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A unique MBA grounded in Indigenous knowledge

The MBA was announced in 2022, unveiled as part of an $8.4-million funding announcement by the BC Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. The program aligns with UVic’s commitment and actions on truth, respect and reconciliation, and developing new pathways for Indigenous students to higher education.

Designed for experienced Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders in the social services non-profit sector, the MBA AR equips students with management tools, strategic frameworks and the capacity to centre Indigenous knowledges in organizational practice.

Graduates of the MBA AR are continuing their careers in the social services sector, using the program to strengthen their leadership and bring systems-level change to their organizations and communities. Each student completed a Capstone Project rooted in their day-to-day work, designed to be directly applied within their fields. Recent project titles include Addressing Funding Inequities in Community Social Services by Jeremy Bara, The Power of Indigenous Matriarchal Leadership by Beverly Williams and Shifting from Permission to Partnership: A Guide for BC Friendship Centres to Engage with BC Municipalities by Annette Morgan.

“We grounded the program in listening and learning to build trust and reciprocal relationships,” says Bastien. “It represents a mutually beneficial, co-constructed journey of transformation and collaboration. We have more work to do, and it’s good that we have begun—together.” 

Reflections from the graduating class

Among the first to graduate with the MBA in Advancing Reconciliation is Nox Stikine, Annette Morgan—executive director of the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society. For Morgan, the program was a space to honour her roots and reflect on what meaningful change looks like in practice.

“As a matriarch, I am guided by my culture and community that inspired me to pursue the MBA in Advancing Reconciliation. I believe that by honoring our Indigenous laws and teachings, we can create pathways for meaningful change within the social sector, honouring a future where we thrive in a healthy environment.”

Morgan shares that the experience deepened her understanding of systemic barriers—and the importance of addressing them through an Indigenous lens.

“Reflecting on my time at Gustavson, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped my understanding of reconciliation. Personally, the journey of completing my MBA has transformed me in ways I never anticipated. I have deepened my understanding of the systemic barriers our communities face and the imperative to address them through an Indigenous lens. This program has reinforced my belief that reconciliation is not just a concept; it is a call to action that requires us to engage with our communities and empower our people. I have emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to advocate for change with the wisdom of my ancestors guiding me.”

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