Culture, Language and Elder Programs Coordinator

ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation is looking for a full-time Culture, Language and Elder Programs Coordinator to join our team. Reporting to the Director of Member Services, this role will be responsible for the coordination, administration and provision of various programs that enhance, support and preserve ?akisqnuk ways, traditionally and with a future lens.

Elders are the foundation of First Nations’ families and communities and are the ‘Consultants’ for the Nation. AFN has always understood health and wellness as being grounded in a person's connections – their connections to language, the land, the culture, ceremony and the ancestors – and supported through their caring relationships with family, community and the environment. This position will ensure that programs and events support this.

ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation (″ʔAFN″) is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation. ʔAFN exists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team, through our own roles and departments, the ʔAFN Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan “Our Thinking” and continue to progress and move our community forward.

Note: This position is full-time with a set weekly schedule.

The primary responsibilities include:

· Develop and implement culture and language programs, collaborating with stakeholders.

· Plan and execute a language revitalization strategy for ?akisqnuk.

· Organize culture and language events, fostering partnerships with organizations.

· Facilitate land-based learning activities and cultural identity exploration.

· Lead culturally relevant educational programs on mental health, substance use, and family wellness.

· Facilitate youth development using Elder teachings.

· Coordinate the Elder Committee, manage schedules, and support Elders' needs.

· Create a resource library capturing cultural practices and guidelines.

· Organize Elder events, shopping trips, and report activities to the Community Wellness Director.

· Promote traditional knowledge in educational options for ?akisqnuk.

· Advocate for culture and language curriculum in K-12 education.

· Source experts, develop language programs, and procure teaching tools.

· Liaise with partners, survey community for input on events and cultural needs.

· Organize cultural awareness programs and draft guidelines for ?akisqnuk usage.

· Maintain program expenditure data and source funding opportunities.

· Prepare proposals and reports for funding agreements.

· Create and maintain a resource list for Language and culture.

· Attend staff meetings, contribute to continuous improvement, and fulfill assigned duties.

· Other duties as required.

Qualifications:

· Two years of experience and understanding of AFN approaches to wellbeing, and a knowledge of AFN history, perspectives, values and beliefs.

· Knowledge and ability to teach and provide use of traditional AFN protocol and traditional medicines, practices and ways.

· Knowledge of Ktunaxa Language and culture.

· Customer service skills when working with Nation members.

· Strong organizational and communication skills.

· Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

NOTE: A criminal check and vulnerable sector search will be conducted on the successful applicant

What we offer:

· Competitive pay ($50,000-$60,000 per year, depending on education and experience)

· Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, as determined by the Council each year

· Paid annual vacation

· Paid sick days

· Matched Registered Pension Plan program with employer matching up to 5.5% of the employee’s salary, available after 4 months of service

· Employer-paid Group Benefits which includes Life Insurance, Health and Dental benefits, Employee and Family Assistance Program, Short- and Long-Term Disability, available after 3 months of service

· Live and work in the most beautiful place in British Columbia

Akisqnuk supports a diverse and inclusive work environment and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. You must be legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: $50,000.00-$60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• What is your base salary expectation for this role?

Ability to Commute:

• Windermere, BC V0B 2L2 (required)

Work Location: In person