Indigenous supports
Our Indigenous Education team is here to support your journey. That means helping you to access advising or counselling services, connect with community mentors or take advantage of on-campus events and resources.
Connect with an Indigenous Education navigator
Our navigators have an open-door approach and will meet with you regardless of your registration status. We can:
- liaise on your behalf with instructors or contact Indigenous sponsorship organizations
- work with you to create your education plan at NIC and beyond
- arrange campus tours
- access other services and resources around campus
Counselling and well-being
We’re here to support your mental and emotional health – and our Indigenous counsellors have a special understanding of Indigenous mental health and traditions.
Indigenous Education Navigators
Luke George
Port Alberni campus
Luke comes from the Tseshaht community, and was raised in the territories of the Tseshaht and Hupacasath First Nations in Port Alberni. He has worked for National Parks and the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, and was an elected leader of his community. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Malaspina University College. He is happy to meet with students to discuss their dreams and goals.
Willow Hunt-Scott
Comox Valley campus
Willow has Kwaguł, Ma’amtagila, Taku River Tlingit, Alaskan Tlingit, and Clan Fraser of Lovat ancestral roots. She grew up in T̕sax̱is. She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in First Nations Studies.
Amanda Chickite
Campbell River campus
Amanda is Liqwiltokw and a member of the We Wai Kai First Nation. Amanda grew up in Cape Mudge Village and completed her Bachelors Degree in First Nations Studies from Vancouver Island University.
Rylee LaTrace
Campbell River campus
Rylee comes from a Cree and Anishinaabe family with roots in Saskatchewan and the Turtle Mountain Reserve of North Dakota. She was born and raised on Vancouver Island, and obtained an Indigenous Studies Diploma from Camosun College and then a Bachelor of Social Work Degree with an Indigenous Specialization from the University of Victoria. Rylee is studying to obtain her Master of Social Work with an Indigenous Specialization at UVIC.
Rebecca MacKenzie
Mixalakwila campus (Port Hardy)
Rebecca is a member of the ‘Namgis First Nation as well as having Scottish Canadian roots. She was raised in Chilliwack but has called some part of Vancouver Island home since 2005 and is happy to now call the North Island home. Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Arts in French, Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education and a Certificate and Diploma in Special Education from the University of Victoria.