Honouring the Circle: Staying Connected, Growing Together 2026 to 2027 Calendar by the BC Committee for the Advancement of Native Employment

Recruitment and Retention

Contributing to a Positive and Respectful Relationship

Although Indigenous peoples are forming a growing segment of the Canadian population, and are playing an increasingly important role in Canada's social and economic development, many Canadians are not very familiar with Indigenous issues.

BC CANE plays an important role in helping raise awareness about Indigenous issues, culture and history in the public service. The committee encourages colleagues to engage in continuous learning about Indigenous peoples in Canada by organizing learning sessions. We invite Indigenous speakers from different backgrounds to share their knowledge of the history, values, customs, aspirations, beliefs and diversity of the First Nations in BC, as well as the issues facing them today. We also share resources with public servants to help them communicate and work effectively with Indigenous communities, and to increase the respect for, and understanding of, Indigenous cultures and values.

The following pages show examples of the information we share with our colleagues.

BC CANE Executives

The Committee for the Advancement of Native Employment (CANE) plays a vital role in supporting Indigenous employment by fostering the four cornerstones of success: recruitment, training, retention, and advancement. In collaboration with senior management and the CANE champions we continue to honour Indigenous voices and experiences.

Operating within the federal public service gives CANE a powerful platform to drive systemic change. With access to decision-making channels, CANE is uniquely positioned to influence how reconciliation is embedded into the fabric of public service culture.

Initiatives such as the Indigenous Garden at 1138 Melville Street in Vancouver, the boardroom renaming project, and the Cousin's Initiative exemplify how culture and community can thrive in the workplace. These efforts cultivate belonging, respect, and the exchange of knowledge— principles that keep our circle strong.

Together, we continue to strengthen the circle — ensuring every Indigenous employee feels seen, valued, and empowered to grow within ISC, while leveraging the influence of public service to advance reconciliation meaningfully and sustainably.

Vern Bob

For nearly three decades, Vern Bob has served Indigenous communities with dedication, humility, and a strong sense of purpose. "Before I started, my dad told me, 'You're not going to make everyone happy all the time. Work hard and don't make promises you can't keep,'" Vern recalls. It's advice that continues to guide him.

Since joining ISC in 1995, Vern has led teams of Funding Services Officers who administer funding agreements and support Indigenous communities in making informed decisions. Drawing on his leadership experience as a Scouts Canada leader and lacrosse coach, Vern believes in developing the "little leader" in everyone.

Proud of his Gitxsan and Coast Salish roots, Vern brings his cultural values into his work — embracing patience, connection, and community. He finds joy in traveling to communities, sharing stories, and building relationships that go beyond the office.

Reflecting on ISC's evolving support for cultural diversity, Vern says, "I recall being told my late Granny would be proud her grandson is an Indian Agent and being on the inside gives us an opportunity to make or recommend change as we build a government-to-government relationship." Outside of work, he enjoys family time, his pets — especially his dog Betty — and jokingly notes he's the "premier opera singer" in his family.

Isabelle (Izzy) Foy

Working in the public service is more than a career — it's an opportunity to contribute to meaningful change for Indigenous people, ensuring their voices help shape decisions that promote fairness and cultural safety. Izzy encourages Indigenous people considering this path to "know your value, seek out supportive networks, and stay grounded in your identity."

Since joining ISC in January 2024, Izzy has served as a Governance Officer supporting First Nations elections, Ottawa Trust Fund administration, and other governance-related matters. Her diverse career journey — from private sector, provincial work to Service Canada call centre agent then ISC — strengthened her communication and interpersonal skills, helping her navigate sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism.

Grounded in her cultural values of respect and community, Izzy finds the greatest reward in moments when someone feels truly heard. Outside of work, she enjoys drawing, beading, and spending time with her two beloved cats, Nyla and Vitani.

Ashley Blom

Ashley's public service journey is grounded in advocacy, reconciliation, and creating meaningful change for Indigenous communities. She encourages Indigenous professionals to bring their full selves into the public service: "Your voice matters. Your lived experience strengthens policies, programs, and relationships. Stay true to your values, seek mentors, and don't be afraid to advocate for change.

Before joining the federal public service, Ashley worked to address the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the justice system, serving in youth probation, victim services, and as a Gladue report writer. In each role, she ensured Indigenous perspectives were respected and supported fair, culturally grounded outcomes.

In 2019, Ashley joined ISC's Child and Family Services Directorate and later moved to Correctional Service Canada. Ashley now serves as Manager of Partnerships (West) in the Consultation and Accommodation Unit at Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. As a team leader, she supports federal departments in consultation and accommodation, and co-developing consultation protocols and resource centres with Indigenous partners across Western Canada.

