"N'AWQEN" ~ EN'OWKIN

The work En'owkin (prounounced eh-now-kehn) is an Okanagan conceptual metaphor describiting a process of clarification, conflict resolution & group commitment.

The En'owkin Centre (hereafter referred to as En'owkin) is a dynamic institution, which puts into practice the principles of self-determination and the validation of cultural aspirations and identity. An Indigenous cultural, educational, ecological and creative arts organization, En'owkin plays a lead role in the development and implementation of Indigenous knowledge and systems, both at the community and international levels.

The word En'owkin is an Okanagan concept, which describes a respectful dialogue of clarification, conflict resolution and group commitment, to come to the best solution; essentially, consensus.

Located on the Penticton Indian Band reserve, En'owkin's unique building design reflects a traditional Okanagan winter home also known as a pit house. It is a gathering place where families and community members can replenish themselves spiritually and is also a teaching place where story, co-operation, craft and artistry come together.

En'owkin's faculty is comprised of highly qualified educators, professional artists, writers, facilitators and Indigenous peoples advocates. En'owkin provides a culturally sensitive arts and culture learning environment in a nurturing and challenging atmosphere. En'owkin hosts many traditonal and contemporary arts workshops, exhibitions on the regional level for syilx members and partners within the wider community. On the national and international level En'owkin hosts conferences and forums related to Indigenous education, arts and culture as well as environmental concerns, which artists and students are encouraged to participate.

En'owkin has also partnered with many organizations in collaborative works which benefit the Syilx Nation members.

EN'OWKIN CENTRE OBJECTIVES

1. Operate a quality Indigenous Post-Secondary Institution offering educational programs to enhance Aboriginal culture, language, political development and leadership and excellence in Indigenous Arts training.
2. Operate a quality Indigenous Adult College Readiness program that transitions learners to assist in completion requirements and skills to enter programs of higher learning.
3. Operate a program for arts, culture and literacy, archives, and educational resources for the benefit of all peoples requiring such information.
4. Operate and offer umbrella services to language, culture and arts associations and collectives to encourage and foster higher levels of professionalism.

EN'OWKIN CENTRE MANDATE

In consideration of sacred responsibilities given to us by the Creator, upheld through our culture and continues nsyilxcen Language class through our Elders, we are committed to:

PROVIDE the educational needs and programs of the Indigenous people with full participation by the Elders, the parents and the community.

ENHANCE the mental, physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs of our people by preserving and reinforcing Indigenous culture, practice and teachings.

DEVELOP and implement community based education programs, which focus on the needs of the Indigenous community and are controlled and monitored at the community level.

RESTORE the Okanagan language to its rightful place as the communicator of the culture, under the guidance of the Elders.