The Prince Edward Island government has renewed a four-year funding agreement with the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI to support employment and skills training for Indigenous people in the province.
The $1.67 million in funding through SkillsPEI will support 144 Indigenous participants across two programs. The project-based program provides personalized mentorship and hands-on experience through social enterprises to help participants develop transferable skills. The Workforce Essential Skills program offers practical learning experiences for adult learners within Lennox Island First Nation.
Both programs are run by the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI under the direction of the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils.
Program focus
The programs combine mentorship with practical work experience aimed at improving employment outcomes for Mi’kmaq and Indigenous community members.
“These programs demonstrate the value of tailored support and mentorship, as they offer pathways to employment, while providing meaningful personal and professional growth,” said Jenn Redmond, minister of workforce, advanced learning and population.
Community support
Junior Gould, chief of Abegweit First Nation, said the partnership benefits both individuals and the community. “By investing in programs that enhance employment and career pathways for First Nations and Indigenous Peoples, we can create a stronger workforce and economy for all,” he said.
Tabatha Bernard, chief of Lennox Island First Nation, said the Workplace Essential Skills program has provided learning opportunities for many community residents over the past 10 years.
“We appreciate the ongoing support to provide meaningful workplace and skills training opportunities for Mi’kmaq and Indigenous Peoples living in Epekwitk,” said Kateri Coade of the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI. “This agreement will allow us to build sustainable plans that provide meaningful interventions and training opportunities for each First Nation.”
