Culinary arts, hospitality, and tourism management will soon be on the menu for a group of Indigenous learners from the Songhees Nation.
Camosun College is partnering with the Songhees Nation to bring an education program to its community. Specifically, to twenty-four Indigenous learners.
“The partnership between Songhees Nation and Camosun College breaks down barriers to education for many learners by actually delivering skills training in the community,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.
“Investing in education programs for Indigenous learners helps make sure we all take our place in British Columbia’s thriving economy and growing workforce.”
With $655,000 in funding over two years, the project is part of the Aboriginal Community-Based Training Partnerships Program.
Kitchen and Food Truck Ready to Be Utilized
https://www.instagram.com/p/BFAYMXhB4va/?taken-by=songheesseafood
Gary Sam, councillor, Songhees Nation and director, Songhees Seafood and Steam, said, “We designed the Songhees Wellness Centre to include a fully equipped commercial kitchen, as career opportunities in the culinary arts were part of our vision.”
“In partnership with Clipper Navigation and under the direction of Chef [David] Roger, in 2016, we [also] launched our food truck, Songhees Seafood and Steam.”
Numerous Certifications Await
The Aboriginal Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Tourism Management program will provide students with Professional Cook level 1 certification (an Industry Training Authority trades designation), two applied tourism and hospitality courses, and numerous third-party certificates related to the industry and work placement upon completion.
Learners will benefit from a full range of educational and wraparound services – including cultural elements and Elder supports to ensure student success.
The program funding is provided by the Province of British Columbia and the Government of Canada, through the Canada-British Columbia Job Fund.
