For the third year in a row, AMIK Inc. is holding its National Indigenous Hiring Week (NIHW), encouraging businesses to look at an untapped workforce and talent stream.
“In previous years, AMIK’s NIHW has seen a diverse range of employer participation, ranging from government, mining, energy, banking and rail. With nearly 20 different employers signing up for NIHW over the years, we have seen a noticeable uptick in interest and Indigenous hiring in general across different sectors,” says Sherman Kong, Business Development & Industry Engagement Manager with AMIK.
The company offers a number of services including recruitment and retention and cultural sensitivity training. It is responsible for creating Canada’s first Indigenous job board in 2006. Over the years, it has helped to build strong relationships and workforces for companies such as Canada Life, Johnston Group, Air Canada, PCL, Assiniboine Credit Union and CN Rail.
“In some cases, our hiring initiatives have produced enough Indigenous inclusion to mirror the provincial Indigenous population,” adds Kong.
Amik has also put together resources for businesses who are looking to improve relations with Indigenous communities, hire a more diverse workforce or play a bigger role in the area of reconciliation and implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to action.
In 2015, AMIK partnered with Canada Life to create employment opportunities for Indigenous people but also a video series to help companies looking to engage the Indigenous community in a mutually respective manner. The videos give guidance to employers on where to start and help companies prepare for success when hiring more Indigenous employees in the workplace.
This year, some of the companies involved in NIHW include Anish Corporation, Me-Dian Credit Union, Shawenim Abinoojii Inc., Southeast CFS, Defence Construction Canada and the Province of Manitoba.
National Indigenous Hiring Week will take place between June 14-20 and is meant to coincide with National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st.
“We hope employers use this month to celebrate not only Indigenous people, but also the tremendous value they bring to Canada’s economy. Moreover, it provides employers with another opportunity to start or reaffirm their commitment to reconciliation and Call to Action #92,” adds Kong.
Businesses and potential participants can find out more information about NIHW and other services at amik.ca