BMO Peer Mentorship Program

BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program

BMO supports Indigenous learners

Since 2014, the BMO Aboriginal Peer Mentorship Program has supported MRU Indigenous students. The legacy of 2013, $1.5M donation for scholarships, bursaries, and the peer mentorship program has provided for leadership development and training, culturally safe programming, and academic support.

The students, Iniskim Centre, and Mount Royal University are grateful for the continued commitment by BMO to our community.

MissionThrough sharing of cultural traditions and values, the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program provides peer-to-peer mentorship experiences for Indigenous students at Mount Royal University. Recognizing the importance of supporting students as they transition into university, this program empowers both the mentor and mentee to establish relationships and hone their academic skills through education, culture, community and wellness. The BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program is committed to supporting Indigenous student success.

Objectives

Mentees

As a mentee in the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program, you will:
  • focus your academic direction.
  • develop more self-awareness and self-directedness.
  • develop strategies to successfully transition you into Mount Royal.
  • develop an understanding of Indigenous culture.
  • develop a sense of connectedness and belonging within the Mount Royal community.
  • understand the supports and services available for personal and academic success.
  • increase your self-confidence.


 

Mentors

As a mentor in the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program, you will:
  • develop mentorship and leadership skills.
  • have a meaningful opportunity to give back to their community.
  • understand and encourage the sharing of cultural traditions and values with their mentee.
  • develop a feeling of connectedness and belonging within the Mount Royal community.


 

Role of the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Facilitator

The BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program facilitator matches second, third, and fourth-year students with first-year students in the Indigenous University Bridging Program and first-year students in any diploma and degree program. The facilitator attempts to match students from the same program to navigate their academic and social experience at Mount Royal University.  

Students will enhance their experience through education, awareness, and understanding of all programs and services across the MRU campus.  

The facilitator coordinates interviews, training and event outings during the semester. The facilitator works with the Medicine Trail Program coordinator to incorporate traditional teachings, cultural knowledge and Elder support.  

This facilitator engages mentees and mentors to create a sense of belonging, community and wellness while developing self-awareness.   

Check in’s with students will be ongoing throughout mentorship and will send evaluations at the end of the winter semester.

Reporting lines
All BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program's mentors will report to the Iniskim Centre's Student Success Coordinator.Services and students served
This program is specifically for Mount Royal Indigenous students. The mentors in this program need to have a 2.80 GPA or higher and be in at least their second year at the University. Experienced Indigenous students will act as guides, mentors and role models to younger students, many of whom are living away from home for the first time and navigating cultural differences.

The mentees must meet with the Student Success Coordinator prior to being matched with a peer mentor. This is to assess their level of commitment to the program, as well as, understand their personal needs and goals for participating.Contact usIf you have any questions, please contact:

Marija Small Legs
Student Success Coordinator
msmalllegs@mtroyal.ca

Iniskim Centre
T110

About the Iniskim Centre

The Iniskim Centre offers programs and services to increase the engagement and success of Indigenous students while also raising awareness of Indigenous peoples and cultures. 

Mount Royal University is located in the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of the Treaty 7 region, which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina, and the Îyârhe Nakoda. We are situated on land where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. The traditional Blackfoot name of this place is Mohkinstsis, which we now call the City of Calgary. The City of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation.

We recognize and respect the diversity of all Indigenous peoples of Canada. We also increase awareness of distinct Indigenous cultures, history and protocols across the University.