Winnipeg, MB - Today, Indigenous youth demonstrated newly acquired skills which could pave the way for them to pursue careers with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service as firefighters, paramedics or 911 call-takers. Wrapping up a weeklong career camp, participants competed in a physically demanding rodeo requiring them to complete an obstacle course which included simulating resuscitation on a patient, balancing on a beam, and accurately tossing and hitting a target with a firehose.
The career week was coordinated in partnership with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service and Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak, the City of Winnipeg's Indigenous Youth Strategy.
“The City of Winnipeg is very proud to provide opportunities for Indigenous youth through the Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak strategy,” said Councillor Mike Pagtakhan. “These youth have worked hard over the past week and are leaving with some important skills which will benefit them both in future careers and in their lives in general.”
In addition to the physical experiences throughout the week, participants heard from Indigenous firefighters, paramedics, and other role models. Each day began with a traditional prayer, smudge and teaching, and ended with a sharing circle. Youth received employable skills including: CPR and First Aid certificates, Safe Workers of Tomorrow training, along with fire safety and extinguisher training.
“The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service was honoured to have hosted this group of exceptional Indigenous youth this week, each of whom should be celebrated for their achievements,” said Chief John Lane, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service. “It is our hope that some of this week’s participants may consider a career with the WFPS in the future.”
Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak provides Indigenous youth with 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 and self-sustainability.