New program encourages leadership in Aboriginal tourism
The Aboriginal tourism industry in Quebec generates more than $160 million in revenues from the roughly 800,000 visitors attracted by the breathtaking landscape and culture of the First Nations of Quebec. With the growth of the industry over the years, the demand for a training program that focuses on the tourism industry has resulted in the formation of a new program at the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT) to meet this need.
UQAT will welcome the first group of students enrolled in the Aboriginal Tourism Management program next fall. They will take part in a comprehensive training plan that will teach professional skills needed to create, manage, and develop an Aboriginal tourism enterprise. In keeping with First Nations culture, the program differs from mainstream tourism programs in that it focuses on a holistic and eco-friendly approach to the management and operations of an Aboriginal tourism company.
“The curriculum aims to meet the need for specialized training of human resources in tourism and strengthen the presence of Aboriginal managers in our companies. The success and growth of our companies depend on a qualified and dedicated workforce,” said Nancy Picard, Head of Operations and Marketing of Onhoüa Chetek8e, a traditional Huron attraction, for the past several years.
The development of the program came naturally as the regional tourism board realized the vital importance of training the local Aboriginal population in order to best capitalize on the growing industry.
“Part of the reason for creating the program was to encourage entrepreneurship amongst Aboriginals and to take on more leadership roles in the industry,” said Patricia Auclair, communications officer for Quebec Aboriginal Tourism. “Our role in the program has been to promote it and aid in the writing of the curriculum as well as translation into French.”
Over 3,500 people were employed in the industry as of 2013. Tourism is providing attractive career options for those who wish to combine their love of the outdoors and First Nations culture. Those already working in the field could also gain an edge in the growing and competitive industry from the courses offered, such as Marketing of Aboriginal Tourism or E-Business.
The programs offer an opportunity to improve marketing and management skills, either in person at the Val d’Or campus or online.
“The training will allow Aboriginal entrepreneurs to learn the basics of developing quality and eco-friendly tourism products in accordance with our distinct culture and as per customer and industry expectations,” added Claude Boivin, founder of Aventure Plume Blanche, located in the Innu First Nation of Mashteuiatsh.
Admission for Fall 2014 has started, with requirements being either a college diploma or being 21 and older. The deadline to apply is March 1.
For more info: www.uqat.ca/firstpeoples