OAC Career Fair - October 28, 2024
Event Overview
Hosted by the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition, the 2024 Career Fair was an in-person event that connected job seekers with over 50 employers, including 10 Indigenous organizations from Ottawa.
Logistics
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Date:
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Time: 11AM - 5PM EST
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Venue: Ottawa Convention and Events Centre
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Address: 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa ON
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Parking: The venue offers free underground parking, while outdoor parking directly in front of the main entrance is paid only.
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Public Transit: O.C. Transpo #9 Hurdman and #9 Downtown
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Cost: FREE
Thank You For Attending the 2024 OAC Career Fair
The Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition's 2024 Career Fair was a success, and we couldn’t have done it without each and every one of you! From our amazing exhibitors and employers to the participants who brought so much energy and enthusiasm, we are deeply grateful.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, attended the workshops, explored the Indigenous Marketplace, and contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. Special thanks to our partners and volunteers for making this event possible!
We hope you left feeling inspired, connected, and ready for new opportunities. Stay tuned for more events, and let's keep building a strong community together!
With gratitude,
The Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition
What to Expect
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with employers from various sectors.
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Workshops: Attend informative sessions to enhance your job search skills.
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Resource Booths: Access support services and resources for job seekers.
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Prizes and Giveaways: Participate for a chance to win exciting prizes!
How to Prepare
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Bring Copies of Your Resume: Be ready to share your qualifications with potential employers.
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Dress Professionally: Make a great first impression!
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Research Participating Organizations: Familiarize yourself with the employers attending to tailor your conversations.
Workshops
Below is a preview of the workshops that were offered to attendees from the 2024 OAC Career Fair
1. Your Future in the Skilled Trades
Presented by: Richard Hayter, Stuart Simpson, and Kirby Whiteduck, Unionized Building and Construction Trades Council
Description: Participate in an informative workshop to launch your career in the skilled trades! Presenters will guide you through the constructiontradeshub.com website and explain how to become an apprentice—a valuable job opportunity. Learn to start your career debt-free, with access to lifelong learning and benefits. Seize this opportunity to shape your future!
Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm
2. Financial Literacy Session with CRA
Presented by: Md Nafizul Haque and Andria Cullen, Canada Revenue Agency
Description: Join the Canada Revenue Agency for a helpful session on understanding taxes, tailored for Indigenous communities. Learn about tax benefits, filing tips, and available resources to help you navigate the tax system with ease. This workshop is designed to empower and inform, ensuring you have the tools and support needed for managing your taxes.
Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm
3. SMART Local 47
Presented by: Stuart Simpson, Training Director
Description: Discover what a career with SMART Local 47 can offer! Join Stuart Simpson as he shares valuable insights into three different trades within our Union. Learn about competitive wages, benefits, and pension plans that support your future.
Time: 1pm - 2pm
4. Meet-and-Greet with the OAC Elders and Knowledge Keepers Circle
Presented by: Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition
Description: You are invited to a drop-in Meet-and-Greet with the OAC Elders and Knowledge Keepers Circle. Feel free to stop by, introduce yourself, and connect with the Elders and Knowledge Keepers over a cup of tea and some snacks. We are honored to work alongside respected Elders and Knowledge Keepers from diverse communities and backgrounds. Their invaluable insights greatly enrich the efforts of the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition and the broader Ottawa community.
Time: 1pm - 2pm
Registration Not Required
5. Employment and Indigenous Health
Presented by: Amber Caribou, WCG Services
Description: Explore the link between employment and health in Indigenous communities. Learn how stable, meaningful employment enhances physical and mental well-being while addressing systemic barriers. Gain insight into the role of culturally relevant education and training in reducing health disparities, and discover how we can improve the overall well-being of Indigenous peoples through meaningful employment initiatives.
Time: 1pm - 2pm
6. Ottawa Police Recruitment Information Session
Presented by: Cst. Abid Nasim and Cst. Selena Lefebvre, Ottawa Police Service
Description: Join this informative session with the Ottawa Police Service to explore career opportunities. OPS is hiring over 120 officers to serve our diverse community. The OPS team will share insights into the hiring process and answer your questions. Whether you're interested in law enforcement or just curious, this is a great chance to connect!
Time: 2:30pm - 3:30pm
7. Inuit Students Navigating Post-Secondary Applications for School and Funding
Presented by: Trudy and Pete, Inuuqatigiit Centre
Description: Join the Inuuqatigiit Centre’s Post Secondary Hub for an informative workshop designed to support Inuit students in Ottawa and the North as they navigate post-secondary applications.
Time: 2:30pm - 3:30pm
8. Job Search Journey
Presented by: Lydia Belanger, Kagita Mikam Aboriginal Employment and Training and Catherine Wagner, City of Ottawa Employment Ontario
Description: Engage in an interactive workshop designed to enhance your job search skills! In this session, we’ll guide you through the job search journey, helping you identify your goals and the skills needed to secure your desired job opportunity.
Time: 2:30 pm - 3:30pm
9. OAC Well-Being Workshop
Presented by: Antonio Strizzi, Jennifer San, and Ray Palluq, OAC Well-Being Workers
Description: Join the OAC Indigenous Well-Being Workers for a workshop that explores various aspects of wellness and provides tools to enhance your well-being. Participants will receive paint kits as part of the workshop.
Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
10. Building Your Career in Technical Services: Pathways to Success
Presented by: Samantha Setinas and Jacqueline Chan, Talent Acquisition Specialists at BGIS
Description: Join this informative workshop to explore exciting career pathways in HVAC and Building Automation! Our presenters will walk you through the key roles and growth opportunities in these fields and share practical advice on how to break into and grow in the industry.
Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Special Displays: Highlighting the Impactful Work of the OAC
Visitors explored our special displays at the Career Fair to learn more about the OAC and upcoming initiatives that aimed to further support Indigenous people living in Ottawa. Our featured exhibits included:
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The Minwaashin Lodge Family Healing Lodge
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Restoring the Strength of Inuit Women: Inuit VAW Shelter
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Building Urban Indigenous Ottawa
We encouraged attendees to explore these displays and gain a deeper understanding of the OAC's mission and the vital role it played in enhancing the well-being of Indigenous peoples in Ottawa.
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Who are the OAC member organizations?We invite you to view the members section on the OAC website here: https://www.ottawaaboriginalcoalition.ca/our-members
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Can anyone attend?Yes, the event is open to everyone! We welcome all individuals interested in exploring job opportunities, networking, and those looking to do some local shopping at the Indigenous Marketplace. Whether you're a job seeker, student, or simply looking to learn more about the resources available, we encourage you to join us!
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Can I Secure Space for a Booth?Unfortunately, we are currently at capacity and cannot accommodate additional booths at this time. However, you can join our waiting list in case of any cancellations. Please reach out to admincoordinator@ottawaaboriginalcoalition.ca to be added to the list. Thank you for your understanding!
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Is there an entry fee?No, there is no entry fee for the event. Attendance is free for all participants.
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How can we help promote the event?Please share the event posters through your distribution channels, communications, and social media. Every effort counts in helping us reach a broader audience and making this event a success! Thank you for your support.
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Will there be any Elder’s or Traditional Knowledge Keepers at the event?Yes, the Elders coming will be announced closer to the date of the event.
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Can I Volunteer for the Event?At this time, we are not accepting additional volunteers for the event. We appreciate your interest and support!