Building a Community of Support: Cohort 4 Joins the Build From Within Program

The Ozhitoon Onji Peenjiiee-Build From Within program, launched by Winnipeg School Division (WSD) in 2018, continues to empower Indigenous students and provide them with opportunities for academic and personal growth.

On September 25, 2024, R.B. Russell High School hosted a Welcoming event for the newest cohort of the Ozhitoon Onji Peenjiiee-Build From Within team students and their families. 

The students who attended the event expressed excitement and gratitude for being part of the program. One of the new students, Anaka Toews, said, "It was a warm and welcoming night. The room was filled with love and support for the new cohort. It was a great night to set off all these new future educators!"

But it wasn't just about the new kids on the block. Students from previous cohorts were there, too, sharing advice and teaching about Indigenous traditions. They even said a prayer in Anishinaabemowin, showing how crucial Indigenous culture is to the program. 

Speaking for the new group, Phoenix Harper felt proud to be there. He said, "I felt honoured to speak on behalf of Cohort 4 at our welcome celebration. It was excellent to see my peers' families, learn about my support system, learn more about Build from Within, and connect with new people. I thank everyone for coming."

One of the Build From Within program's key strengths is its ability to create a supportive and inclusive community for Indigenous students. 

Adrianna Roberts felt comforted, knowing there are people to help her along the way. She said, "The event was incredibly heart-warming. Hearing the voices of former cohorts, students from the newest cohort, and the voices of the higher-ups in the school division brought a sense of community building. The event brought me a sense of comfort, knowing that there are others there for me and who can help support me. This program has already been helping me so much so far in my social life. Socializing with others with similar interests and dreams creates a sense of belonging."

Desi-Rae Anderson, Program Coordinator, said, "These students have made an incredible commitment to pursuing a career in education. Cohort 4 will be completing their final year of high school at Argyle High School. In addition, they started their Educational Assistant Diploma through PACE UW. Next year, they will pursue their five-year Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees.

As part of the celebration, students and their families enjoyed a feast created by R.B. Russell Culinary students and staff. 

The senior students' words inspired Trayvon Iton Kennedy: "The welcoming cohort 4 dinner was amazing, with phenomenal food and a great atmosphere. The speakers from each of the (previous) cohorts instilled the idea of no procrastination and always working hard. It proves to me and others that they and the rest of Build From Within have our best interest in mind."

Students also had the opportunity to pass tobacco to the sacred fire, an essential tradition in Indigenous culture.

Madyson Oliver said, "I felt warm and at home at the event. It was like I've known everyone for years! I am inspired by all the wonderful folks I met that day, and I look forward to seeing how far my peers and I will come in this program."

This unique program helps students transition from high school to university and prepares them for successful careers in education. 

Quinn Proulx is thrilled to be part of the program; she says, "I was already extremely grateful for the opportunity to be in BFW, but after attending the celebration, I saw the amazing opportunity I have and the family I'm going to make. I can't wait for my journey and see what everyone's future holds."