Announcing the Celebrating Red River Métis Achievements (CCRMA) Contest Winners
The Métis Employment & Training (MET) Department is thrilled to announce the winners of the "Celebrating Red River Métis Achievements Contest" (CRRMA), an initiative dedicated to recognizing the incredible accomplishments of Red River Métis Citizens supported under the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024.
Each eligible participant who submitted their success story will receive a $250 Participation Incentive as a token of appreciation for sharing their journey with us. Additionally, MET has randomly selected three grand incentives to receive an additional cash prize of $500 each.
Grand prize winners were selected through a randomized electronic draw, ensuring impartiality and fairness to all participants and maintaining the integrity of the CCRMA Contest.
THE WINNERS ARE...
Sasha Smith's dedication to early childhood education shines bright, backed by the support of MET.
Sasha Smith
Supported by The Pas MET for her Early Childhood Education Diploma at the University College of the North, MET provided Sasha with the financial security and ability to focus on her studies without the stress of worrying about making ends meet. "The support of MET has allowed me to focus on my academic goals and achieve success. This has truly been a dream come true," she said.
The support provided by MET allowed her to focus on her studies and learn new things about her culture and heritage. Despite being away from her family, Sasha excelled in her program and looks forward to a future where she can open her own childcare center. Her journey underscores the program's role in promoting early childhood education and preserving Red River Métis culture.
Kiara Kerwin's success story is an inspiring narrative of breaking barriers and pursuing dreams in construction management.
Kiara Kerwin
Supported by the Southwest MET Office for her Bachelor of Technology in Construction Management at Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech), Kiara is excited to follow in her father's footsteps and work in the construction industry. According to Kiara, "MET has provided immense support to me throughout my four-year degree, allowing me to focus on my academic goals and achieve success. This has truly been a dream come true."
Excited to follow in her father's footsteps after graduating high school in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kiara looks forward to what her future holds as she continues to take pride in making an impact as a Red River Métis woman in the construction industry. Her career goal is to become a project manager, emphasizing the program's role in breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Aiden Smolinski's journey to becoming a Red Seal electrician exemplifies the transformative power of MET's support.
Aiden Smolinski
Supported by the Southeast MET Office for his Electrician Apprenticeship training, Aiden is set to become a proud Red River Métis Red Seal electrician. "The support from the Manitoba Métis Federation allowed me to be comfortable and stay on top of everything," Aiden shared. "The MET Department took away the financial stress that comes with not working while going to school for apprenticeship training. I was able to focus on school work much better without the worry," he added.
His experience highlights the program's significant role in reducing financial stress and enabling participants to concentrate on their education and career goals.
"We are so proud of all our clients who took the time to share their stories with us. They are a true testament to the resilience and determination of the Red River Métis, and a shining example of what can be achieved with the support of the Métis Employment and Training Department," said Minister John Fleury, Minister of Métis Employment & Training. "We encourage all Red River Métis Citizens to continue pursuing their goals and aspirations, and the Métis Employment and Training Department is here to support you every step of the way."
MET would like to thank and congratulate all participants and winners for sharing their inspiring stories, and for their passion, determination, and hard work.
For more information about MET and available programs and services, visit our website at mmfemployment.ca.
Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.
