We are delighted to share that Tim Brownlow, Director of Industry Relations with Atlantic Towing, now has a scholarship in his name! The Tim Brownlow Marine Award celebrates Brownlow's dedication and commitment to supporting NSCC students and the work of the Nova Scotia Community College, in addition to his forty years of experience in the offshore oil and gas sector. Students attending the NSCC Nautical Institute's Strait Area Campus were eligible to apply for the $1,000 award in September of 2021, and in the years to come. Preference will be given to Indigenous applicants at the request of Brownlow, who has devoted years to cultivating strong Indigenous partnerships on both the East and West coasts.

Mobilizing a Remote Workforce: Some have called it the “remote work revolution” and have suggested that it could be the most important and significant opportunity for job creation and economic empowerment for Indigenous peoples ever! We at ITFC agree! ITFC offers individuals and communities the opportunity to expand their reach and create jobs for their people through an innovative fully ecommerce freelance functionality. Enhanced connectivity provides gateway to mobilize a remote workforce providing income, an important social determinant of health! Indigenous economic inclusion needs to be the “new reality” was the theme of a conference held in BC as the speaker discussed the benefits of engagement with Indigenous peoples. With billions of dollars in new projects and developments the opportunity for inclusion and engagement has never been greater. It is not however limited to “big” projects. Corporate Canada has identified the Indigenous economy as one of the most promising economic opportunities and yet have not figured out how to effectively engage it. We have provided a gateway for them to do so! We have provided an opportunity and an alternative to corporate Canada who are not ready to commit to a “full time hire” but are willing to hire Freelancers that can provide insight in a wide range of economic opportunities. Its not just about artists who are looking for commissions, or IT people who are looking for a short-term gig, its about every aspect of the economy. Its about a sport shop who would like to sell uniforms to your communities’ sports teams, a pipe shop who would like to engage someone with public works experience, a company who is looking for a general economic update on opportunities within your area and will contract for the info. The opportunities are great, your participation is free and it will power the local economy for years to come.