General Information

Please be advised that the SFNS office will be closed:



Labour Day - Monday, September 1, 2025

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation - Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Regular office hours will resume the next business day at 8:30 am.

Administration

Trusted Source Program

The Trusted Source Program is a new initiative offered by Southern First Nations Secretariat (SFNS) in partnership with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). Officially launched in July 2024, the program’s primary purpose is to assist First Nations individuals with applications for both the Secured Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) and Registration under the Indian Act.

As a designated Trusted Source, SFNS has been recognized by ISC’s Individual Affairs Branch as a reliable partner in assisting applicants with the documentation and submission process.

Important Note: SFNS does not determine or approve eligibility. All applications are reviewed and approved solely by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).

As part of this program, SFNS supports clients by:

• Assisting with completion of SCIS and Registration applications
• Copying and verifying documents (eliminating the need for a guarantor)
• Taking approved photos on-site
• Submitting completed applications directly to ISC on behalf of the applicant

June–July 2025 Activities Completed

In the past two months, the Trusted Source team has hosted or participated in 10 clinics and booths:

1. Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre (June 11) – 16 SCIS, 1 Registration
2. Wortley Village Solidarity Day Celebration (June 20) – 28 SCIS, 1 Registration
3. Aamjiwnaang Annual Pow Wow (June 21) – 33 SCIS
4. Delaware Nation Clinic (June 25) – 4 SCIS
5. SOAHAC (Windsor) Clinic (July 8) – 9 SCIS, 14 Registrations
6. AEI Day (Munsee-Delaware Campus) (July 11) – 5 SCIS
7. Kettle and Stony Point Pow Wow (July 12–13) – 14 SCIS
8. Western University Clinic (London) (July 18) – 14 SCIS, 2 Registrations
9. Nokee Kwe Clinic (London) (July 23) – 3 SCIS
10. Fanshawe College Clinic (London) (July 31) – 13 SCIS, 3 Registrations

Additionally, we completed 18 in-office SCIS appointments and 1 in-office Registration Under the Indian Act appointment during June and July. If you would like assistance with your applications, check out our upcoming clinics/booths in August 2025.

For more information about the Trusted Source Program, click the button below:

Employment & Training

The Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program is designed to help Indigenous people improve their skills and find employment.

ISETP offers seven programs to assist clients:

Post-Secondary

Dear Students:

The Post-Secondary Team wishes you all the best for the 2025-2026 school year! As you move one step closer to completing your educational journey, we look forward to supporting you along the way. We are here to help with anything you need.

Don’t forget to visit your school’s Indigenous Centre. It’s a great place for support, connection and most likely, some good food.

Summer Student Grade Submission

Summer 2025 students: Please remember to upload your final grades within 21 days of the end of the term. Students who do not submit grades and students who do not successfully complete their term may not be eligible for ongoing funding. 

Funding & Application Deadlines

Applications for Fall 2025 are now closed. The Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP) budgets are fully expended. Please make sure to re-apply every year for all terms in which you are requesting funding.

Application Deadline Dates:

• Summer (May to August) – March 1
• Fall (September to December) – May 1
• Winter (January to April) – October 1

Aaniin, Boozhoo

My name is Laura Spero, and I am from Aamjiwnaang First Nation. I am Bear Clan, and my spirit name is Morning Cloud. I currently live in my community with my two beautiful cats, Jasper and Gray, and I am a mother to two wonderful adult children, Katee and Stephen.

I graduated from Western University many years ago with a BA in Sociology and a Certificate in Addiction Studies. In the early '90s, I went on to Brock University and earned my Bachelor's degree in Education.

I have been working in education for quite some time, and as I approach retirement, I’m very much looking forward to what the next chapter will look like—especially working with all of you wonderful students. I believe education is a lifelong journey, and in a world that often seems black and white, I see gray. To live is to learn, and in learning, we will make mistakes. Those mistakes will teach us so much about ourselves, allowing us to rise and continue learning with even more passion and grace.

I will believe in you, support you, and listen to you when you’re feeling overwhelmed. I am beyond excited for you as you begin this path of post-secondary education.

Student Spotlight: Mackenzie Ward Mitton

Nation: Oneida Nation of the Thames

School: University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus

Program: Veterinary Technology

Mackenzie Ward Mitton, a proud member of the Oneida Nation of the Thames, recently graduated from the Veterinary Technology program at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus. Her love for animals began at an early age and naturally led her toward a career where she could help sick patients heal and welcome new puppies and kittens into the world. Her passion for animal care and desire to make a difference in the lives of pets and their owners made this program a perfect fit.

Since graduating, Mackenzie has secured a position as a Veterinary Technician at the same clinic where she’s worked since 2019. Her next goal is to pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) to become a Registered Veterinary Technician.

Mackenzie’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. She found managing a full course load to be overwhelming in her first year, so she made the decision to extend her program by an extra year. This adjustment allowed her to prioritize her mental health and truly focus on learning, not just passing. It was important to her that she left the program feeling confident in her knowledge and abilities.

