FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: An important update regarding our offices during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Learn More

Head Office Staff on Orange Shirt Day September 30, 2020 – A Path to Healing & Reconciliation.
Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong works with First Nations to develop their workforce strategic plans through the provision of funding, programs and services. Projects are aimed at assisting community members attain and maintain current employment opportunities and prepare for future employment initiatives. Specific projects include basic, occupational or specialized industry skills training, on the job work experience and employment maintenance.
Do you have a career goal, but lack the skills or experience to obtain a job in your chosen field?Our program coordinators can help guide you and develop an action plan to acquire the skills you need. Whether it’s classroom training you require, or on-the-job placement training, our programs are here to help you succeed.
Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong supports individuals who demonstrate a keen interest in self employment as a means of creating self employment and promoting additional Aboriginal employment. Program support is available to eligible SE participants in the form of ongoing technical advice, guidance, training and information on available financial and non-financial resources for business start-up and development while on the program.
If you are a Youth, a variety of programs and services are available to assist you in your career goals, education plans and employment goals including entrepreneurship. Programs are available for high-school, post-secondary and Youth seeking industry recognized training, career related work experience or job readiness. There are other programs available for Group or events aimed at Youth.

Word of the Day

awaswaabang

"The day after tomorrow"

Gidapiitenimin

I am proud of you

Success with Shooniyaa Wa‑Biitong

Vanessa Big George,

Naongashiing First Nation

Vanessa Big George, a member of Naongashiing First Nation started her business “Esthetics by Vee” while on the Self Employment Program. Her interest was sparked after she completed the Esthetics Program at Seven Generations Education Institute. Vanessa started her business as a Mobile unit, travelling to First Nation communities, events, and as requested by many patrons. She was able to secure a shop in the Nanicost building.

The focus of her business is esthetics, spa-rty’s and Self-care workshops. Some of her services and products include: 1) Body Waxing; 2) Professional Makeup; 3) Nail Care; and 4) Facial & Massages. There are additional costs for mobile esthetics services and a mileage charge for trips outside of Fort Frances.

There was some difficulty in maintaining her shop during the COVID 19 pandemic therefore Vanessa took on employment at a local community until it is safe to deliver the services her business provides.

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Events & Training

Recognition banqet

Each year Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong holds a Recognition Banquet in one of our communities for successful clients and the winners of the Youth Bursary Awards.

The Recognition Awards recognizes and honours the achievements of individuals who participated in programs offered through Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong. Training is just one stop of life-long learning. It is our job to help individuals to take steps towards achieving their career goals. Many overcame obstacles, some leaving their home communities to pursue their dreams. The achievers represent the dreams and aspirations of all our clients.

Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong encourages and support students who are striving to excel in a field of their interest and to recognize students for their academic performance through the Youth Achievers Bursary Award Program.

There are bursary awards in categories that recognize students in the areas of academic, attendance, community volunteer/service, sports, cultural areas in addition to a speech/essay poster contest. A total of 20 bursaries are awarded.