UBC members are proud to be part of the historic redevelopment of the former Kapyong Barracks site in Winnipeg, now officially known as Naawi-Oodena – meaning “centre of the heart and community.” Previously a military base, the land was initially transferred to the government. However, following a landmark court victory, Treaty One First Nations (T1N) successfully repatriated the majority of the 160-acre site.
Today, Naawi-Oodena is being transformed into the largest Indigenous-led urban economic zone in Canada, with a bold, multi-phase plan that includes residential, commercial, recreational, and educational spaces. The long-term build will unfold over the next 10 to 15 years.
UBC members are currently on-site working on Phase One of the project alongside contractor partner PCL Construction, which has made efforts to have a strong Indigenous presence on site – a powerful commitment to workforce inclusion and reconciliation.
When complete, Naawi-Oodena will stand as a national model of Indigenous excellence and community-led development, and indigenous UBC members will have played a key role in bringing that vision to life.
