Indigenous Workplace Inclusion - Regional Readiness & Retention Strategy

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

This project will continue the Indigenous Workplace Inclusion - Readiness & Retention Strategy across nine North Superior First Nations by funding an Inclusion Officer to develop systems, community profiles, and workshops that connect job seekers, entrepreneurs, and employers while delivering tailored supports (skilled‑trade pathways, wellness, continuing education, elder assistance).

 

WHAT CAN THE INCLUSION PROGRAM DO?

 

INDIGENOUS JOB SEEKERS

AETS Support:

  • Individual employment and career planning
  • Resume, interview and job-search support
  • Connections to training, employers and employment opportunities
  • Workplace preparation and employment readiness
  • Advocacy and assistance addressing workplace barriers
  • Support navigating workplace expectations and relationships
  • Follow-up after employment begins
  • Connections to additional AETS, community and partner supports when appropriate

Intended Outcome:

Support meaningful employment where Indigenous employees have opportunities to remain, grow and succeed over the long term.

 

EMPLOYERS

AETS Support:

  • Inclusive recruitment and onboarding guidance
  • Indigenous workplace inclusion and cultural safety guidance
  • Identifying and addressing potential barriers within workplace practices
  • Practical recommendations to strengthen employee belonging and retention
  • Connections with qualified Indigenous job seekers
  • Guidance for developing respectful and sustainable employment relationships
  • Ongoing support following recruitment and placement

Intended Outcome:

Help employers build their own capacity for Indigenous workplace inclusion so that positive practices and relationships continue beyond an individual hire.

 

COMMUNITIES AND REGIONAL PARTNERS

AETS Support:

  • Building relationships among Indigenous communities, employers and regional partners
  • Connecting employment opportunities with local Indigenous talent
  • Identifying recurring barriers affecting Indigenous employment and workplace inclusion
  • Encouraging collaboration and information-sharing
  • Connecting individuals and employers with appropriate community and regional resources
  • Supporting coordinated approaches to recruitment, retention and workplace inclusion
  • Contributing to longer-term regional strategies that strengthen Indigenous participation in the labour market

Intended Outcome:

Strengthen relationships and create employment opportunities that benefit Indigenous individuals, families, communities, employers and the broader regional economy.

 

 

THE REGIONAL STRATEGY FOR INDIGENOUS WORKPLACE INCLUSION

COMING SOON!!      

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS

 
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WHY INDIGENOUS WORKPLACE INCLUSION MATTERS

Inclusive workplaces create stronger teams, improve employee belonging and retention, expand access to local talent, and support meaningful economic participation. For Indigenous employees, culturally safe workplaces can reduce barriers and create the conditions needed to grow, contribute and succeed over the long term.

 

AETS INCLUSION OFFICER

Amanda Sawatzky is the Inclusion Officer for the AETS Indigenous Workplace Inclusion Program, bringing a diverse background in Indigenous community services, program coordination, and community engagement. Throughout her career, Amanda has been committed to supporting Indigenous individuals, families, and communities through culturally responsive, strengths-based programming.

Prior to her current role, Amanda served as a Program Coordinator with AETS, leading both the Wellness Opportunities Initiative and the Age Well at Home Program, where she built strong relationships with community members and gained valuable experience delivering community-driven services. She also worked as part of an Urban Indigenous Outreach team in her home community of Baawating (Sault Ste. Marie), supporting First Nation communities along the North Shore of Lake Huron by connecting individuals and families with inclusive services and advocating for their needs.

As Inclusion Officer, Amanda is passionate about helping employers create culturally safe, respectful, and inclusive workplaces while supporting Indigenous job seekers in achieving meaningful, long-term employment. A proud mother of children who are members of Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek (Sand Point First Nation), Amanda's personal connection to the communities served by AETS strengthens her commitment to fostering opportunities where Indigenous people, businesses, and communities can thrive together.

 

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Inclusion Continuum | Indigenous Works

 

CONTACT US

  •  John DeGiacomo
    • Executive Director 
    • ed@aets.org
    • 807-346-0307 ext: 201
  • Amber Ogima
    • Operations Manager
    • amber.ogima@aets.org 
    • 807-346-0307 ext: 203
  • Amanda Sawatzky
    • Inclusion Officer
    • amanda.sawatzky@aets.org 
    • 807-346-0307 ext: 217

FUNDING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Ontario Ministry of Indigenous Affairs – Indigenous Economic Development Fund – Economic Diversification Grant (IEDF – EDG)