Job Description

About the Nikaniwin Program

"Nikaniwin," meaning "being in the lead" in Cree, is a culturally grounded mentorship program for Indigenous youth aged 8-12. Through community and school-based sessions, the program focuses on cultural teachings, physical activity, life skill development, and leadership-building. It is co-developed and delivered by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saskatoon (BBBS) and Indigenous Sport Saskatchewan (ISS).

Position Overview

The

Nikaniwin Program Assistant

will lead the delivery of group mentorship sessions for Indigenous youth in schools and community settings in Saskatoon. They will support youth in connecting to their culture, building confidence, and developing leadership and life skills. This position plays a crucial role in creating a safe, engaging, and culturally relevant space for youth, while supporting broader goals of reconciliation and community leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Facilitate group mentorship sessions following the Nikaniwin curriculum (includes cultural teachings, physical activity, and life skill-building)

Coordinate logistics for school-based and community-based program delivery

Maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally safe environment for youth

Build and maintain positive relationships with schools, youth, families, and community partners

Track attendance and support program evaluation activities (data entry, surveys, etc.)

Support volunteer mentors and liaise with the BBBS team as needed

Attend SCC's Art of Work training sessions and contribute to national learning activities

Qualifications & Requirements

Must be

between 18-30 years old

at the time of hiring (Art of Work eligibility)

Must be a

Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person with protected status

Must be

legally entitled to work in Canada

Experience working with youth

in a mentorship, coaching, education, or recreation role

Strong knowledge or lived experience with

Indigenous cultures and protocols

Mature, responsible, and reliable

, with strong interpersonal and organizational skills

Must be

available weekday evenings (3-8pm)

and

occasional weekends

Must have a

valid driver's license

and access to reliable transportation

Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening

is required

Comfortable facilitating group activities and working independently

Additional Information

This position is funded through the

Students Commission of Canada's Art of Work initiative

, supported by ESDC and the CIBC Foundation.

The role contributes to the national Art of Work program and includes opportunities for professional development, networking, and impact measurement.

The successful applicant will sign a written employment agreement outlining responsibilities, timelines, and conditions of employment in line with SCC's requirements.

We Encourage Applications From

Indigenous youth and young adults

Individuals with lived experience in mentorship or community engagement

People committed to supporting Indigenous youth in culturally affirming ways

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Expected hours: 15 - 35 per week

Application question(s):

Are you between18 and 30 years? (This is required by the Art of Work grant that is funding this position.) This job requires availability from 3-5:30 Monday to Thursday as well as some evenings and occasionally a weekend (with notice). Please note your availability.
Work Location: In person