Training and Development

Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC and its partners run a wide range of tourism training programs and workshops in First Nation and Métis communities throughout British Columbia. Also Aboriginal tourism businesses and communities can contribute to and benefit from several product development projects that are underway.

Cultural Interpretation Training

The Aboriginal Tourism Trailblazers Cultural Interpretation initiative offers entry-level tourism skills training and builds career awareness for those launching a tourism career. A Train-the-Trainer program is also offered, designed to accredit Aboriginal individuals to deliver the Trailblazers Cultural Interpretation program at the community level.

A total of 32 Aboriginal people have completed the Train-the-Trainer program and are now accredited to deliver the Trailblazers Cultural Interpretation Participant program to groups across the province. Two, two week pilot programs for participants were completed on the Central Coast and in Northeastern BC in 2008, and four six week participant programs were delivered in Haida Gwaii, Port Alberni, Vancouver and Chilliwack in 2009.

Through practical hands-on experience and classroom sessions, training includes courses on heritage interpretation to help people share their own unique stories, cultural practices, as well as intercultural workshops.

Participants gain valuable industry-recognized certification to help them expand their career options, including 3 Credit course in Special Events Management, WorldHost and FirstHost customer service; First Aid Level 1, Transportation Endorsement and FoodSafe. Graduates of the Train-the- Trainer program also receive Tourism Visitor Centre counsellor certification.

AtBC is currently working with LinkBC and colleges and universities to accredit the Aboriginal Tourism Trailblazers Cultural Interpretation program to provide credit to post-secondary Aboriginal Tourism Management programs, laddering opportunities into the next level of education. Just one more reason to become a Trailblazer!

Business Development Training

Trailblazers - Aboriginal Tourism Business Development Train-the-Trainer initiative launched in January 2009, 16 individuals are now trained to deliver the 12 sessions of Trailblazers - Aboriginal Tourism Business Development Participant Training. This program provides skills training so communities or individuals can capitalize on the entrepreneurial spirit to identify tourism business opportunities. Participants will carry out market research, write a business plan, explore financing options, and learn about the tools necessary to make tourism a viable business option.

For more information, you may contact:
Cheryl Chapman, Training & Development Coordinator
(604) 921-1070, ext. 230 or toll free 1-877-266-2822
cheryl@aboriginalbc.com