Welcome, Simran!
Embracing Reconciliation and Community Development
Simran, a recent graduate from the University of Winnipeg with a B.A. in Economics, discovered her passion for downtown revitalization during her studies. This passion has now led her to an impactful role with the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC), where she supports the development of the Indigenous Business Directory. This initiative aims to improve awareness of Indigenous businesses and foster a sense of community.
Simran’s position is made possible through the Inner-City Work Study program, an innovative sixteen-week initiative that aligns with the spirit of reconciliation. The program operates in accordance with the principles outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Final Report (TRC 2015). It emphasizes the shared responsibility of all Canadians, as Treaty peoples, to establish and maintain mutually respectful relationships. The TRC highlights the need for sustained public education and dialogue, especially among youth, to achieve reconciliation.
The Inner-City Work Study program focuses on reconciliation at the community level, particularly in Winnipeg, where racism remains a significant issue. By engaging Indigenous, non-Indigenous, and newcomer students to work together within the inner city, the program aims to heal community divisions. It collaborates with community-based organizations to create work placements that align with students’ skills and interests, offering a practical path to reconciliation and community improvement.
Through her role with the ICC and participation in the Inner-City Work Study program, Simran is not only contributing to economic development but also to the broader goal of reconciliation and community healing in Winnipeg.
Outside of work, Simran enjoys spending time on the tennis court and has a newfound love for baking macarons.