Training Opportunity: Building Culturally Safe Spaces in Sport & Recreation

The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) has officially opened Expressions of Interest for its Indigenous Cultural Safety Training program for the 2026 and 2027 cohorts.

This professional development opportunity is designed specifically for leaders within the sport, recreation, and physical activity sectors—particularly Provincial Sport Organizations—looking to foster true belonging, break down systemic barriers, and strengthen relationships with Indigenous athletes and communities.

Why This Training Matters

For many Indigenous people, historical trauma, lack of facility access, and funding disparities create significant barriers to participation in sports and recreation. I·SPARC’s training provides the vital insights and tools needed to dismantle these inequities, helping organizations co-create a safer, more inclusive, and braver future for all participants.

Program Structure & Curriculum

The training blends online, self-paced, and in-person learning across five distinct sessions:

Orientation (Online)

Format: 1-hour Zoom call.

Focus: Introduction to the cultural safety training framework.

Foundational Learning (Self-Paced Online)

Format: Independent online modules exploring historical and current realities.

Key Topics:

    • Part 1: History to Present Day
    • Part 2: Present Day – Impact and Inequities
    • Part 3: From Truth to Reconciliation

Alex Nelson Shared Experiences (Online Video)

Format: Video-led learning.

Group Session (In-Person)

Format: An immersive, two-day in-person gathering for collective learning and team-building.

Debrief & Reflection (Online)

Format: 1-hour Zoom call.

Focus: Sharing takeaways, reflecting on the experience, and discussing future organizational growth.

Key Details & How to Apply

  • Who it’s for: Sport leaders, coaches, and Provincial Sport Organizations committed to meaningful reconciliation and development

  • Cost: Funding support is available through I·SPARC. Once an application is approved and confirmed, a $75 registration fee per participant applies

  • Timeline: I·SPARC kindly requests expressions of interest are submitted by June 24, 2026

  • Take the Next Step: Enhance your leadership, boost your team’s confidence, and make actionable choices toward systemic change. Submit your Expression of Interest today to secure a spot for your organization