To other First Nation students pursuing post-secondary education, Mackenzie encourages using every resource available and building meaningful friendships beyond academics. “Don’t be scared to put yourself out there,” she says. “I moved 2.5 hours away from home and didn’t know anyone. It was a huge adjustment, but it was worth everything to me.” She also reminds students not to stress about the little things and to always do their best.

While Mackenzie didn’t have time to explore Indigenous services on campus due to the intensity of her program, she is extremely grateful for the ongoing support from the Southern First Nations Secretariat. “I am truly grateful for the support and help SFNS has done for their First Nation students who chase their dreams!”Article Heading

We are proud of your success as a student and would love to share your story in our eNewsletter!

Alternative Financial Aid

PSSSP funding is not intended to be an exhaustive source of income. Students may benefit from seeking other sources of money such as scholarships, bursaries, grants, student loans, or part-time employment.

Below are some options:

Scholarships, Bursaries, Grants, & Awards

Make sure to check with your institution's financial aid for additional opportunities.

Post-Secondary Loan Options

Job Search Tools

Book receipts can be mailed to: 

Southern First Nations Secretariat 

Post-Secondary Department 

22361 Austin Line 

Bothwell, ON N0P 1C0 

Electronic receipts can be forwarded to your Post-Secondary Counsellor. 

Economic & Capacity Development

Workshop Summaries

Networking Events

Aamjiwnaang First Nation – July 16, 2025

44 participants

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Southern First Nations Secretariat hosted our first Networking pop-up event for the Chief & Council, staff, and committee members of the Aamjiwnaang First Nation. The event brought together 44 participants for an afternoon of connection, learning, and fun.

Highlights:

• Program and Service Showcase: Participants learned about our programs and services, gaining insight into how we support our member First Nations, and discovered new opportunities and resources available to them.
• Networking Bingo: A fun and interactive way to break the ice and spark new conversations.
• Meet the Managers: Department managers were on hand to share their expertise, answer questions, and build relationships with attendees.
• Catered Lunch: Guests enjoyed a delicious meal while mingling in a welcoming atmosphere.

The event fostered new connections, strengthened community ties, and showcased the dynamic work happening across our organization. We’re thrilled with the turnout and look forward to hosting more engaging events in the coming months.

 Regional Cybersecurity Awareness Training – A Webinar Series

with Tom Bigos

Session 3: July 30, 2025 (10:00am – 11:30am)

SFNS partnered with Centra Cyber Security to offer a 4-part webinar series titled Cyber Security Awareness Training. The series initially kicked off in the early part of the year and is open to having participants join when their schedule permits. The third session took place on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, with 13 participants joining us online alongside facilitator Tom Bigos. The session reviewed the following topics:

• Password Management: Emphasis on creating strong, unique passwords and avoiding reuse across platforms.
• Understanding Password Complexity: Participants learned how length, character variety, and unpredictability enhance password strength.
• Password Managers: These tools can securely store and generate complex passwords, reducing the burden of memorization.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The importance of adding a second layer of security (ie. email, text message, authenticator app) to accounts was highlighted, with examples reviewed.
• Phishing Awareness: Various phishing techniques (email, text message, phone call) were reviewed, including examples and how to spot the red flags.

The next session will be taking place on Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 10:00am – 11:30am (via Zoom). For those interested in registering, you can email Lori Fisher, Executive Assistant at exec.assistant@sfns.on.ca.

SFNS Economic Toolkit

Webinars, Training, & Funding Opportunities

OBIO® Women in Health Initiative (WiHI) Seed Program

The OBIO® WiHI Seed Program is a 6-month initiative supporting early-stage, women-led health science companies with coaching, networking, and up to $10,000 CAD in grant funding. Participants may also pitch for equity investment. Apply by August 29

NOMZ Indigenous Business Grant

Each year, this grant honours the Indigenous Peoples of Canada for their generosity, healing traditions, and deep connection to the land. In 2025, one Indigenous-owned business will receive $20,000 to support growth or business expenses.

Application Deadline: September 1, 2025

Western Financial Group Community Infrastructure Grants

Each year, the Communities Foundation awards up to five $5,000 grants to Indigenous-led initiatives that strengthen communities. This program supports reconciliation and inclusive, sustainable infrastructure across Canada.

AI in Action: Safe & Practical Use for Economic Development Officers and Business Owners

Explore how artificial intelligence can enhance your workflow—from composing professional communications to managing complex data—while prioritizing privacy, ethics, and trust.

Funding and support for Indigenous businesses and organizations

FedDev Ontario supports businesses and organizations in southern Ontario, from Cornwall in the east to Owen Sound in the west, and from Pembroke in the north to Windsor in the south. Its mandate covers 37 Statistics Canada census divisions.

Includes Indigenous:

• businesses and entrepreneurs
• economic development corporations (IEDCs)
• not-for-profit organizations or associations

To learn more, contact: indigenous-autochtones@feddevontario.gc.ca.

