A Thriving Workforce

Consider what elements of the working experience might support a strong, effective and thriving workforce eager to support the children and families they work with.

Consider what kinds of things you want to learn and grow from working in a First Nations Community or Tribe; what does “leadership" mean to them? What does it look like? Is it about power and/or control or title? Do you understand First Nations history from their experiences or preferences? Their lived traumas and generational traumas that have been passed down?  It works best for the children and families to have trained, qualified ECEs that truly want the best for all children and families. 

Furthermore, reflect on the key elements that might contribute to a strong, effective, and thriving workforce. What defines a "thriving" or "effective" workforce in your context?

  • From whose perspective are you looking through regarding the word “thriving”? As a leader, it is up to you to learn, ask questions, avoid prejudging and prejudice, and ensure equal opportunity for all children, families, and staff.  All are treated the same. 
  • What workplace conditions, supports, or leadership practices are essential for fostering a strong and motivated workforce?

As a “Leader,” it is up to you to be able to lift your staff, parents, and children all up in a good way, treated with respect, building on trusting relationships, taking time to get to know each member.  Creating opportunities for all to become the “Leaders” that they want to be or slowly discovering that they are “ Leaders” and may not have considered themselves as a leader.

Watch the Government of British Columbia (2023) announcement of the $60 million Stronger Community Services Fund, made on the inaugural BC Non-Profit Day with David Eby and Ada Mawson. 

Note. Government of British Columbia. (2023, October 30). BC government announcement on strengthening charities across British Columbia [Video]. YouTube.

How does your own work environment compare to your vision of an effective and thriving workforce? What changes, if any, would enhance it?

Many times, we may have to reconsider what we envision as a thriving workforce, especially when working in a First Nation Community, Tribe, or program. If you are not from that Nation, Community, or Tribe, you will have to learn to follow their vision, dreams, and hopes for their children, and take time to listen with an open heart and a clear mind, staying flexible as you carry out the support you were hired to provide.  How will you honour the community you are working for? How will you let go of what you think is best or what your vision may be? And be able to lead and be humble. It's not about yourself; it is about the children, families, and staff that you will support and lead positively. What is the vision of the Nation? What can you do to promote and enhance their vision for their Future generations?  Being creative and respectful will allow you to be the leader that you are.  

Children and families in early childhood education programs are best served when the childcare centre has qualified staff. Fully certified Early Childhood Educators provide the best option for working alongside children. Ensuring that you have enough qualified early childhood educators can be a challenge due to workforce issues, including not having enough trained educators. This can cause an over-reliance on Early Childhood Educator Assistants or responsible adults working alongside children.

Many Colleges and Universities may offer First Nations (Indigenous) ECEC training programs, which include local teachings, language, cultural ways of doing and being, and program planning around the seasons vs holidays or dates.  These programs are a good place to find qualified First Nations ECEC professionals and those with firsthand experience and knowledge from that area, reserve, or community.