Event highlights Indigenous-led pathways in child well-being, education, and social work
Algoma University’s Office of the Nyaagaaniid and School of Social Work recently hosted the Gi’ga-ozhichigemin Gathering: “Together, We Will Do It!”. The two-day event, held at Algoma’s Sault Ste. Marie campus, brought together First Nations leaders, educators, and community partners to advance Indigenous-led approaches to child well-being, education, and social work training.
Funded through the Ontario Postsecondary Access and Inclusion Program (OPAIP), the Gi’ga-ozhichigemin Gathering brought together community leaders, educators, and social work professionals to strengthen Indigenous access and transition into postsecondary education. Hosted by Algoma University, the event reflected the University’s commitment to reconciliation, decolonization, and anti-oppressive practice through relationship-building and community-driven curriculum development, featuring discussions on Indigenous-led education, child well-being, blended learning, and culturally grounded approaches to social work.
Throughout the two days, participants explored community-led pathways to support Indigenous learners and self-determined education systems. The gathering provided space for shared reflection, reaffirming that reconciliation must move beyond symbolic action to include structural change.
“The Gi’ga-ozhichigemin Gathering showed us what’s possible when we come together in the spirit of partnership and respect,” said Dr. Deb Woodman (she/her), Associate Professor and Director, School of Social Work, Algoma University. “This gathering was an opportunity for us to listen and consider how we can collaborate on the Bachelor of Social Work to create something new and meaningful that will reflect the real changes happening within Indigenous communities, particularly in reference to Child and Family Wellbeing”.
As the University continues to grow its Indigenous programming and deepen partnerships across Northern Ontario, events like the Gi’ga-ozhichigemin Gathering stand as a testament to the transformative power of collective leadership.
To learn about the School of Social Work, visit algomau.ca.
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