The Knowledge Keeper supports the holistic well-being of students accessing the KOBE Safe Sober Site by providing cultural guidance, mentorship, and traditional teachings in a safe and respectful environment. Through the sharing of Indigenous knowledge, values, ceremonies, and cultural practices, the Knowledge Keeper helps students strengthen their cultural identity, build resilience, and foster a sense of belonging.

Working collaboratively with the Safe Sober Site team and other KOBE staff, the Knowledge Keeper contributes to culturally responsive care, promotes healing and wellness, and supports students in their educational and personal journeys.

Anticipated Schedule:
4 days on, 4 days off Rotation - 1 pm to 9 pm

Salary:
$30/hour

Cultural Guidance and Connection
The Knowledge Keeper will provide students with opportunities to strengthen their cultural identity and connection to Indigenous teachings, traditions, and values. This may include:

sharing traditional teachings and knowledge

participating in ceremonies and cultural activities

supporting land-based learning opportunities

encouraging respect, belonging, and community connection

helping students reconnect with culture as part of their healing journey

Emotional and Spiritual Support
The Knowledge Keeper will provide non-judgemental, compassionate, and relationship-based support to students experiencing emotional distress, homesickness, mental health challenges, or personal struggles.

Supports may include:

listening and mentorship

spiritual guidance and traditional healing approaches

prayers, teachings, and culturally grounded wellness practices

creating a calm, welcoming, and supportive environment

helping students build trust and positive relationships within the Safe Sober Site

Modeling Healthy Lifestyles




The Knowledge Keeper will serve as positive role models by demonstrating resilience, healthy living, cultural pride, and community leadership.

Their presence helps:

promote respectful behaviour and healthy decision-making

encourage sobriety and wellness

strengthen students' confidence and sense of identity

create a grounded and supportive atmosphere within the residence

Qualifications and Experience:

Recognized and respected Knowledge Keeper, or community mentor within Indigenous communities

Strong knowledge of Indigenous cultures, traditions, teachings, ceremonies, and holistic wellness approaches

Experience supporting Indigenous youth, families, and communities through mentorship, guidance, and relationship-building

Ability to provide culturally grounded emotional, spiritual, and wellness support to youth

Understanding of the impacts of intergenerational trauma, mental health, substance use, grief, and community healing

Ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, families, Elders, and community partners

Strong communication, listening, and interpersonal skills

Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries while providing compassionate support

Experience participating in cultural programming, ceremonies, land-based activities, or traditional teachings is considered an asset

Valid driver's license and ability to travel may be considered an asset

Clear Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check may be required in accordance with organizational policy

Knowledge and Skills:





Demonstrated knowledge of First Nations cultures, traditions, teachings, ceremonies, and cultural

Understanding of the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, intergenerational trauma, and their effects on Indigenous youth, families, and

Ability to build trusting, respectful, and supportive relationships with students from diverse First Nations

Robust communication, active listening, interpersonal, and mentoring

Ability to provide culturally grounded guidance while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries and

Experience facilitating cultural activities, teachings, ceremonies, and land-based learning

Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team while supporting a culturally safe and inclusive

Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and student needs.

Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic

Personal Attributes:

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

An ability to adjust to changes

Be honest and trustworthy

Is patient and caring

Ability to focus and concentrate over lengthy periods of time

Team player

Self-directed

Demonstrated interpersonal and leadership skills

Ability to meet the physical and emotional demands of working within a crisis and residential support environment

Ability to deal with tact and sound judgment in oral and written communications with staff and the public

The ability to coordinate and organize work

Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a multi-disciplinary team environment

Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity to Indigenous peoples

Ability to work effectively with staff, administration KOBE board, and First Nations

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📌 Knowledge Keeper (multiple positions) (Ontario)
🏢 Kobe
📍 Ontario