Explore UM

Indigenous student supports

More than 2,500 First Nations, Métis and Inuit students are already pursuing their goals at UM and you can too. Experience outstanding programming, a variety of academic options and amazing travel opportunities.

At the University of Manitoba, we're committed to providing a learning environment that promotes Indigenous success. In this supportive environment, you'll build friendships and connections that last a lifetime.

Join a welcoming and supportive Indigenous community at UM. Watch as fourth year student Raven talks about the supports she’s accessed and benefitted from, including the Blankstein Momentum Program and the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment.

Several Indigenous students sitting together outdoors at a picnic table laughing and talking.

Indigenous Student Centre

You'll find a caring, supportive environment and staff who are eager to share their knowledge and guidance at the Indigenous Student Centre (ISC).

Talk with an Elder-in-Residence about your personal journey. Meet with an Indigenous student advisor for advice on your studies, finances or career through the Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program, or explore your leadership goals in the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment (ISC).

Support programs

Ease the transition into university with the Access Program. Small class sizes allow you to build lasting relationships and develop a strong peer support network. It’s just one of several programs to help you succeed. Others include the Engineering Access Program, the Pathway to Indigenous Nursing Education, Indigenous Business Education Partners and more.

“People here are our own cheerleaders, our big sisters and brothers, our little sisters and brothers. It’s hard to know where you belong and can feel safe. It’s here.”
– Kristin Flattery, Anishinaabe/Dakota, Faculty of Education

Qualico Bridge to Success

The Qualico Bridge to Success Program (QTBS) is here to help you transition into your first year of study at UM. QTBS offers pre-orientation activities, academic learning support, advising, peer mentoring and special events at no cost.

“I have made friends who are driven like me and mentors who I learn from every day. I know that because of this program, I am able to go through the rest of my degree with confidence and success.”
– Zoe Quill, Cree, Faculty of Science

Indigenous Circle of Empowerment

Develop strong leadership skills, connect with your culture and discover your strengths with the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment (ICE). ICE is a second-year and up student leadership development program rooted in culture and focused on self-development and community engagement. You’ll have the opportunity to expand your network, volunteer in the community, and work on impactful projects.

“Being a part of ICE has been an amazing experience. Not only have I grown as a leader in so many ways through meeting and learning from other Indigenous leaders in my community, but I have also been able to further connect with my Indigenous culture even further.”
– Gillian McIvor, Max Rady College of Medicine

Ongomiizwin Education

If you’re pursuing one of UM’s health professional programs, Ongomiizwin Education provides a welcoming space to support you through your academic journey.

Located on the Bannatyne campus under the direction of Elder-in-Residence Margaret Lavalee, Ongomiizwiin Education offers a variety of programs and teaching sessions to meet the needs of students and to educate the university community about First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities and cultures.

Wellness

Health and wellness play a critical role in your success. UM offers a wide-range of services to support you as you work to balance your academic and personal lives. The Health and Wellness Office is a judgement-free space that is here to help you take control of your own health and make your own decisions throughout your academic journey at UM.

“I struggled with balancing the stress of life, school and health. It’s important that as students we learn it’s okay not to be okay. Reaching out for help and getting involved involved in my culture were the best decisions I made. I’m thriving this year, now that I’ve learned new coping skills, management tools and have the support of the Indigenous community.”
– Kirsten Fleury, Métis, Faculty of Science.

Child care

If you require childcare during your studies, UM has a licensed daycare centre that provides quality child care right on campus. The Campus Children’s Centre is a welcoming environment that celebrates a diversity of cultures and weaves traditional teachings into its curriculum.

Priority is given to Indigenous students. Care is available for children three months to six years. Be sure to register early, as spots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Access Program students study in Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge.
Three students seated together at a table looking at a laptop.
An image of 3 Indigenous students standing outside the Migizii Agamik Bald Eagle Lodge on a summer day, smiling.
Three students gather at a table with an Elder.
Kristen Fleury stands together with the Metis University Students Association.
A man and woman sit on the floor with their two children playing with toys at a daycare.
Two students study together inside Migizii Agamik.

​​​​Mentorship

The Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program helps first-year students transition to university life by promoting student engagement and a sense of belonging on campus. Connect with current students and familiarize yourself with campus with the support of a mentor.

An exterior view of University Centre.

Student clubs

Connecting with other students is an invaluable way of navigating your academic journey and feeling a sense of community during your studies. Several groups have been established by and for Indigenous students. Join them to explore peer-to-peer support as well as resources for academic, financial, emotional and spiritual needs.

 

Participants of Orange Shirt Day march together at the University of Manitoba Fort Garry campus.

Reconciliation

The University of Manitoba is committed to the journey of Reconciliation and to advancing Indigenous rights, research and scholarship. Explore the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, which houses the largest collection of Indigenous oral history and documents on the residential school system and its legacy in the country.

Carter Wilson.
Alumnus Carter Wilson went for it when he steered one of the first large-scale, Indigenous business events ever hosted at the Asper School of Business. It allowed him to share an Indigenous perspective—and the unique barriers faced—with non-Indigenous students. And he continued to raise this dialogue in classrooms and bring his leadership to student groups across campus.
It is by facing challenges that I grow the most. It pushes me to grow as a person, personally and academically. Throughout my career now, I consistently want to find challenges.
Carter Wilson Peguis First Nation, MB, Asper School of Business

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Contact us

Indigenous student recruitment
Migizii Agamik
114 Sidney Smith Street
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2

indigenous_recruitment@umanitoba.ca
204-474-6398