Nicola Valley Institute of Technology

Your hard work deserves recognition!

NVIT offers a variety of entrance awards exclusively for NVIT students. With opportunities that recognize academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and financial need, now is the time to explore what funding may be available to you.

Deadline to apply: August 15, 2026
Learn more: https://www.nvit.ca/apply/awards/entrance-awards/

NVIT campuses will be closed on August 3rd, in observance of BC Day. Campuses will reopen on August 4th. NVIT hopes everyone enjoys a safe long weekend!

As a member of the Lower Nicola Indian Band and a student in NVIT's Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work programs, Melissa Moses is driven by a passion for creating meaningful change for Indigenous people and communities. Inspired by Indigenous lawyer and advocate Sharon McIvor, Melissa chose NVIT for its commitment to Indigenous ways of knowing, community connection, and holistic learning.

As a First Nations woman, Melissa has witnessed the impacts of intergenerational trauma, colonial systems, and barriers faced by many Indigenous families. Through her studies, she has gained the knowledge and skills to support healing, advocacy, and empowerment in culturally grounded ways, while feeling supported by a community of Indigenous students, instructors, and perspectives.

One of Melissa's proudest achievements was helping organize the Community Connections event through her practicum placement with the Nicola Valley Advocacy Centre and creating the Law and Social Justice Club at NVIT. These experiences allowed her to bring people together, foster meaningful conversations, and raise awareness about advocacy, justice, and community support.

A particularly impactful milestone came when Sharon McIvor invited Melissa to shadow her at the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in Geneva, Switzerland. The experience reinforced the importance of Indigenous voices in international spaces and strengthened Melissa's confidence as a leader and advocate.

Looking ahead, Melissa hopes to continue supporting Indigenous wellness, women's empowerment, and community development through culturally grounded programs focused on healing and safety. She also plans to attend law school, where she can further advocate for Indigenous Peoples, Title and Rights, and social justice. By combining social work, advocacy, self-defence education, and law, Melissa aims to help create stronger, healthier communities for future generations.

Melissa's leadership, dedication, and commitment to community are helping create positive change both locally and beyond.

To learn more about what our Associate of Arts Degree program has to offer, visit www.nvit.ca

Today marks Métis Nation Day, a time to celebrate the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Métis Nation. Through reflection, learning, and recognition, we honour the enduring strength and legacy of Métis communities.

As a proud member of the Nisga'a and St'at'imc Nations and a graduate of NVIT's Associate of Arts in Criminology program, Dalena Gosnell is building a future dedicated to advocacy and supporting Indigenous communities. Her passion for law and justice led her to NVIT, where she found an educational experience grounded in Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.

What drew Dalena to NVIT was the opportunity to explore how the justice system impacts Indigenous Peoples. Through her studies, she developed a deeper understanding of criminology while examining legal systems through an Indigenous lens, helping prepare her for her future goals.

"My goal is to attend the University of Victoria's Joint Law Degree Program in Canadian Common Law and Indigenous Legal Orders," says Dalena. "NVIT's program was perfect for gaining the knowledge necessary for this career path."

One of the most meaningful aspects of Dalena's experience at NVIT has been the support she received from her instructors. She credits both her academic success and personal growth to the strong relationships she built throughout her studies.

"The instructors cared for the students, which makes a huge difference," she says. "Connection is vital in education, especially for Indigenous students."

A milestone that reflects Dalena's determination was returning to classes just 12 days after giving birth. Balancing motherhood, family responsibilities and post-secondary studies was challenging, but with the support of her family and understanding instructors, she successfully completed her degree.

Looking ahead, Dalena plans to continue her studies at Simon Fraser University before pursuing the University of Victoria's Joint Law Degree Program. Her strong academic performance and the connections she built at NVIT have opened doors to new opportunities and brought her one step closer to her dream of a career in law and Indigenous justice.

With a strong foundation, a clear vision and a passion for advocacy, Dalena is well on her way to making a difference.

To learn more about what our Associate of Arts program has to offer, visit nvit.ca.

Education grows strongest when it is rooted in community.

Through NVIT Community Education, we bring post-secondary learning opportunities directly to Indigenous communities across British Columbia and beyond, making it possible to learn close to home while balancing family, work, and community commitments.

We're honoured to walk alongside communities in supporting learners on their educational journeys.

Invite us to your community.
[email protected]

At NVIT, learning is about more than earning a credential. It is about connection, culture, community, and discovering your path.

Rooted in Indigenous knowledge, values, and ways of learning, our programs provide opportunities to grow academically, personally, and professionally. Whether your interests are in trades, health, social work, business, Indigenous language fluency, environmental studies, or beyond, you belong here.

We are here to support you on your journey, every step of the way.

Connect with our Recruiter today: 🔗 bit.ly/NVIT-Recruitment

Learn more: nvit.ca

Join us at NVIT’s Merritt Campus for FOODSAFE Level 1 on September 1, 2026 from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Learn essential food handling, sanitation, and safety practices required for working in the food service industry.

Application deadline: August 8, 2026

Learn more & register:
https://www.nvit.ca/programs/study-at-nvit/continuing-studies/
Take the first step toward safe food service, don’t miss out!

Continuing Studies - NVIT NVIT is dedicated to Indigenous education, empowerment, and cultural preservation. As BC’s Indigenous public post-secondary institute, we offer a supportive learning environment grounded in Indigenous knowledge and values.

NVIT campuses will be closed on July 1st, in observance of Canada Day. Campuses will reopen on July 2nd. NVIT hopes everyone enjoys a safe Wednesday to everyone!

Join us at NVIT’s Merritt Campus for a 2-Day Standard First Aid with CPR ‘C’ course on August 26–27, 2026.

Build the skills and confidence to respond to a wide range of emergencies at home, in the workplace, or in your community.

Registration deadline: August 14, 2026

Learn more & register:
https://www.nvit.ca/programs/study-at-nvit/continuing-studies/

Spots are limited, secure yours today!