The journey to Halifax, Nova Scotia from Niagara College’s Welland Campus covers 1,740 kilometres, four provinces and takes approximately 20 hours of driving time (and more than a few coffee breaks). But for members of NC’s Indigenous Education team, the trip was about much more than distance travelled, it was about the College’s commitment to Indigenous student success.
In May, NC’s Indigenous Education and Transition Coordinator, Sandra Mandamin, and Indigenous Student Success Leader, Jeanine Bruinsma, made the trek to Halifax, Nova Scotia – travelling in style in IE’s branded recruitment vehicle – to connect with Indigenous youth from across Canada at Soaring: Indigenous Youth Empowerment Gathering, a national event focused on helping First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students explore post-secondary pathways, career opportunities, and future possibilities.
Indigenous Student Success Leader, Jeanine Bruinsma (left), speaks to a student at the Soaring Youth Gathering.
“Soaring is an annual event that brings together First Nations, Inuit, and Métis high school students across the country,” said Mandamin. “It was amazing to connect with so many young people and learn about their goals for the future. Many had never heard of Niagara College, which made it especially meaningful to share who we are, what we offer and how we can help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.”
As part of the event’s Career and Education Fair, Mandamin and Bruinsma met with students interested in learning more about NC programs and the supports available to Indigenous learners. Those conversations often centred on belonging, community, and access to culturally relevant resources.
“One of the questions we were asked most often was about the supports available to Indigenous learners,” said Mandamin. “Students want to know they’ll feel welcomed, supported and connected to a community that understands their needs. They’re looking for guidance throughout their educational journey, and it was important for us to share the services, resources, and culturally relevant supports available at NC.”
NC’s presence at Soaring extended beyond participation in the Career and Education Fair. As a Presentation Sponsor, it reinforced its commitment to supporting Indigenous youth and expanding access to post-secondary opportunities for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis learners across Canada.
This commitment was also reflected in its IE’s visual identity which was front and centre throughout the gathering. Featured on recruitment materials and the department’s vehicle, which was funded through the Embark Student Foundation and the Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project, IE’s imagery and artwork was a visible expression of representation and helped spark conversations while highlighting how the College celebrates Indigenous cultures, identities, and experiences.
“Representation matters. Identity matters,” said Mandamin. “The artwork, materials, and conversations we shared were opportunities to demonstrate that Niagara College values Indigenous learners and is committed to creating an environment where students can see themselves reflected and supported.”
While events like Soaring help raise awareness of Niagara College among prospective students, they also play a significant role in building relationships with Indigenous communities across Canada. The national gathering provided an opportunity to engage with Indigenous youth from communities spanning every region of the country, helping expand awareness of Niagara College and its programs well beyond Ontario.
Beyond recruitment, Mandamin views participation in events like Soaring as an investment in long-term relationship building.
“Trust takes time. Relationships take time,” she said. “You can’t just show up and expect immediate results. It’s about creating awareness, building connections, and becoming a familiar presence. Hopefully, over time, we’ll see those relationships grow.”
For Bruinsma, the experience reinforced the importance of sharing NC’s evolving network of Indigenous supports and services.
“We still have work to do, but I’m proud of the progress we’ve made,” she said. “We have a fantastic Indigenous Education team who work hard to develop strong partnerships across the College and within the community, and we are here to help students navigate every aspect of college life, from financial aid and housing to cultural supports and student success.”
Participation in Soaring is one example of how NC continues to invest in Indigenous student recruitment, engagement, and success. The College remains committed to advancing access to post-secondary education opportunities for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit learners and supporting Indigenous youth as they pursue their educational and career goals. By meeting students where they are, listening to their experiences, and building relationships rooted in trust and respect, the College is helping ensure Indigenous learners across Canada know there is a place for them at NC, one where their identities are celebrated, their cultures are respected, and their potential is supported.
