By Alison Wale, Capacity Building Coordinator
Since 2020, I have been Uu-a-thluk’s Fisheries Capacity Building Coordinator (CBC). As the CBC, I am dedicated to supporting Nuu-chah-nulth community members, from adults to children, with a range of training and educational opportunities.
I would like to share a few of the exciting programs Uu-a-thluk offers annually, as well as some feedback I have received from our participants. Nuu-chah-nulth peoples share a deep, spiritual connection to the ocean, and I am truly honoured to help facilitate opportunities that strengthen this bond.
“Through Uu-a-thluk I was able to take my Swiftwater Rescue Training, which allowed me to take my students to the water to cold water bath, allowing clarity in hard times,” said Tamiko Rampanen, former Nuu-chah-nulth Education Worker based in School District (SD) 70.
Youth and science
One of Uu-a-thluk’s key partnerships in capacity building is with the University of Victoria’s Science Venture program, which allows us to deliver six week-long Youth Summer Science Camps in Nuu-chah-nulth territory. These camps introduce students to STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and math) through hands-on activities, making learning both engaging and enjoyable.
Additionally, we collaborate with Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s (DFO) deep-sea research team and the Northeast Pacific Deep-Sea Expedition Project partners to provide a unique opportunity for students. Through live-streaming, youth have the chance to connect with scientists aboard the CCGS John P. Tully research vessel as they study hydrothermal vents, seamounts and marine life in marine protected areas.
Each summer since 2019, Uu-a-thluk also offers one Nuu-chah-nulth member the rare opportunity to join the Tully research team on board the vessel for one to two weeks. This “once-in-a-lifetime” experience allows the participant to learn from leading marine scientists while gaining invaluable experience in ocean research.
Each year brings discoveries of new species or previously unobserved animal behaviours – don’t miss out on the opportunity to see this with your own eyes. Please reach out to me if you think you might be interested in this year’s expedition!
Training for community members
In addition to youth-focused programs, Uu-a-thluk is committed to providing training opportunities for adult community members. If you or someone you know is interested in marine safety training or other marine-related certifications, please contact me and I will ensure that you are added to our training list.
Ditidaht First Nation’s Amanda Joyce Seymour is a community member who has benefitted from our
training opportunities.
“You are never too old to learn something new … the water safety certificate and Captains Bootcamp
certifications have broadened my employment opportunities,” said Seymour.
Strengthening connections through traditional practices
Every spring, Uu-a-thluk partners with SD 70, the Alberni Valley Enhancement Society and DFO’s
Salmon Enhancement Program to deliver the “Gently Down the Creek” program. The program sees students raise salmon fry in their classrooms and later release them into Kitsuksis Creek.
This initiative allows youth to learn about the Nuu-chahnulth concept of hishukish ts’awalk—everything is connected—during a guided forest walk which is part of the program. Uu-a-thluk staff share traditional knowledge and foster a deeper connection between the youth and the natural world, while also sparking interest in environmental sciences.
Fishery Technician Internships
Summertime is when Uu-a-thluk offers our exciting Fisheries Intern opportunity. The internship allows individuals to work alongside experienced fisheries biologists, gaining hands-on experience in the field. Interns also have the chance to hone their communications and writing skills and attend
meetings.
We are anticipating hiring an intern later this year – please reach out to me for more information if you are interested.
“My experience with Uu-a-thluk felt like a new path opening in my life. It helped me find a new, enjoyable future career I could pursue,” said Isaiah Dick, Uu-a- thluk’s 2023 Fisheries Intern and Tseshaht First Nation member.
If you are interested in learning more about any of the opportunities mentioned above, please reach out to me, Alison Wale, at 250-735-5684 (call or text) or email alison.wale@nuuchahnulth.org or add me on Facebook @AlisonWaleUuathluk.
