Monica has made many meaningful contributions at RRC Polytech, working with the School of Indigenous Education and Indigenous Student Supports over the past 10 years. She began as an Indigenous Liaison Advisor and has served as acting Program Manager and acting ACCESS Pathways Manager.  

Monica holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Winnipeg, a Certificate in Real Property Assessment from UBC and is Alumni, with a certificate in Business and Administrative Studies. She has completed many leadership development training courses through ENABLE and is one of RRC Polytech’s Culture Champions and Diversity Champions. 

Monica is passionate about eliminating barriers and sustaining a strong student-centred approach for First Nation, Métis, and Inuit people in education.  She believes in working together as one, with one heart/mind. In her free time, Monica enjoys camping, concerts, staying active, painting, and spending time with family and friends. 

Saleh Saffari moved to Canada from Iran in 2012, after having taught English as a foreign language for 10 years and obtaining his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English Literature. He received his TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) certificate from the University of Manitoba and got his first job in Canada at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT), while also teaching in different programs at the University of Manitoba and University of Winnipeg and working for CanTest and IELTS as a speaking examiner. 

Saleh joined RRC Polytech in 2015, working at the Language Training Centre as an instructor, PBLA Lead Teacher, and Curriculum Group Leader. He started studying for his Ph.D. in Education at the U of M in 2021 and is currently preparing to write his thesis proposal. 

Saleh has a passion for learning about Indigenous cultures and languages and looks forward to contributing to this community in his new role.