Background Information
On behalf of the City of Winnipeg’s Indigenous Relations Division, we would like to extend our congratulations to the Eagle’s Nest Aboriginal Youth Program and Wichii Oskiiaga Youth Mentorship Program graduates. Thank you for including us in your celebrations, and best of luck in your future endeavours!
About Us
Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak, the City of Winnipeg's Indigenous Youth Strategy, was approved in late 2008 by City Council. We have been working with community and city partners to develop and deliver programs for Indigenous youth ever since!
Our Mission
To give Indigenous youth positive opportunities in the community and civic system by bridging and providing culturally appropriate programs and supports related to employment, literacy and recreation to increase resiliency, self-sustainability, pride and future opportunities.
Our Name
In a naming ceremony, Indigenous Elders gifted the spirit name of Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak (pronounced Awsh-kay Anish-a-nob-bay nee-ga-nee-walk), which means, “Young Indigenous People Leading” in Ojibway. This spirit name reminds all that youth are the leaders of today as well as tomorrow.
Our Principles
During the naming ceremony, Elders also gifted us with the guiding principles of caring, sharing, kindness and truth.
Our Symbol
Jasmine B., 15 years, created the symbol for Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak in 2010. She based her artwork on visions shared during the naming ceremony. These included young brown eagles with wings pointing down and a rainbow. Jasmine also incorporated equality, diversity and pride into her artwork, which are represented by the two equal eagles with different eye colour that are standing proud. Graham Constant digitized the symbol in 2011. Go to Symbol Design to learn more.
Why it's important
Indigenous youth are the fastest growing demographic in Winnipeg. In general, the Indigenous population in Winnipeg is younger than the general population with a 2006 median age of 25 versus almost 40 for the rest of Winnipeg!
As the youngest and fastest growing segment of our city, Indigenous youth hold a lot of our collective potential! Investing in Indigenous youth ensures the City of Winnipeg is laying a solid foundation to build a stronger tomorrow.
How we work
We partner! We partner with community partners who offer programs for or inclusive of Indigenous youth. We call this Stream One.
We also partner with civic departments to develop programs for Indigenous youth. In the past, these have included things like internships, scholarships, camps or other recreation programs! We call this Stream Two.
Printable Information Package
You can download our printable information package and guiding principles sheet. The first document contains background information on Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak, its partners and programs. The second document explains the four principles that were gifted to us by Elders and how they guide our work.
Download Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak Information Package
Download The 4 Guiding Principles
