Build From Within building on success

Build From Within is a teacher development program that supports Indigenous students' transition to post-secondary education.

The program is a partnership with Winnipeg School Division, Faculty of Education at the University of Winnipeg, and Indspire Canada. Students start in Grade 11 and complete their high school diploma, 300-hour Education Assistant Diploma, Bachelor of Arts and finish with a Bachelor of Education Degree.

In February 2022, Build From Within launched its third cohort with 25 new students. The program has 51 students enrolled across the three cohorts.

Desi-Rae Anderson, the Program Director for Build From Within said they are welcoming the new cohort to the program.

“The students demonstrate strong leadership qualities and an eagerness to learn," said Anderson.

"The goal, as we move forward with this new cohort, is to always create a culturally safe and inclusive learning environment."

Students in cohort three sat down to share their experiences and what Build From Within means to them. 

Grade 11 student Kayla Scott said, "I'm the first one in my family to graduate high school and go on to university. If it weren't for this program, I probably wouldn't."

Ocean Toews describes her ambition behind applying. "I want to be an influence on Indigenous education. Its important students learn about who they are."

The addition of a third cohort increases the number of Indigenous teachers across WSD. Students can see themselves represented, giving Indigenous youth more opportunities throughout schools in WSD, Winnipeg and Manitoba alike.

Ella Fleet-McMahon believes Build From Within is important for her and all the students in the program.

"We remember all our Indigenous teachers. It means a lot for Indigenous youth to see themselves represented in someone older,” said Fleet-McMahon.

“We start each day with circles, share stories and smudge. I will take inspiration from how our classrooms are being led."

"We feel like we can be ourselves here," said Red Sinclair, a student in cohort three.

Desi-Rae Anderson said the program focuses on creating a strong sense of community.

“When the students have a sense of belonging, have space to proudly explore and express their Indigenous identity and support one another, they are more likely to succeed in their academics and contributions to the community," said Anderson.

Along with adding a third cohort, WSD is expanding its Build From Within team with full-time Social Worker, Chantell Neff, to help support students.