What motivates Ashley most is knowing that even one meaningful connection can help advance a Nation's priorities. "When communities say someone truly helped them — that's when I know the work made a difference."

Former Indigenous Students at ISC

Joining the federal public service as a student offers exposure to diverse career paths across Canada and the chance to gain meaningful experience on projects or initiatives that impact the lives of Canadians.

For Indigenous students entering the public service, and later bridging into Term or Indeterminate positions, their journeys carry an even deeper significance. By bringing culture, teachings, and lived experiences into federal workplaces such as ISC, they strengthen culturally informed decision-making and increase Indigenous representation.

These transitions — from student to permanent employee — demonstrate how learning, curiosity, and dedication can shape rewarding careers while uplifting identity. Many Indigenous employees who began as students found mentors, discovered new strengths, and created space for others to follow. Their success inspires current and future Indigenous students to embrace challenges and bring their whole selves to work, helping transform the public service into a more respectful, inclusive and culturally grounded environment.

Gina Coates

For Gina Coates, a career in the public service is not only meaningful work — a chance to uplift Indigenous knowledge, strengthen representation, and support lasting change. She encourages Indigenous candidates to pursue opportunities with confidence, noting that the Government of Canada is actively seeking Indigenous voices. "If you aren't successful the first time, revise your application, update your résumé, and try again. Don't give up."

Gina joined ISC three years ago and now supports colleagues as an Information Management (IM) Officer. In this role, she delivers IM services including profiling, classification, and research as well as providing timely and effective GCdocs support, training, and guidance. Her background in customer service and sales, paired with organizational skills and cultural knowledge — including language and history — helps her to serve with patience, respect, and clarity.

Her cultural teachings and upbringing in ceremony guide her approach every day. "I was raised to respect everyone. I carry a cultural code of ethics into my work," she says. Gina appreciates ISC's commitment to cultural diversity and the welcoming environment it fosters.

Outside work, culture remains at the centre of her life. She participates in potlatches and art. As well, she is on a Kwak'wala language revitalization journey. At home, she also cares for her late grandparents' elderly cat, Caesar.

Jasmine Hurren

To Jasmine, working in the public service is a meaningful way to advance reconciliation and improve outcomes for First Nations children and families. She encourages Indigenous people to pursue careers in government with confidence in the power of their voices and experiences.

"Our perspectives are grounded in lived realities and community knowledge — they bring strength, truth, and responsibility. We deserve to take up space and help shape systems that serve our people."

Since joining ISC two years ago, Jasmine has dedicated her work to advancing Jordan's Principle policy and funding supports. She manages contribution agreements, reporting, and payments, working closely with partners to ensure services are culturally safe, timely, and responsive to the needs of families. Each successful outcome represents not only a service delivered, but progress on long-term healing and equity.

Jasmine's approach is shaped by community connection, cultural grounding, and lived experience. She sees advocacy as an extension of reconciliation — ensuring children receive the care, support, and opportunities they have always deserved. "When a family finally receives support they've been fighting for, it's a reminder of why this work matters — and why we must continue moving forward, together."

Outside of work, Jasmine finds balance through family, community, and staying active.

Jessica Hamilton

Jessica Hamilton encourages Indigenous people considering the public service to take the leap. "Go for it! I was nervous and didn't know what to expect, and now I absolutely love what I do." Jessica joined ISC in August 2023 after working with the Nisga'a Ts'amiks Vancouver Society in Programs and Services, while also holding part-time roles at Rogers Arena.

As a Program Assistant with First Nations Child and Family Services, she provides essential clerical and regulatory support, helping her colleagues deliver services that directly benefit children, youth, and families. She values the significance of the Directorate's work and feels proud to contribute to positive outcomes for First Nations communities.

Jessica's cultural roots guide her work, giving her a strong sense of responsibility and connection to the communities ISC serves. The theme Honouring the Circle: Staying Connected, Growing Together reflects the relationships, teamwork, and shared purpose she experiences daily.

One moment that affirmed her path was her first day as a practicum student at ISC. Remembering a time she dreamed of working downtown in a professional role, she walked toward the office with a laptop bag and a coffee and told herself, "Girl, you did it!"

Outside work, Jessica enjoys reading, working out, and spending time with her cat.

Ellen Lisa Barton

Education has shaped Ellen's career and commitment to serving Indigenous communities. A proud Nisga'a woman, Ellen graduated from Nisga'a Elementary Secondary School before pursuing post-secondary studies focused on administration and justice. She completed the Native Public Administration Program at Native Education College, followed by a computerized bookkeeping diploma at Burnaby College and Legal Secretarial training at Vancouver Community College. She is currently working toward her Paralegal Certificate, continuing to build her skills and advance her career in the federal public service.

