We welcome you to take part in the UBC Learning Circle, an ongoing videoconference initiative that encourages sharing knowledge about our health and well-being. The UBC Learning Circle is a partnership among the UBC Division of Aboriginal People’s Health (DAPH), the First Nations Health Council (FNHC) and First Nations and Inuit Health (FNIH). Our intention is to provide educational and informational opportunities to health care workers and professionals in First Nations communities. The knowledge comes from your sharing of successful health practices and interventions, speakers, researchers and other experts.

The concept for the Learning Circle began with an informal dialogue between Joe Gallagher, Rose Adams, and Dr. Evan Adams at the November 2006 Health Director’s Conference where video conferencing was being used by Health Canada to record the event. As a result of that discussion, UBC’s Division of Aboriginal People’s Health was inspired to continue these dialogues among communities by utilizing videoconference technology.  We quickly saw the potential to share knowledge of our health and well-being and support our personal and professional development.

Our community partnerships and weekly discussions strengthen the Learning Circle and continue to make it a valuable asset to Aboriginal health practices. Many of us at Aboriginal People’s Health and the Learning Circle are from remote communities ourselves. We know how difficult it is to be able to participate in lectures and additional training that originate in urban environments, as well as remaining connected to new and innovative programs and research. Let us be your bridge.