Proven Community Leadership

Post Secondary Instructor of Indigenous Education
MBA in Community Economic Development
20 years building the West End

Community Builder

Indigenize Education

Throughout Canada, Indigenous communities are calling for the decolonizing, and Indigenizing of Education. As we are now aware, the Canadian education system was built solely from a Western World view and was often contrary to Indigenous ways of education and belief. In following best practices, here are some ways we can improve the education system (libguides.jibc.ca/indigenous).

-Work with Knowledge keepers and Elders when designing the curriculum

-Provide teachers support and training on incorporating Indigenous world views into lessons

-Visit Indigenous communities, and invite members of the community into the classroom

-Train and hire Indigenous teachers and staff

-Make schools more inclusive. Celebrate students' different abilities, special ways of learning, and self-representation.

Metis Community Roots

Jesse Gair's family has lived, and farmed, in the West End of Winnipeg since the 1820's. This connection to the neighbourhood drives Jesse's commitment to the community. Like his family before him, Jesse graduated at Isaac Brock and DMCI. Jesse's kid is continuing the tradition, studying within the Indigenous language program at Isaac Brook.

Community Development

Jesse Gair has 20 years of experience in leadership roles in non-profit organizations. In Ward 5 Jesse has worked for local community organizations in the roles of Executive Director, Safety Coordinator, Youth Programs Manager, and WRHA Outreach Worker. Jesse took a leading role in funding and running a resource centre, and youth drop-in in the community for over 10 years.

Post-Secondary Instructor

Jesse teaches college students of Social Innovation and Community Development, within the School of Indigenous Education, at Red River College Polytechnic.

Jesse holds a Master's of Business Administration in Community Economic Development, and a Diploma in Community Development / Community Economic Development.

Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal

In 2012 Jesse was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his work running programs for inner-city youth and families.

Metis Community

Jesse is proud of his Metis roots and follows Indigenous traditions and ceremonies. Jesse also volunteers as Treasurer on a Metis board.

Family

Family is at the heart of all of Jesse's work. Jesse and his family enjoy fishing and learning from the natural teachings of the world.

Community Dog

Jesse's dog worked with him full-time at the community resource center for over 5 years! Say hi next time you see him in the community, he's the big dog with braces!

Accreditation

Jesse is an Associate CIM/Chartered Manager, and on the path to become a full member by the end of the year.