Professional Resources and Networking for Indigenous Youth and Young Professionals
Traditional Understandings of Gender Diversity
Volunteer driven and operated, Friendship Centres began in the mid-1950s as the number of Indigenous people moving into larger urban areas increased. Indigenous agencies emerged out of a clear need for specialized services to help Indigenous newcomers to the city. These agencies would provide referrals and offer counselling on matters of employment, housing, education, health and liaison with other community organizations.
Across the world, organizations and groups are advancing action to ensure young people have access to decent work. The Decent Work for Youth (DWFY) project aims to empower urban Indigenous youth across Canada to succeed in employment settings by strengthening their diverse leadership skills and networks.
IndigeSTEAM ‘s mission is the provision of Indigenous-led and culturally-relevant programming in STEM/STEAM to support a better future for Indigenous youth in STEM, through spaces that are ethical and respect Indigenous culture and Ways of Knowing. IndigeSTEAM brings in Indigenous STEM role models and train non-Indigenous and Indigenous STEM professionals how best to work with Indigenous youth and youth in general, and also provides the Indigenous STEM professionals with networking and support that recognizes their need to walk in two worlds.
The Indigenous Professional Association of Canada
The Indigenous Professional Association of Canada is dedicated to advancing Indigenous leadership in the private, public and social sectors. IPAC serves its members through professional skill building, network development and the recognition of excellence. Through its mission, IPAC offers First Nations, Inuit and Métis professionals the opportunity to connect, learn and prosper as a community.
First Nations and Inuit Summer Work Experience Program
This program provides youth with summer employment opportunities where they can gain work experience and develop important skills such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork. Projects under the First Nations and Inuit Summer Work Experience Program allow youth to learn about career options and earn an income that can contribute to a university or college education.
