We Are Métis

Indigenous Peoples & Canada at Métis Crossing

Indigenous Peoples and Canada at Métis Crossing, Alberta

Executive Cultural Awareness Retreat.

Deepen Your Understanding. Transform Your Perspective.

The Indigenous Peoples and Canada course is a 3-day, 2 night executive retreat held at Métis Crossing in Smoky Lake, Alberta, delivered in partnership with the University of Alberta. Participants earn a certificate of completion and digital badge, and explore six modules covering Indigenous history, settler colonialism, Métis Nation identity, and reconciliation practices. Accommodations and meals are included.

Program Overview

A Unique Cultural Awareness Experience for Today’s Leaders

This executive retreat blends academic insight with hands-on cultural experiences. Through six immersive modules and guided learning, participants explore the legacy of settler colonialism, Indigenous worldviews, and Métis culture—all in the heart of Alberta.

Who Should Attend

Executives & Senior Leaders
HR & DEI Professionals
Educators & Administrators
Government & Non-Profit Teams

What You’ll Learn

Six Powerful Modules. One Transformative Journey

Historical Context of Indigenous Peoples in Canada
Understanding Settler Colonialism
Indigenous-Settler Relations
Métis Nation History and Identity
Cultural Worldviews & Reconciliation Practices
Personal and Organizational Reflection

What to Expect

Blending Head, Heart & Hands-on Learning Content Columns or Grid:

Academic Insights (in partnership with U of A)
Cultural Workshops (beading, storytelling, Métis dance)
Land-Based Learning (guided outdoor experiences)
Reflection & Dialogue (individual and group)

Why Métis Crossing

This session is designed for participants to explore several authentic, recommended Métis educational materials that help to create teachable moments and provide foundational learning opportunities throughout the school year. Building your foundational knowledge about Métis will empower you to select authentic, accurate resources that honour distinct Métis perspectives to weave into your current teaching practice. Together we will explore resources designed by Métis educators that weave Métis voices into your learning.

Logistics & Booking

Details to Include:

Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Location: Métis Crossing, Smoky Lake, Alberta
Accommodations and meals included
Group pricing available

Reserve Your Spot or Inquire About Group Rates

Our Awards

Discover the milestones of our success through the awards that celebrate our dedication to service and excellence in the industry.

Our awards

Common Questions

Is this course for non-Indigenous participants?

This course is open to everyone, including non-Indigenous participants.

Do I need prior knowledge?

No. You do not need any prior knowledge to participate in this course, just an open mind and willingness to learn.

Can I receive a certificate or micro-credential?

Yes, you will earn a certificate of completion and digital badge issued by the University of Alberta, and Métis Crossing, an affiliate of the Métis Nation within Alberta.

How much does the Indigenous Peoples and Canada course cost?

Course pricing varies based on group size and configuration. Contact the Métis Crossing team directly at salesmetiscrossing@metis.org or call 1-780-656-2229 to receive current pricing and group rate information

When does the next course session run?

Sessions are offered throughout the year at Métis Crossing in Smoky Lake, Alberta. Contact the team at salesmetiscrossing@metis.org to confirm upcoming dates and availability.

Can my organization book a private session for our team?

Yes. Group and corporate bookings are available. The program is well suited for organizations looking to fulfill DEI commitments, reconciliation action plans, or professional development requirements. Group pricing is available on request.

Is the course available online, or does it have to be attended in person?

The course is delivered in person at Métis Crossing in Smoky Lake, Alberta. The land-based learning, cultural workshops, and fire-side sessions with Métis knowledge holders are central to the program and cannot be replicated in a virtual format.

Experience the vibrant culture and heritage at Métis Crossing, celebrating the enduring legacy of Indigenous Peoples Canada and Métis Crossing for future generations. Contact us for more information.

We are Métis

Be Part of Canada’s Path to Reconciliation. Start with Understanding.

Understand legacy of the settler colonialism and affirm Indigenous self-determination.

During this 3-day executive retreat, participants take part in land based experiences rooted in Métis culture and history. You’ll have the opportunity to spend time around the fire with Métis knowledge holders, develop a wholistic understanding of the Métis, and relax in the Lodge and enjoy Indigenous inspired cuisine.

About this course

This course is offered in partnership with the University of Alberta. Earn a certificate of completion and digital badge issued by the University of Alberta, and Métis Crossing, an affiliate of the Métis Nation within Alberta.

Download the Course Info

What's covered

We hope this course will serve as an act of reconciliation leading to deeper relations with Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

Faculty of Native Studies (University of Alberta) Indigenous Peoples and Canada Course

A 6-module micro-course that looks at Indigenous historical and contemporary experiences in order to understand the legacy of settler colonialism and affirm Indigenous self-determination. This course covers topics like worldview, resources and relations, governance and treaty, institutionalization, contemporary communities, and resistance and resiliency. Course content will sharpen learners’ critical thinking skills to strengthen personal and professional ethics and will deepen Indigenous/nonIndigenous collaboration through building literacy about Indigenous societies, enhancing intercultural awareness, and obtaining balanced facts about Canadian history and current realities.

Otipemisiwak - The People Who Own Themselves

Gain insights to the self-determination of the Metis Nation, from the 1800s to present day. It has been said the best tool of the Metis People was organization, from small provisional governments to the largest Indigenous Self-Government in Canada, an overview of the journey and what this means for the future will be discussed. The Metis Crossing team will engage you in a series of our Signature experiences developed to share Metis worldviews. They will allow you to better understand Metis relationships with the land, animals, water and skies and invite you to reconnect.

Traditional Art Project

Partake in a Traditional Art project, providing opportunities for interactive, hand-on learning. Our art project reflects the shifting needs and practices of the Metis people. Join our Metis knowledge holder and make your own wall pocket. Cultural discussions and teachings will happen throughout. The wall pocket becomes a literal and figurative place to keep your personal reflections and knowledge gained throughout the course.

What you will experience

Discover past
and present

Deepen your understanding of Métis heritage through stories from our experienced guides and traditional knowledge-keepers.

Find your
connection

Connect to the Métis way of life through the sharing of practices, traditions, and foods central to Métis culture.

Learn by
living

Participate in unique activities designed to bring you closer to Métis past, present and future.

Feed your
understanding

Experience the healing potential of this powerful place, through a new appreciation for our land, wildlife and shared history.

Book Your Experience