There is no deadline to apply and no need to complete an application form before contacting their dedicated team.

Innovation & Risk: Unleashing Bold Moves and Growth for Women Entrepreneurs

This interactive, in-person workshop is your opportunity to rethink what risk means, reconnect with your creative instincts, and move toward the business (and life) you truly want.

In this session, WE-CAN client Theresa Bailey of Starfish Synergies will help you:

• Reframe risk as a tool for growth, not something to fear
• Identify habits and mindsets that build confidence and momentum
• Explore how your brain responds to fear, and how to rewire it
• Use practical tools to express your bold ideas and take action
• Develop a personal roadmap for bold, values-aligned decisions

Indigenous Intellectual Property Program Grant

The Indigenous Intellectual Property Program (IIPP) grant is a funding program designed to offer Indigenous Peoples additional support to understand and access Canada's Intellectual Property (IP) system.

A total of $150,000 in non-repayable grants is available each year. The grants fund eligible Indigenous organizations' initiatives and projects related to IP, and Indigenous knowledge (IK) and Indigenous cultural expressions (ICE). They can also fund participation in World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) sessions.

The IIPP grant is administered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) Canada.

Ontario Community Changemakers (OCC)

Ontario Community Changemakers (OCC) is a leadership and micro-grant program created for Ontario residents to help spark new ideas and invigorate change in their local communities. In its fourth year, the program supports leaders from diverse ages, backgrounds and lived experiences to deliver their own creative projects that will activate public space, enhance civic engagement, and/or foster social inclusion.

Technical Services

Updates, Webinars, Training, & Funding Opportunities

We held a Housing Managers Meeting on July 30, 2025 at the Oneida Band Office, with 18 attendees participating in person and two presenters joining virtually.

CMHC provided an overview of current program deadlines, and we engaged in a productive discussion about offering maintenance training for homeowners. The group also explored the types of training housing teams would like to receive to better support their communities. Our next meeting is scheduled for October and will be hosted in Moravianown.

First Nations Environmental Contaminants Program

Indigenous Services Canada provides funding through the FNECP to help First Nations communities improve their health. The program supports these communities in identifying, investigating and characterizing the impact of exposure to environmental hazards. Its activities include community-based:

• research
• monitoring
• risk assessment
• risk communication
• knowledge integration

The Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility is launching the new Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) Grant in 2025. Replacing the EnAbling Change and Inclusive Community Grants, EASE will provide up to $60,000 for small capital projects that improve accessibility in outdoor spaces, built environments, and housing. The grant prioritizes projects that exceed AODA and Ontario Building Code standards and support existing plans like municipal accessibility or age-friendly strategies. Eligible projects may include accessible washrooms in parks, mobility mats on beaches, and assistive kayak launches. Projects must run between November 2025 and September 30, 2026.

'A Transformational Moment': Caldwell First Nation Becomes Part-Owner Of Transmission Line

How A Love Story Turned Into A Film Festival Honouring First Nations Peoples

Five Oneida Athletes Compete For Gold At U17 Lacrosse Provincials

Sophie Morrow, from Chippewas of Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, is a Master’s level intern (MACP, Yorkville) and a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). She is currently accepting new clients who are youth and adults ages 16+. Sophie offers services online and in person.

Click the button below to get started.

Trusted Source Assistant

Part-Time, Contract

POSITION SUMMARY:

In accordance with the established policies, procedures, and directives of Southern First Nations Secretariat (SFNS), the Trusted Source Assistant will assist the Trusted Source Coordinator execute the Trusted Source program in partnership with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). The Trusted Source Assistant will support applicants with Registration under the Indian Act, and Secure Certificates of Indian Status (SCIS) applications.

CLOSING DATE: Friday, August 15, 2025 @ 4:00pm

Mentored Administrative Assistant

(Mentored Work)

• Eligible participants are aged 15 to 30 inclusively.
• Mentored work placements are for youth who reside on reserve, are not in school, are unemployed or underemployed.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under direct supervision of the Executive Assistant, the Mentored Administrative Assistant will be responsible for assisting with daily administrative duties of the Administration department.

CLOSING DATE: Open Until Filled

Mentored Administrative Assistant - IA

(Mentored Work)

• Eligible participants must be aged 18 to 30 inclusively, and in receipt of Ontario Works financial assistance (supporting documentation and/or Case Manager contact details will be required).

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under direct supervision of the Executive Assistant, the Mentored Administrative Assistant will be responsible for assisting with daily administrative duties of the Administration department.

CLOSING DATE: Open Until Filled

Finance Officer

Full-Time, Permanent

POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Finance Administrator, the Finance Officer is responsible for the day-to-day bookkeeping, accounting, filing and financial administration for the Southern First Nations Secretariat (SFNS) and associated organizations as required, as well as supporting Member Nations from a financial advisory capacity as directed by the Finance Administrator.

CLOSING DATE: Open Until Filled