Ocean Man First Nation and Southeast College came together this week to celebrate the success of students who recently completed a computer skills program, a partnership that community leaders say highlights both education and the spirit of the treaty.
Newly elected councillor Justin Holeness, who carries the justice and youth, and recreation portfolios, said the collaboration reflects the values of sharing and building opportunities that are rooted in history.
“The partnership between Southeast College and Ocean Man First Nation can also symbolize the true meaning and spirit, and intent of the treaty,” Holeness explained. “To see the initiative take place is a real reflection of what that can look like moving forward.”
Holeness said watching graduates complete their projects and share their ideas was a proud moment for the community. He noted that the program not only gave students tangible skills but also helped them see new possibilities for their futures.
“For Southeast College to provide an opportunity where members can see themselves building a business, maybe exploring a new career opportunity, really opens up their imagination of what they can achieve,” Holeness said. “It gave them a sense of excitement in what they were trying to accomplish.”
He added that the showcase of student work revealed a strong spirit of entrepreneurship, something he hopes will continue to grow in the community.
The celebration drew not only Ocean Man members but also guests from Estevan and surrounding areas, highlighting the broader impact of the program. Holeness believes this year’s graduates will inspire more people to take part if the partnership continues in the future.
“Any opportunity for members to be involved that can improve their skills, that can improve their ability to achieve goals, turn their visions into something tangible, is something we as a nation would always be willing to support,” he said.
The event marked another step in building bridges between Ocean Man First Nation and regional partners, with both communities looking ahead to what next year could bring.