In 2023, Ellen joined ISC, bringing along 14 years of experience with the Department of Justice Canada. In her current role, she supports the Director of Child and Family Services and three managers, coordinating high-priority taskings, managing schedules and travel, assisting with HR needs, and supporting leadership teams across multiple units.

Her education and lived experience — including her perspective as an intergenerational Residential School Survivor — shape her dedication to fostering safe, culturally aware workplaces and improving outcomes for Indigenous children and families. Outside the office, Ellen is a devoted mother who supports her two sons' academic and athletic accomplishments, cherishing time with them and family.

Eric Mancewich

Eric joined ISC in 2021 and currently serves as a Program Officer with the Community Infrastructure Directorate. His responsibilities involve staffing, reception duties and reviewing funding applications from First Nations for infrastructure projects. Before joining the department, he enjoyed a long and successful career as an Operations Team Leader at WestJet Airlines, where he also gained staffing experience. His years in the airline industry taught him the value of teamwork, patience, and service — skills that now help him connect with Indigenous clients and colleagues alike.

These experiences coupled with his work at ISC have been rewarding. "It feels amazing helping our Indigenous communities," he says, encouraging others to consider a career in the public service for the opportunity to make meaningful change.

Proud of his Witset First Nation roots and his Vancouver upbringing, Eric brings warmth and inclusivity to his role. "It's important that ISC supports cultural diversity," he notes. "We want everyone to succeed regardless of background."

Outside of work, Eric plays sports, enjoys travel, as well as spends time with his better half, Martina, and energetic dog, Charley, who keep life lively and full of joy.

Cheyenne Gegenfurtner

Connection and respect are at the heart of Cheyenne's work. Guided by the teaching of All My Relations, she believes that every role — whether a Commissionaire, Custodian, or Regional Director General — is essential to the collective effort of the public service. "Honour each person, regardless of role," she advises Indigenous people considering this career path.

Since joining ISC in October 2023 as an Administrative Assistant, Cheyenne has supported HR staffing actions, tracked timelines, and created Human Resource Service Requests, all while learning new processes like file reviews. With a business diploma and over a decade of customer service experience — including management and supervisory roles — she brings empathy, organization, and a strong work ethic to her role.

Cultural values of respect and courtesy influence Cheyenne's approach to her work every day. She finds purpose in helping Indigenous families heal from the impacts of colonization and believes that "we are all connected and stronger when we grow together."

Outside of work, she enjoys the calming creativity of crocheting.

BC CANE Members

The Committee for the Advancement of Native Employment (CANE) was established in May 1988 by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis employees in headquarters, with early representation from the BC and Manitoba Regions. Its creation followed a period in which Indigenous employees often felt isolated within the department, despite the 1982 Constitution's recognition of Indigenous rights. CANE emerged to change this reality and to strengthen Indigenous presence, voice, and representation within the federal public service.

From the beginning, BC CANE's purpose was clear: to explore and recommend ways to increase the hiring, retention, and career development of Indigenous employees. That original purpose continues to guide its work today. The members —volunteers who contribute their time, energy, and insight—have played a crucial role in shifting organizational culture and advancing understanding of Indigenous perspectives within the department. Early support from senior management helped establish a strong foundation, with CANE meeting the Deputy Minister only one month after being formalized.

Over 35 years, BC CANE has contributed to significant progress, including the BC CANE Calendar, boardroom renaming initiatives, and the creation of Leylum. As one of ISC's key corporate committees, CANE continues to serve as both the voice and heartbeat of Indigenous employees, fostering a more inclusive, culturally grounded, and representative workplace.

History of the calendar

The BC CANE issued its first calendar in 2006. Over the years, the calendars have featured the stories, aspirations and advice of more than 100 Indigenous employees. The calendars have also included: messages from Indigenous leaders, recruitment and retention resources, cultural awareness information, and a list of key historical events.

The calendars have been distributed to all First Nations in British Columbia, at libraries, educational institutions, federal and provincial offices, as well as at events such as career fairs, National Indigenous Peoples Day, and Our Gathering with First Nations leadership and government officials.

On the 20th anniversary of the calendar, BC CANE continues to produce it for use as a recruitment tool. The calendar provides the opportunity to feature the stories of new and longtime Indigenous employees, with the aim of inspiring others to join the public service.

This BC Northwest Coast representation of the raven is the symbol of the BC Committee for the Advancement of Native Employment (BC CANE).

Raven is one of the most important beings in northwest coast mythology. The original trickster, transformer, teacher, catalyst and chief spirit, Raven has the power to transform both himself and other beings.