Programs
Indigenous Student Services provides a number of programs for First Nations, Inuit, Metis, Canadian Indigenous students (or those who identify by nation or community) at TMU.
Indigenous Foundations Program for Indigenous community members
The Indigenous Foundations Program is designed to accommodate those who may have obligations during the day, with classes offered for three hours, one evening a week, for thirteen weeks. The program will focus on upgrading writing and critical-thinking skills for Indigenous individuals interested in entering bridging (through Spanning the Gaps), certificate, or continuing education programs, or upgrading academic skills towards greater success at the post-secondary level.
The Indigenous Foundations Program runs annually at the beginning of the calendar year. Learn more about the Indigenous Foundations Program through the Chang School of Continuing Education website.
Who should apply
- Indigenous community members who seek the necessary writing and critical-thinking skills to enter into bridging, certificate, or continuing education programs at the university level, or to improve their academic skills towards greater personal achievement.
- Indigenous professionals who are seeking to upgrade their writing skills and may be interested in broadening their professional development through continuing education programs within a university environment.
- Indigenous university students who are looking to upgrade their essay and critical-thinking skills toward greater academic success.
Get in touch with the Indigenous Foundations Program team
To gain further information about the program and how to apply, please contact:
Diana Simone
Indigenous Learning Support Facilitator
Email: dsimone@torontomu.ca
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 553326
The Indigenous Peer Support Program is dynamic and made up of Indigenous students at TMU who conduct outreach and provide peer support to other Indigenous students on-campus.
The Peer Support team can provide you with information and resources about our educational, social and cultural events. You can also learn how to get involved and connected with the Indigenous community at TMU.
All Indigenous, Métis and Inuit students are eligible and welcome to participate in the program.
Get in touch with the Indigenous Peer Support team
Room: Kerr Hall West, 372
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 556660
Email: abpeers@torontomu.ca
Apply for a student staff position with the Indigenous Peer Support Program
The Peer Supporter Program aims to enhance the university experience of Indigenous students at TMU by supporting their adjustment and transition to university life. The program helps facilitate academic success, as well as positive social and personal growth. Peer Supporters provide opportunities for Indigenous students to access campus programs, networks and resources that enable them to benefit from a well-rounded university experience.
Peer Supporters will:
- Serve as a positive role models and support systems for Indigenous students
- Professionally communicate with students to offer assistance and valuable academic and social guidance
- Facilitate the active involvement of students in events
- Foster strong links between students and Indigenous Student Services
- Ensure confidentiality of students’ cases
- Demonstrate commitment to valuing diversity
Peer supporters are not counselors or teachers, but are important resources, friendly guides, organizers and referral points. They act in a professional manner with students. Peer supporters will initiate and remain in contact with their students to offer valuable assistance and guidance both socially and academically. They are dynamic event organizers, which enrich the network and knowledge of the Indigenous Student Community. In return, Peer Supporters will be provided with the opportunity for valuable hands-on work and leadership experiences, with formal leadership training.
Get in touch and apply to be a Peer
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 556660
Email: abpeers@torontomu.ca
Tea n Talk: Connect with fellow Indigenous students
Tea n Talk is a bi-weekly event hosted by Indigenous Students Services for students who identify as First Nations, Inuit, Metis, Canadian Indigenous (or those who identify by nation or community).
Students are encouraged to join us for fun activities and discussion within a casual environment. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet and connect with other Indigenous students as well as the dedicated Indigenous Student Services team.
Sessions take place weekly during the fall and winter semesters and bi-weekly during the spring and summer semesters. Learn more and join the next gathering.
Writing workshops and support for Indigenous students at TMU
Indigenous Student Services’ Indigenous Learning Support Facilitator is available to assist students one-on-one with their academic writing assignments from undergraduate to graduate-level studies. We offer a variety of workshops throughout the year to assist students with their writing assignments.
Workshop topics include essay writing and referencing, incorporating Indigenous knowledge into essay writing, time management and effective study habits as well as self-care and wellness for successful academic success.
Access writing support services
Date: Monday to Friday
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Get in touch with the Indigenous Learning Support team
To make an appointment for writing support services or to learn about upcoming workshops, please contact:
Diane Simone
Indigenous Learning Support Facilitator
Email: dsimone@torontomu.ca
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 553326
Sarena Johnson
Liaison, TMU Student Affairs
Email: sarena.johnson@torontomu.ca
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 552423
Cultural and traditional teachings for Indigenous students at TMU
Indigenous Student Services’ Cultural and Traditional Teachings Programs are aimed at complimenting, strengthening and supporting students by connecting them with Elders to receive traditional counseling and support.
The program also invites Traditional Teachers from the Indigenous community to share indigenous knowledge and traditions, to teach Indigenous history, culture and protocols.
Get in touch with the Cultural and Traditional Teachings Program team
Sheila Saikkonen
Administrative Assistant
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 557699
Email: ssaikkon@torontomu.ca
Additional programs for TMU students and Indigenous community members
The Laptop Loan Program provides access to laptops for Indigenous students to ensure computer and program access, which is required to complete schoolwork off-campus. You can sign out computers for a short term loan.
Learn more about the Library’s Laptop Loan Program.
The Certificate in Indigenous Knowledges and Experiences is a multidisciplinary exploration, analysis, and reflection on the experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada and their relationships with non-Indigenous peoples. This exploration aims to help develop an understanding of these experiences and relationships from many dimensions: historical, political, social, and arts- and health-related.
This certificate provides a broad orientation to Indigenous experiences in Canada and how Indigenous peoples have been impacted by laws, policies, and practices in the health, social services, human resources, and other sectors. Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, regardless of their academic or professional background, have the opportunity to learn about Indigenous lived experiences through curriculum from Indigenous perspectives taught by Indigenous scholars and experienced community teachers.
Learn more about the Indigenous Knowledges and Experiences Certificate Program through the Chang School of Continuing Education.
The Indigenous Community Outreach and Recruitment program is based on engaging the Indigenous community (both in Toronto and throughout the Province) in identifying how we can collaborate with and support their career, employment, training and education initiatives and programs.
It is associated with existing transition and support programs, involving several internal and external partners (within the Indigenous community, locally and provincially).
For general inquiries about this program please contact:
Sheila Saikkon
Administrative Assistant
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 7699
Fax: 416-598-5919
Email: ssaikkon@torontomu.ca