Be-Dah-Bin Gamik, a Place of New Beginnings
With the support of Elders, we named Indigenous Services Be-Dah-Bin Gamik. This Anishinaabek phrase translates to a Place of New Beginnings, representing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual work we do to embody the teachings that come with holding space for new beginnings.
We provide academic and cultural services and support for Indigenous students at Conestoga, including First Nations (status and non-status), Métis, and Inuit. Students reconnecting to their Indigenous identities can attend our events and access Be-Dah-Bin Gamik services.
Non-Indigenous students are welcome to attend our campus-wide community events and workshops in collaboration with various departments.
Our commitment to Indigenous students
At Be-Dah-Bin Gamik, we support Indigenous students through culturally informed services and programs as well as prioritize land-based supports.
Be-Dah-Bin Gamik is where Indigenous (First, Nations, Metis, and Inuit) students, college employees, and their guests can gather to study, access technology, and socialize. We live in relationship with the land through teaching gardens, land-based teachings, and increased access to land-based activities.
By integrating Indigenous knowledge and practices into all aspects of college life, we empower Indigenous students to thrive and shine on campus and within their communities.
Be-Dah-Bin Gamik locations
Kitchener - Doon campus: 2A601 (main level, A wing) (pdf map)
Waterloo campus: 1F08 (beside Tim Hortons) (pdf map)
Student programming & events
The services, programming and events below are reserved for Indigenous (First Nations, Metis, Inuit) students. Sign up for email updates and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for monthly schedules.
Elders in Residence
Every week, Elders from various nations share their Indigenous wisdom, skills, language, and cultural heritage with students.
Weekly lunches
Join us every Wednesday for a free warm lunch in a community setting—no registration needed.
Workshops & land-based education
We provide various Indigenous-led workshops and learning opportunities in a welcoming environment that encourage connecting with others and enhances your college experience.
Indigenous student success
We provide Indigenous-led services and support, including accessible learning, mental health and wellness support, and help you understand the college’s policies and procedures.
Healing Garden
A land-based educational space to help us learn how to live-in-relationship with the land. This project is cared for by Weejindamaan Project, Be-Dah-Bin-Gamik and the School of Interdisciplinary Studies.
Volunteer & engagement opportunities
Be-Dah-Bin Gamik offers a range of volunteer and engagement opportunities for Indigenous students and employees, which are shared through our social media accounts.
Bursaries & scholarships
Bursary and scholarship information is shared via our social media accounts. We host workshops each term to help students with the application process.
Book an appointment with us
Current students can book an appointment with our Indigenous student wellness advisor by emailing jhill1@conestogac.on.ca.Community events
The Office of Indigenous Initiatives, Be-Dah-Bin-Gamik and Conestoga welcome the community to join us at our annual events.
Annual pow wow
Conestoga’s annual pow wow is a cultural celebration for Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members to gather with pride and honour Indigenous cultures.
Directions Indigenous Music Festival
Be-Dah-Bin Gamik held the Directions Indigenous Music Festival in November 2023. A great lineup of Indigenous music, including Semiah, The Ra11n, and Shawnee Kish joined together at the event.
Orange shirt fundraiser
In recognition of
Truth and Reconciliation Week, an orange shirt fundraiser was held at various Conetoga bookstores.
National Indigenous Peoples Day
On June 21, we recognized, celebrated, and honoured Indigenous cultures and communities.
Indigenous Circle
We collaborate closely with CSI’s Indigenous Circle, a working group dedicated to supporting Indigenous students by offering relevant, timely, and informative student engagement initiatives.