Khalil Jiwa

Background

About Khalil Jiwa

With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, my career has been dedicated to fostering the social, emotional, and cultural well-being of children. My journey has taken me through many roles and experiences, each shaping my approach to teaching and care. One significant milestone was founding CampUS, a mindfulness-based program created to nurture resilience, confidence, and emotional awareness in young learners. At CampUS, I developed and directed curriculum that integrated meditation, mindfulness, and play as daily practices, cultivating an environment rooted in compassion, patience, and growth. This venture allowed me to see firsthand how intentional, inclusive approaches can empower children and strengthen families. The experience of leading CampUS! reinforced my belief that high-quality early childhood programs must not only support developmental milestones but also reflect cultural identity and community values. This understanding has shaped my current role as an Early Childhood Education Recruitment and Retention Specialist with Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC). At MNBC, I focus on strengthening the Métis early learning and child care sector by designing and implementing initiatives that recruit, retain, and empower Early Childhood Educators across the province. I work closely with communities, educators, and partners to create opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and cultural integration in early learning spaces. My role allows me to bridge my passion for child development with workforce planning, ensuring Métis families have access to programs that honor identity, values, and traditions. Throughout my career, a consistent thread has been my commitment to creating enriching, inclusive experiences for children and educators alike. Whether through innovative mindfulness programs or systemic workforce development, I strive to contribute to a future where every child has the foundation to thrive — emotionally, socially, and culturally.