Career Resources for Indigenous Students
The KPU Career Development Centre is committed to ensuring all students have access to information that will help them make informed career and employment decisions. The Career Development Centre encourages Indigenous students and alumni to make an appointment with a Career Coach. We can work together for a more diverse and inclusive labour market.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Research Council’s Indigenous Student Employment program
Calling all Indigenous students! Are you considering a career in science, research and development? The NRC’s Indigenous Student Employment program provides hands-on experience to help you develop your knowledge and skills in this area. Work terms are also offered in fields such as: business, technology, computer science, communications, Library science, trades, human resources and administration.
Click here to apply!
Indigenous Counselling Services Available
KPU Counselling and Indigenous Student Services are delighted to announce that an Indigenous counsellor, Natashia Pellatt, is available to provide culturally attuned counselling services to students who identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, Métis).
To arrange a first open dialogue with Natashia, email counsellor@kpu.ca or call 604-599-2828 (between 9:00 am – 4:00 pm).
Career Resources
These guides are designed to raise the awareness of First Nations youth and their families about career possibilities, and to show examples of how to navigate education and training pathways to those careers.
ACCESS provides training and employment services to Indigenous people living in Greater Vancouver.
Indigenous Careers
Indigenous Careers connects First Nations, Inuit & Métis with inclusive employers across Canada.
Indigenous Peoples in Trades
Skilled Trades BC's (formerly ITABC) Indigenous Initiatives team works closely with Indigenous communities, Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) holders, training providers and employers across B.C. to make trades training accessible to rural and urban communities.
The FNHA works to support the development of a culturally safe workforce for First Nations people. This includes increasing the number of First Nations people in health careers.
There are many public-service-wide job opportunities available to you, as well as opportunities run by specific departments and agencies. Click here to learn more about these opportunities.
Explore your options and build your career using the websites and services on this page: pursue post-secondary education; get funding for your education; gain work experience and job skills; create or expand your own business.
KPU Resources
Indigenous Engagement Librarian - Rachel Chong, Liaison Librarian. A Liaison Librarian is a subject specialist, and knows the resources in your area of study best.
Indigenous Entrepreneurship - There are unique challenges and opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs. The resources here are specifically collected to help Indigenous Peoples (in Canada or America) navigate the legal and financial aspects of entrepreneurship.
The Gathering Place - The Gathering Place is a space that supports the social and educational activities associated with attending KPU in an environment that recognizes the important contribution of the Kwantlen, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Qay'Qayt, Katzie, and all other Indigenous Nations.
Indigenous Student Self-Identification - Self-Identification will assist KPU with the tracking of university participation and completion rates for Indigenous students and its overall strategic goals of providing a learning environment that is accessible and responsive to the needs of Indigenous students and Indigenous communities.
Indigenous Services for Students - Indigenous Services for Students is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of students.
Elder in Residence - In 2015, KPU appointed its first Elder in Residence, Lekeyten of the Kwantlen First Nation. In his role, Lekeyten supports Indigenous students on their educational journey sharing knowledge, traditions, teachings, and promoting an understanding and respect for Indigenous perspectives, cultures, and values.
Bursaries, Awards and Scholarships - Financial Help on Your Career Journey
Indspire - Since 2004, Indspire has provided over $115 million in financial support to more than 37,500 First Nations, Inuit and Métis students.
The Irving K Barber BC Scholarship Society - The Society offers Indigenous Award Programs for students pursuing post-secondary education in BC.
New Relationship Trust - The New Relationship Trust (NRT) is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening First Nations in BC through capacity building.
Health Sciences Association - HSA provides two $1500 bursaries to Indigenous students from BC who are continuing or proceeding in any HSA-related field.
First Citizens Fund Student Bursary - This Student Bursary Program provides funding to students of Aboriginal ancestry to help support their post-secondary education.
For additional financial awards, including those specific to KPU, please visit the KPU Indigenous Services Scholarships & Awards page: kpu.ca/indigenous/awards
Financial Literacy
Decoda Literacy Solutions - Culturally relevant financial literacy resources developed by Indigenous people for Indigenous people.
RBC Financial Literacy for Indigenous Peoples Course - The RBC Financial Literacy for Indigenous Peoples Course was created in response to calls from residential school survivors and First Nations youth who recommended financial training as a means to maximizing the benefits of financial compensation.
Need help with your job search? Review the career resources page or book a Career Coaching appointment with a Career Coach to help you with every step of your job search and career path!
Events
6 Oct Community Impact Career Showcase 2026 Tue, Oct 6, 2026, 10 AM - 2 PM Location: KPU Surrey, 12666 72 Ave, Surrey, BC Students and Alumni Create meaningful connections with organizations across various industries and learn about careers that better communities by attending CICS! You will be able to talk to organizations directly, have 1-on-1 chats with representatives, and learn about work experience opportunities. All registered attendees who meet with at least 5 employers will have a chance to win one of our door prizes! Cost: FREE! Employers Connect with hundreds of KPU students and alumni who are looking for impactful employment and volunteer opportunities this fall! This is a great opportunity for your team to showcase your organization and let students and alumni know why it is a great place to work! Sponsorship provides you with an opportunity to...
Image 2 Feb Trades and Technology Career Fair 2027 Tue, Feb 2, 2027, 10 AM - 1 PM Location: KPU Tech, 5500 180 St, Surrey BC Trades Students and Alumni The Trades and Technology Career Fair at KPU is a chance for KPU Trades students to connect with top employers in the trades industry. Whether you're looking for your first job or seeking new opportunities, this event Gives you direct access to potential employers eager to hire skilled trades professionals. Don’t miss out on networking, career advice, and exciting job openings! Cost: FREE Employers The Trades and Technology Career Fair connects employers with skilled trades students and recent graduates. Secure your spot to meet top talent, network, and find your next hire. Don't miss this opportunity to grow your workforce and support the future of the trades industry! Sponsorship provides you with an opportunity...
Image 9 Mar Career Day 2027 Tue, Mar 9, 2027, 10 AM - Wed, Mar 10, 2027, 12 PM Location: KPU Richmond (Day 1) and KPU Surrey (Day 2) Students and Alumni Create meaningful connections with organizations across various industries and find your next employment or volunteer opportunity by attending Career Day! You will be able to talk to employers directly, have 1-on-1 chats and interviews with representatives. All registered attendees who meet with at least 5 employers will have a chance to win one of our door prizes! Cost: FREE! Employers Connect with hundreds of KPU students and alumni who are eagerly looking for employment and volunteer opportunities this spring! This is a great opportunity for your team to showcase your organization and let students and alumni know why it is a great place to work! Sponsorship provides you with an opportunity to showcase your...