The SKIA scholarship not only represents a significant milestone for Skretting but also serves as a powerful catalyst for indigenous youth pursuing careers in this vital industry. Through this new program Skretting hopes to continue supporting sustainable industry growth, to benefit Canada’s domestic food production and the self-sufficiency of First Nations farming communities.
We are thrilled to announce that Skretting Canada has launched an initiative to support indigenous students in Canada. As a part of its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity, Skretting is awarding the first SKIA scholarship in the field of Aquaculture to Jorja Peltier, a grade 12 student at Manitoulin Secondary School, in Ontario.
Hailing from the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory Jorja is preparing to begin the Fish and Wildlife Technician program at Fleming College in September this year. Her interest in Aquaculture began during a summer employment in 2019 at Buzwah Fisheries, an indigenous-owned & BAP-certified Aquaculture site. “I Developed my knowledge of fish husbandry through my participation in fingerling deliveries, daily feeding, traceability recording, environmental monitoring, and harvesting,” she said. Jorja is currently learning about BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) and continues to enjoy learning about aquaculture through her experience at Buzwah Fisheries. In addition to her passion for aquaculture and environmental sustainability, Jorja has shown great commitment through her academic accomplishments and extracurricular activities.
I Developed my knowledge of fish husbandry through my participation in fingerling deliveries, daily feeding, traceability recording, environmental monitoring and harvesting.
Skretting believes supporting aquaculture workforce development in indigenous communities is crucial for the sustainable growth of farmed fish as well as for improving local food security.
Sarah Cook, Business Manager at Skretting North America, said, “Recognizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge and the need for inclusive growth, a forward-thinking Skretting scholarship program has been established to support this future generation of leaders in aquaculture. By providing access to education and resources, we are empowering Indigenous youth to become agents of change in their communities and within this industry."
The SKIA scholarship not only represents a significant milestone for Skretting but also serves as a powerful catalyst for indigenous youth pursuing careers in this vital industry. Through this new program Skretting hopes to continue supporting sustainable industry growth, to benefit Canada’s domestic food production and the self-sufficiency of First Nations farming communities.
Recognizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge and the need for inclusive growth, a forward-thinking Skretting scholarship program has been established to support this future generation of leaders in aquaculture
