About the Organization:

Tajikeimik is the new and developing health and wellness organization that is leading health transformation on behalf of Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia. In collaboration with Chiefs, Grand Council, and Health Directors, Tajikeimik will build on and evolve the health and wellness services and programs used by Mi’kmaw people in Nova Scotia; improve health service delivery; and strengthen coordination with Federal and Provincial health system partners—with the goal of improving overall health for Mi’kmaq and communities.

Elukuti’kw wjit naji-wlo’ltinenew utanminal. ~ We are working toward better health for all in our communities.

Position overview:

Tajikeimik is seeking a Birth Rights Coordinator to oversee the implementation and coordination of the Mi’kmaw/Indigenous Birth Rights project in Nova Scotia. This role involves planning, organizing, and executing initiatives to educate healthcare professionals, support Mi’kmaw/Indigenous life givers, and facilitate the revitalization of traditional birth practices. The Birth Rights Coordinator will be a member of the newly developed Tajikeimik Midwifery team, and will work closely with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, healthcare providers, and community members to ensure the successful delivery of the Mi’kmaw/Indigenous Birth Rights Initiative.

What you’ll do:

Specific responsibilities will include but will not be limited to:

• Lead the planning and delivery of the Mi’kmaw/Indigenous Birth Rights project, including scans, policy reviews, module development, education, and evaluation.
• Manage project plans and timelines; track deliverables, milestones, and deadlines.
• Build and sustain relationships with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, healthcare professionals, Health Directors, and community leaders, and support a network to enable birth-related ceremonies.
• Organize and facilitate gatherings to support learning and revitalization of traditional birthing ceremonies (e.g., cedar baths, walking-out ceremonies, placenta ceremonies).
• Coordinate education delivery for healthcare professionals, including lunch-and-learns and module rollouts at regional hospitals across Nova Scotia.
• Provide program administration, documentation, and reporting; prepare updates and a strategic outcomes report with recommendations.
• Collaborate with Policy and Planning and external partners (e.g., IWK, NSH) to review labour-and-delivery policies and recommend opportunities to embed Mi’kmaw/Indigenous Birth Rights.
• Oversee development of culturally relevant resources (e.g., learning
  modules, LMS content, pamphlets, hospital plaques) aligned with
  Mi’kmaw perspectives and community priorities.
  

What we’re looking for:

• Strong lived experience and knowledge of Mi’kmaw culture and language.
• Experience working with Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
• Experience working with, establishing, and leading groups.
• Knowledge of the systemic harm experienced by Indigenous people accessing the Health System during pregnancy and birth, including but not limited to Birth Alert system, coerced and forced sterilization, racism and lack of access to culturally safe care.
• Knowledge and support of Tajikeimik’s vision and mission, with a personal commitment to advancing Mi’kmaw health and wellness through self-determination.

Your qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Three years experience in project management, community engagement, or healthcare coordination
• Strong understanding of Mi’kmaw culture, traditions and birth practices.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse partners, including Mi’kmaw organizations and communities, healthcare professionals, and government representatives.
• Experience in policy review and development is an asset.
• Familiarity with healthcare systems, culturally safe and trauma informed care practices.
• Commitment to advancing the health, wellness, and self-determination of Mi’kmaw communities.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout Nova Scotia.
• An up-to-date Criminal Record Check, and Child Abuse Registry Check.
  

Salary: Compensation will be discussed with shortlisted candidates and is commensurate with experience, qualifications, market benchmarks and internal equity.
Service Location: Millbrook or Membertou, with the possibility of a hybrid or home working model
Closing: Open until filled
Position Type: 1-Year Term

Designated position for Mi’kmaw applicants.

Please email your resume and cover letter in confidence to careers@mhwns.ca, citing “Birth Rights Coordinator -Tajikeimik” in the subject line. To help us manage the recruitment process, please submit your application to the email address listed in this posting. We are only able to accept applications received through this email.

We appreciate all expressed interest in the position; however, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.