Indigenous

Since 2021, the University of Manitoba (UM) has partnered with the Mastercard Foundation's EleV Program to transform Indigenous education through initiatives co-created with Indigenous students and communities. This includes the development of community-based Learning Hubs, enhancing supports for transition to post-secondary, creating opportunities to connect with culture and community, developing leadership skills and building pathways to employment and Mino Bimaadiziwin – meaning "the good life" in Anishinaabemowin.

Support Indigenous Student Success
Three smiling students standing at an outdoor booth during Indigenous Orientation, one holding a small art card.

Mino Bimaadiziwin

Co-creating with Indigenous Students & Communities

In their own words

Hear from students how working together can transform education and support Indigenous excellence for generations to come.

Tréchelle Bunn's headshot.
Indigenous Circle of Empowerment

ICE allowed me to gain confidence in myself as a leader while greatly enhancing my communication skills.

Tréchelle Bunn, ICE '22
https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience/indigenous-circle-empowermen…
Samantha Westlands's headshot.
Bison Spirit

As a first-year student far from home, Bison Spirit meant so much — good food, great people and something to look forward to each month.

Samantha Westlands, Sandy Bay First Nation, Ebb and Flow First Nation
https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience/bison-spirit
Student holding a sign that explains why the Post-Secondary Club is important, mentioning opportunities for Indigenous youth, spiritual collaboration, and access to resources at the University of Manitoba.
Post secondary club

It provides opportunities and resources for Indigenous youth and creates a supportive community for spiritual collaboration.

2025 Culture Camp Participants
https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/engagement/elev-partnership/post-secondary-club…
Group of five people standing indoors in front of a decorated Christmas tree, with two wearing colorful ribbon skirts.
THE LEARNING HUBS

When I talk with students, I hear stories like mine. Many fear leaving the community, but the Learning Hub gives us a safe place to learn at home.

Kristy Mekish Learner from Pine Creek
https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/engagement/elev-partnership/learning-hub#studen…
A group of 2025 Culture Camp participants standing together in front of a painted tipi at the camp site, smiling at the camera.
Where We First Stand Transition Summer Camp

I’m really glad I attended this camp—it gave me valuable skills, long-term support, and the chance to make great friends. 

Bree Racette, Ebb and Flow First Nation
https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/engagement/elev-partnership/where-we-first-stan…
Tréchelle Bunn's headshot.
Samantha Westlands's headshot.
Student holding a sign that explains why the Post-Secondary Club is important, mentioning opportunities for Indigenous youth, spiritual collaboration, and access to resources at the University of Manitoba.
Group of five people standing indoors in front of a decorated Christmas tree, with two wearing colorful ribbon skirts.
A group of 2025 Culture Camp participants standing together in front of a painted tipi at the camp site, smiling at the camera.

Transforming education

  • Learning Hubs

    57

    In 2023-24, 57 Indigenous students graduated from programs offered in their home communities.

  • Land and Water Teachings

    202

    More than 200 Indigenous learners have taken part in our Land and Water program, strengthening connection and relationship with place.

  • Youth Mentorship

    524

    Through the Indigenous Youth Mentorship Program, 524 middle, high-school and university students have accessed culturally-based, community-focused physical, nutrition and education activities.

  • Overall Outreach

    2,962

    Over 2,960 Indigenous students have engaged with programs and initiatives where they are recognized as agents of change.

Learn more
The University of Manitoba, with a growing Indigenous student body, holds reconciliation at the heart of its work. Its comprehensive, embedded approach reflects decades of work by Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Holders, students, faculty and staff. We committed to young Indigenous people that we would walk alongside them to transform post-secondary education in ways that support them to live a good life. This exemplary organization is contributing to that change and to a stronger country for us all.
Jennifer Brennan Senior Director, Canada Programs at the Mastercard Foundation
EleV partnerships logos.

EleV-funded initiatives

Performer presenting a hoop dance on stage at a community gathering, with audience members watching and clapping.

 

EleV Partnership highlights

Contact us

Community Partnerships
406-55 Chancellor’s Circle
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB R3T 5V6 Canada

Ruth.Shead@umanitoba.ca
Heather.McRae@umanitoba.ca
Jerilyn.Ducharme@umanitoba.ca
204-474-7425 (Heather McRae, Director of Community Partnerships)
204-881-1383 (Jeri Ducharme, Manager of Learning)