event, and it turned out to be an experience we'll cherish forever. The event brought together our talented trades sampler students, colleagues, and friends, creating a vibrant and united atmosphere.

The heart and soul of the event were none other than the esteemed knowledge keepers, Brother Raymond Peter and Henry Joseph Chipps, who guided us through this profound journey. As we embarked on the process of crafting drums, we were immersed in a deeply meaningful experience.

For Indigenous people in present-day Canada, drums hold a significance that surpasses their role as mere communication tools and musical instruments. They are revered as powerful tools that forge an everlasting connection with all living beings and the Creator. This sacred understanding added a profound layer of significance to the entire event, making it all the more special.
As we shaped the drums, we couldn't help but feel a profound sense of respect and appreciation for the cultural heritage tied to these instruments. The rhythmic beats that emanated from our drumming circles seemed to resonate with the very essence of our souls, as if echoing the wisdom and stories passed down through generations.

The drum-making event not only provided us with the opportunity to craft unique musical instruments but also fostered a sense of community and unity. Working alongside our fellow students, colleagues, and friends, we shared laughter, stories, and a newfound appreciation for Indigenous traditions and customs.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Brother Raymond Peter and Henry Joseph Chipps for graciously sharing their wisdom and knowledge with us. Their presence and guidance added an invaluable depth to the experience and helped us forge a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture.

🎓🛠️ In our trades sampler program, our students get the best of both worlds! 🌟

Not only do they get to explore and experience various trades, but we also make sure to infuse the program with cultural and fun activities to create a well-rounded experience. 🎉💫

🎨🌈 Today was a blast as our students dove into the world of tie-dye with the amazing Debra McDonald! 🎉 With over 20 years of experience, her passion for art truly shined through.

We had a fantastic time creating vibrant masterpieces and sharing loads of laughter. 😄🎉 Not only did we have fun, but we also learned so much about the art of tie-dye.

Can't wait to see the finished products! Stay tuned for some seriously groovy creations coming your way soon! 🌟👕