JEDI — Indigenous Internship Program

Indigenous Internship Program (IIP)

The Indigenous Internship Program (IIP) aims to facilitate job placements for recent Indigenous post-secondary graduates by collaborating with host organizations. These internships help participants gain valuable on-the-job experience and skills to secure full-time employment in their field of study.

Comprehensive Guide to the Indigenous Internship Program (IIP)

The Indigenous Internship Program (IIP) is a strategic initiative designed to offer recent Indigenous post-secondary graduates a sturdy bridge into the workforce. Managed by the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI), this program stands as a testament to the collective effort of multiple sectors, including federal and provincial governments, private entities, and Indigenous communities. The ultimate objective is to cultivate a skilled, confident, and robust Indigenous workforce that can seamlessly integrate into various professional environments.

Objective and Vision

The vision of the IIP is to create sustainable economic development by empowering Indigenous graduates with real-world experience. By doing so, it ensures that Indigenous talent is not only recognized but also given a platform to thrive and showcase its capabilities. Through partnerships with different host organizations, the IIP aims to provide meaningful employment opportunities that align with the graduates' fields of study.

Host Organizations: Who Can Participate?

The program is designed to be inclusive yet discerning in its selection of host organizations. The following entities are eligible to host an Indigenous intern: - Provincial and Federal government departments and agencies - Crown Corporations - Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) - Not-for-profit organizations - Indigenous communities and organizations - JEDI's industry partners By collaborating with these organizations, the IIP ensures a diverse range of opportunities are available, catering to various professional domains and skill sets.

Becoming a Host Organization: Application Process

Organizations interested in becoming a host must provide a detailed application to JEDI. Here are the key elements required in the application: 1. **Letter of Interest**: A comprehensive letter describing the organization's motivation and readiness to host an intern. 2. **Orientation Plan**: A structured plan outlining how the intern will be introduced to the organization's culture, policies, and working environment. 3. **Work Plan**: A detailed work plan that includes anticipated learning outcomes and skill development opportunities for the intern. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, emphasizing the necessity for potential hosts to submit their applications promptly.

Intern Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the IIP, applicants must meet the following criteria: - **Indigenous Status**: Must be of Indigenous descent. - **Educational Qualification**: Hold a post-secondary degree or diploma from a recognized institution, with a preference for those with a university degree. Graduation must have occurred within the last three years. - **Employment Status**: Currently unemployed or underemployed. - **Legal Eligibility**: Must be legally eligible to work in Canada. Interns not only gain hands-on experience but also benefit from the guidance and mentorship provided by experienced professionals in their chosen field.

Application Process for Interns

Interns can apply in two ways: independently or through partnership with a potential host organization. Here are the steps involved: 1. **Resume Submission**: An up-to-date resume detailing the applicant's skills, education, and work experience. 2. **Cover Letter**: A cover letter expressing their interest in the program and outlining why they are a good fit. 3. If applying independently, **List of Potential Employers**: Interns should include a list of organizations they are interested in working with. Both employer and intern applications should be sent to JEDI’s Provincial Indigenous Employment Coordinator, Nisa Kennedy, via email at: Nisa.Kennedy@jedinb.ca.

Review and Approval Process

Due to limited funds, not all applications will be accepted. JEDI, along with the IIP Working Group, reviews the applications biannually. The process is rigorous to ensure that the selected organizations and interns align well with the program’s objectives. The IIP Working Group, which meets at least twice a year, plays a crucial role in monitoring the program’s progress and providing recommendations for improvement.

Benefits of Participation

- **For Interns**: The program offers invaluable work experience, skill enhancement, and greater employability. By engaging in real-world projects, interns can build a professional network and potentially secure full-time employment. - **For Host Organizations**: Businesses gain access to fresh talent, diverse perspectives, and the opportunity to contribute to Indigenous economic development. Moreover, it fosters a culture of inclusivity and corporate social responsibility within the organization.

Conclusion

The Indigenous Internship Program (IIP) stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for Indigenous graduates in New Brunswick. It is more than an internship; it is a pathway to shaping a prosperous and inclusive future. By participating in the IIP, both host organizations and interns can make significant strides towards achieving greater economic development and workforce integration. For more information on the IIP, please contact JEDI at 1-506-444-5650, 1-888-884-9870, or email info@jedinb.ca.