NIC’s Indigenizing International Education Plan, Journeying Together, Wins Another Award

The Office of Indigenous Education and the Office of Global Engagement at North Island College have been chosen as the recipient of this year's national Reconciliation & Internationalization Award of Excellence.

“Guidance from diverse Indigenous-community partners globally provides rich perspectives on what it means to be Indigenous-serving. These partnerships facilitate exchange of ideas, experiences, and mutual support with the aim to advance a sense of solidarity among Indigenous communities and like-minded institutions world-wide,” said Mark Herringer, Executive Director, International Education, Office of Global Engagement.

“Implementation of Journeying Together truly needs to be centered on the journey rather than the destination, as we transform international education from a process founded in colonial principles to one guided by the knowledge, cultural traditions and aspirations of Indigenous communities.”

It was presented by the Canadian Bureau for International Education for the College’s plan, Journeying Together.

The award recognizes leadership and initiative in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous communities through international education on campus.

Earlier this year, Journeying Together was honoured with an award at the College and Institutes Canada World Congress, receiving a bronze award.

The vision of the plan to weave Indigenization with international education is rooted in North Island College’s collective commitment to become a truly Indigenous-serving institution.

The goal, as outlined in the plan, is to leave a legacy of hope that aligns with the beliefs and aspirations of the Indigenous people and the communities they serve.

NIC’s plan is considered the first of its kind in Canada. It was developed starting at a symposium in 2022 with guidance from NIC Elders, Indigenous community members on the Indigenous Education Council at NIC, which includes representatives from 35 Nations, and Indigenous leaders within NIC.

To watch a video about Journeying Together, see the NiC YouTube channel.