First Nations Voice

February 2017

Building bridges between all communities

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The RBC Convention Centre is pleased to be the host venue for Canada's first ever National First Nations eHealth Conference on February 6 & 7, 2017 followed by the 2nd Annual Manitoba First Nations Information Communications Technology (ICT) Summit on February 8 & 9, 2017. Organized by Nanaandawewigamig, the First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba (FNHSSM), these two events will bring participants together from throughout Manitoba and across Canada to share technology advance- ments and shortcomings on First Nations. Chiefs, First Nations health authorities, councillors, health directors, eHealth partners, youth delegates, event sponsors and supporters will come together to take in this 4 day event that will include a trade show, youth participation and international presenters with the opportunity to make direct contact with decision makers from the community. Manitoba's First Nation people are one of the fastest grow- ing demographic and rely heavily on technology to connect over long distances. As these communities continue to grow and rely on information and communication technology (ICT) to power their health facilities, education and adminis- tration buildings, it's important to understand what services can be improved and how to implement the right solutions. Delegates will gather to identify and discuss the issues that impact these communities. Event organizer, Lisa Clarke, eHealth Director with FNHSSM said the conference will be an opportunity to network and build foundations on a grassroots level. "We need to reach our communities to ensure there's adequate training, resources, education and support. In light of the recent increase in suicide rates, now is the time." Clarke added that connectivity and access to mobile communication tools are important to all Manitobans and the FNHSSM believes there is a responsibility to utilize these tools in order to advance the overall health and wellness of Manitoba First Nations. With a large youth contingent involved in the creation of the conference, delegates will hear more about their programs and projects. "The Youth ICT Committee also known as Youth Coalition on Suicide Prevention has already been working on eHealth initiatives like app development and video productions to try to reach our communities," said Clarke. "During the conference, they will be hosting two evening events that will be open to the public as fundraisers for youth programming activities." Other conference highlights include keynote addresses by Dan Sinai, IBM Canada and Judy Klassen, MLA for Kewati- nook; presentations by Shawn Beaton, Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA); Scott Ward, Healing with Hypnosis; Dr Shannon MacDonald, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at First Nations Health Authority and opening and closing prayers by Elder Harry Bone. Attendees will have an opportunity to enjoy a cultural gala evening showcasing Manitoba indigenous talent. For more information or to register, visit their website at http://www.ictsummitmanitoba.com. CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

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