Drawing inspiration from the Anishinaabe Teachings of the Seven Grandfathers, Our People. Our Culture. (APTN’s Culture Code) highlights the importance of leading our interactions in a positive way, from a place of understanding and appreciation for all of our employees and their relations. Much like the sacred teachings, the different pieces of Our People. Our Culture. are woven together and are intended as guiding principles in our conduct towards others and our surroundings.
Zaagi'idiwin
- We put our employees first and value them beyond measure.
- We honour our families and others, as well as ourselves.
- We make APTN a fun place to work and see laughter as medicine.
Minaadendamowin
- We honour all communities across Turtle Island.
- We seek inclusivity in everything that we do. You belong here.
- We strive to understand each other, have good dialogue, and develop strong working relationships.
Aakode`ewin
- We share our stories with the world and we know they make a difference.
- We are innovative, bold and courageous in our decisions.
- We embrace feedback and listen to new ideas without judgement.
Gwayakwaadiziwin
- We are trusting, honest and we hold each other accountable.
- We align our language with action and always do our best.
- We realize we have influence beyond our network and welcome this responsibility.
Nibwaakaawin
- We honour our employees’ wisdom in all its forms: knowledge, intelligence, histories, lived experiences and more.
- We are grounded in Indigenous teachings and storytelling.
- We are a leader in Indigenous programming, sharing voices and stories that need to be heard.
Dabaadendiziwin
- We encourage all APTN employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance and to pursue opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- We work collaboratively, asking for help when we need it and offering it when we can.
- We approach our work with humility, recognizing that there is always more to be learned.
Debwewin
- We are – and have always been – dedicated to truth and reconciliation.
- We aim to reflect diverse Indigenous voices, perspectives and realities.
- We believe in APTN and we are proud of what we achieve.
As we each reflect on these teachings, it’s important for us to ask ourselves which parts of them speak to us most. How do you see yourself in this culture code? How can you practice the principles of this code in your day-to-day work? What can you take away from this code that might help you outside of APTN? These are just a few of the questions that can help us gain a more in-depth understanding of Our People. Our Culture. Please keep in mind that we all bring different knowledge systems, identities and experiences to the table that will impact the way we interpret this code. What matters most is that we reflect on these teachings and practice them with intention.
This culture code was created in consultation with Elder Ruth Christie.