Indigenous Circles of Support and Leadership Program

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The Indigenous Circles of Support and Leadership Program (ICSLP) brings together students across all years of study, to eat, socialize and engage with community leaders and guest speakers. Each session will either have a guest speaker, activity or work shop from with the Indigenous Student Centre or from the Indigenous Community. The two hour sessions are split, one hour facilitated by the Indigenous Financial Aid Coordinator, Donna Noah and one hour for a guest speaker, workshop or activity

The ICSL Program also aims to engage students in extra-curricular activities to help them develop leadership skills. Students are to complete a total of 40 hours of extracurricular activities from five different categories: Indigenous Knowledge, Health and Well-Being, Academic, Career and Leadership Engagement. 

Upon completion of the ICSL Program student are able to add it to their Western University Official Co-Curricular Record.

Program Objectives:

  • Promote Indigenous Knowledge
  • Support identity development for Indigenous students
  • Support student success
  • Assist in student transition
  • Provide opportunities for cultural awareness
  • Create a sense of community among students
  • Introduce students to Westerns and London, ON local Indigenous communities and leaders
  • Enhance student engagement and sense of belonging
  • Create networks of supports
  • Build Indigenous specific leadership skills and values
  • Create Indigenous specific leadership models through ICSLP sessions
  • Enhance student leadership knowledge, skills and experience

Program Goals:

  • Model positive relationships
  • Build communication skills
  • Enhance conflict resolution skills
  • Help students become involved and connected with Western
  • Provide positive leadership
  • Develop and practice healthy relationship skills
  • Provide student opportunities to build new friendships
  • Shape Indigenous leaders within Western

Past Session Topics/Workshops:

  • Holistic Wellness
  • Essential Oils and their benefits to students
  • Traditional Medicines and Medicinal Teas
  • Self care and Stress Management
  • Cultural Teachings and Workshops
  • Cork Husk Doll Making
  • Dream Catcher Making
  • Cooking Classes
  • Haudenosaunee Social Dancing and Music
  • Game Nights
  • Learning about Indigenous Leadership
  • Art activities/therapy sessions