National Indigenous Advocacy Committee (NIAC) Member

Calling All First Nations, Métis and Inuit Students:

Are you passionate about advocating for First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) students' rights and education? The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) is looking for a First Nations, Métis or Inuit student to represent us on the National Indigenous Advocacy Committee (NIAC) within the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA)!

What is NIAC?

NIAC is a national advocacy body within CASA, composed of FNMI students from coast to coast to coast. NIAC is working to make sure that FNMI students have opportunities to enter and succeed in post-secondary education and advocates for increased action to meet the Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. 

You will work directly with UASU President Pedro Almeida and Vice President External Abdul Abbasi on the federal level to accomplish this in the lead-up to Advocacy Week in November 2025, where student leaders from across Canada meet with Members of Parliament, Ministers, and interest holders to increase investments in post-secondary education in Canada. 

Food, transportation, and accommodations are covered by the UASU. An honorarium of $500 per semester (Fall/Winter) is also provided. 

You can find more information about CASA and being a NIAC delegate here.

The time commitment:

NIAC meets every two weeks, over Zoom. 

No experience is required, but this is an advocacy committee, so representatives should come prepared to speak about their experiences as an Indigenous students. This may mean speaking about your experiences to other Indigenous students, non-Indigenous students, Members of Parliament, or other audiences. CASA will never make you do anything you don’t feel comfortable doing, but with an advocacy focus, NIAC’s goal is to convince the government of Canada to make investments in Indigenous education, and this requires speaking to many people!  

Why Apply?

Be a voice for FNMI students on a national level.

Network with FNMI leaders and advocates from across Canada.

Attend conferences and events.

Gain valuable advocacy and leadership experience.

How to Apply?

Fill out the application form and tell us why you would be a great NIAC delegate!

If you have any questions about the application or the role please contact Vice President External Abdul Abbasi [email protected]

Application Deadline:

Applications are open on a rolling basis! This means there's no fixed deadline, but we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. 

Selection will be based on consensus and consultation with Indigenous student representatives. We will review all applications and contact shortlisted candidates for an introduction.

Thank you for your interest! Let’s work together to create positive change and support Indigenous students' success in post-secondary education!