Delephine Gall (Musqua)

SIIT Programs: Adult 12 and Indian Business Management
Graduated: 2000
Campus: Regina & Fort Qu'Appelle
First Nation: Keeseekoose First Nation

Originally, I went to SIIT because my employment counsellor encouraged me to do so. I also went through the Indian Business Management (IBM) program because the classes were transferable to the University of Regina, and I had planned on continuing my education.

As someone who grew up in a non-First Nation world in Kitchener, Ontario; off the reserve; and having lived in a predominantly German community, I experienced a culture shock when my family moved back to Saskatchewan. I knew that I was an Indian, but I just didn't know what that meant. When I attended the IBM program at SIIT I had finally learned that being an Indian was more than just belonging to a reserve or doing "Indian" things. I learned that being Indian meant being strong, and having a proud sense of culture and traditions. My instructors were non-Aboriginal, but I had respect for them because they were educators in the same way our Elders are – they just have different versions of knowledge.

The Administrators were First Nations role models to me as well. One of whom I used as a reference for a few years after graduating from the IBM program. The support I received at SIIT in tutoring, the understanding of family commitments, baby sitting issues, vehicle problems, etc., allowed me to continue in a program where I may not have been able to complete elsewhere. My average was a mid seventy at the completion of the program and the practicum placement was an excellent tool that helped me gain "professional" references, which were related to my area of expertise in Human Resources. Here is some of my previous employment to give you an idea of where SIIT training has got me:

  • Aboriginal Coordinator, Canada Summer Games
  • Organizational Development Coordinator, Aboriginal Employment, Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA)
  • Abilities Counsellor, First Nations Employment Center
  • Aboriginal Management Trainee, SaskEnergy
  • Employment Counsellor, First Nations Employment Centre
  • Assistant Employment Equity & Staff Development Officer, City of Regina

I now work for the University of Regina as their Aboriginal, Diversity & Employment Consultant, which I enjoy!

Delephine Gall (Musqua)
Aboriginal, Diversity & Employment Consultant
Human Resources
University of Regina