Connecting Students to Goals – IN THE CIRCLE

Sharing success stories is one of the things Cara Lenoir loves about her job. A Marketing Specialist at the Native Education College (NEC) in Vancouver, Cara loves learning about the stories from NEC Alumni, students, and staff. “They are quite amazing,” she explains. “I enjoy learning about the heart of their stories and sharing it with people so that they may spark inspiration in others.”

Lenoir is a member of the Dene Nation from Hay River in the Northwest Territories and has been at her NEC job for nearly 14 months. Prior to that she worked as a Business Strategist for the City of Calgary on a year-long contract while doing business consulting work on the side. Her position at NEC, Lenoir believes, is a perfect complement to her business and education background. Lenoir graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Royal Roads University in Victoria and has also completed continuing education courses in Technical Communication and Public Relations.

In her daily work, Lenoir uses a variety of skills she learned both in school and from past jobs including interpersonal communication, project management, public relations, oral and written communication, and the ability to use social media, write webcopy and news releases. All of these skills help her do a part of the job she loves the best – helping people. “I love helping people – especially Indigenous people who want to make a better life for themselves, whether it’s going back to school or finding employment.”

Her work at NEC also allows Lenoir to meet new people. “I thrive on meeting new people and being able to make connections that will help them achieve their goals,” she says. “Whether its sharing information about new job opportunities with students, it’s a great part of my day.” A big part of Lenoir’s job is increasing public awareness of NEC. “Attending community events is my favourite. Whether it’s a career fair or pow wow – this job offers great opportunities for connecting with people who want to make a difference in their lives.” Lenoir also enjoys meeting other colleagues within the marketing industry, from First Nation communities, or other companies. “Making connections and referring potential opportunities to various stakeholders is something I enjoy doing.”

Having worked in the corporate and non-profit sectors has given Cara Lenoir a powerful understanding of both worlds. Lenoir says the best thing about working for an ANP is the teamwork. “There is less bureaucracy. I really work with a team of people who are committed to working together to achieve the same goal.”