June 6, 2005
Media Release – For Immediate Release
Aboriginal Tourism Program Develops Skills for Developing Tourism
Powell River, BC – In fall 2005, Malaspina University-College (MUC) is offering
a unique opportunity for people who see the potential for developing a tourism
industry, and want to know how to help make it happen! Aboriginal teachers and
leaders and others with up-to-date expertise in the industry will work to make
sure students get real knowledge and skills to develop tourism in their
communities.
“This will be very worthwhile training – really more like professional
development, but with academic credits!” says L. Maynard Harry, former Chief
Councillor of the Sliammon Nation and owner of Ayjoomixw Concepts, a consulting
firm specializing in economic and tourism development. Harry is one of several
guest instructors in the program. “The opportunities in tourism, recreation and
economic development in general are excellent, and I want to work towards
ensuring that First Nation's are in a positive position to take advantage of
them.”
Tourism is one of the largest and fastest-growing industries. First Nations
communities in Canada and around the world are becoming more aware of the
opportunities for economic self-sufficiency, and to share and preserve precious
cultural and natural heritage. “First Nation's people are in the best positions
to ensure that their cultural heritage resources are protected and the best way
to do that is to learn about them and to be a presence in their traditional
territories,” says Harry. While there are several excellent programs in BC that
help students develop entry level skills in hospitality and tourism, the skills
needed to develop the industry in First Nations communities are in high demand.
Students of the Aboriginal Tourism Industry Development Skills Program will stay
in the Historic Lund Hotel in the heart of Tla’amin (Sliammon) First Nation’s
traditional territory. The nine-credit program will be offered between
Saturday, October 15th and Sunday, November 27th, 2005 in two modules of eight
days each. The small group size – around 12 students – will allow for lots of
individual attention and support.
The program covers such topics as the role and potential of the industry in
aboriginal communities, how to develop and deliver successful tourism
“products”, how to develop human resources, and marketing for recreation and
tourism. Students will have an opportunity to work on a business plan for their
individual community or organization, and get support and feedback from the
experts.
Program fees of $3200 include all course materials, 16 nights’ accommodation at
the Historic Lund Hotel, plus all meals and student activities. Although it is
recommended that students stay in “residence” at Lund, program fees will be
adjusted for those who live in the area and can commute from home.
The Sliammon First Nation is part-owner of this hotel property which is situated
at the top of the Sunshine Coast, at the gateway to Desolation Sound Marine
Park, and some of the most beautiful coastline anywhere. The hotel has recently
undergone extensive renovations. It now features 27 well-appointed guest rooms,
a pub and restaurant, meeting rooms, and a fully stocked general store. Several
tourism businesses – some seasonal – operate out of the Lund Harbour.
Interested people should contact the Program Coordinator, Deb Bryant at
Malaspina University-College in Powell River at 604 485 8029 or bryantd@mala.bc.ca
for assistance with their application. First Nations Education Coordinators,
Employers and Economic Development offices may be sources of financial
assistance, and advisors at Malaspina University-College can help find financial
support for program fees as well.
Contact: Deb Bryant
Tel: 604 485 8029
Email: bryantd@mala.bc.ca
http://www.pr.mala.bc.ca/aboriginaltourism.htm