Waabishkaa-Makwa: Where Art, Technology and Inspiration Meet

Waabishkaa-Makwa (full name Waabishkaa-Makwa Arts, Technology, Inspiration Lab) is the new cultural and educational hub at R.B. Russell Vocational High School that gives students and community members pathways to post-secondary education, trades training, career-building skills, entrepreneurial knowledge, and family wraparound supports.

Being the only public education space of its kind in Manitoba, Waabishkaa-Makwa connects culture, creativity, and technology in one place.

Rooted in Community Voice

The development of Waabishkaa-Makwa was guided by community need and shaped through meaningful engagement. Sylvia Martin, divisional principal for Career Lab at R.B. Russell said that throughout the design and planning process, the vision remained consistent: connecting students to their heritage while equipping them with industry-ready skills.

Marney Stapley, coordinator for Waabishkaa-Makwa, highlights that beyond the physical space, the lab is supported by partnerships and mentors who help “bring students’ gifts to life.” The space is grounded in a commitment to welcoming youth and community members into hands-on learning experiences that are rich in culture and connection.

Tools and Technology to Support Ideas

Waabishkaa-Makwa provides students with the tools, space, and guidance to bring ideas to life. The lab is designed to support projects that move across multiple rooms and equipment, reflecting real-world creative and technical workflows.

The space features a wide range of high-tech and specialized equipment, including knitting and embroidery machines, textile tools, 3D and large-format printers, Cricut machines, laser cutters, and a kiln. This range of equipment supports learning experiences where students can ideate, design, build, test, and refine using different resources within the lab.

Some of the projects already in the works include guitar making with R.B. Russell Vocational School, Children of the Earth High school, Elmwood High School, Argyle High School, and the Bear Clan Patrol; Ooshihtaahk workshops with a WSD Indigenous Ways of Life teacher; and evening artisan workshops for families and community members, all starting later this April.

The Meaning Behind Waabishkaa-Makwa

WSD Knowledge Keeper Elaine MayhamThe name Waabishkaa-Makwa was gifted through a naming ceremony led by WSD Knowledge Keeper Elaine Mayham and reflects teachings that guide the space. In Ojibwe tradition, Makwa (the bear) is known as a protector, healer, and teacher. The white bear represents a northern spirit that is watchful and protective year round.

These teachings are woven throughout the learning environment, shaping a space where students build skills while strengthening their sense of identity, belonging, and care for one another.

This meaning is also reflected in the artwork displayed in the hallways leading into the lab, developed by artist and WSD teacher, Cynthia Flett.

Connecting Schools Through Creativity

Waabishkaa-Makwa reflects Winnipeg School Division’s commitment to expanding real-world learning opportunities and creating environments where students can see themselves, their strengths, and their futures reflected in their learning.

“This space represents an important investment in how students learn best — by doing, creating, and solving real-world problems,” said Matt Henderson, WSD Superintendent. 

Not only is it a space for R.B. Russell students and the North End Community, but all Applied Technology instructors and schools from around the division can schedule a visit and plan learning sessions at Waabishkaa-Makwa for Middle and Senior Years students.

By bringing together culture, technology, and community, Waabishkaa-Makwa supports students in developing skills, exploring pathways, and building a strong foundation for what comes next. 

Interested in Waabishkaa-Makwa merchandise? Orders for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and polar bear ornaments, all crafted in the lab, can be placed online.