We want to share an amazing opportunity from the First Nations Centre of Excellence for Economic Development (FNCOE): their new BC/YT Young Indigenous Leaders Exchange Program. This pilot is designed to give young Indigenous leaders (like you!) a chance to connect, learn and grow through meaningful cultural, academic and leadership experiences. (WEBSITE)
What the program involves
The exchange is made up of three phases:
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Phase
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Location, Time
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Details
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1 – BC Experience
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Canada (BC and Ottawa), 1 week
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Participants will begin the program here in BC in March 2026. The first days will take place at TFN, where you will meet the other participants and the Advisory Circle, followed by travel to Ottawa for meetings, workshops and learning experiences focused on leadership, culture and economic development.
After this initial meeting week in March, participants will then engage with partner groups, leaders and organizations elsewhere in Canada. This phase focuses on building relationships, exploring Nation-to-Nation connections and gaining insight into policy, governance and community development across regions. (this will be done virtually)
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2 – International Exchange
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Indo-Pacific Region, 3 weeks
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Participants will travel to countries in the Indo-Pacific to learn about Indigenous and local approaches to diplomacy, trade, environmental stewardship, sustainable development, education and community leadership.
Examples of possible locations include New Zealand, Australia, Japan and Singapore.
Travel will be either in April, May/June or August – Participants can share the time they prefer to travel
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3 – Reporting
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Canada (location TBD), 3 Days
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Participants will come back together to share experiences and continue to build their network. They will present their project findings to First Nation leaders, sponsors and partners.
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The overall goal is for participants to return with experiences, knowledge and networks that support their goals and benefit their communities.
Who might be a strong fit
You may be a great candidate if:
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You are a TFN member between 21 and 30 years old.
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You are studying or working in areas such as business, anthropology, language and culture, governance, community development, environmental studies, clean technology, aquaculture, critical minerals, engineering or trades.
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You are serving on Council or working in a Nation department.
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You are interested in diplomacy, international relations or Indigenous leadership.
Want to learn more or apply?
We will host an information session during the first week of January.
If you’re interested in learning more or possibly applying, please call or email Lindsey Frederickson (Manager of Education)
Email: lfrederickson@tsawwassenfirstnation.com
Phone: 604.290.1285
Applications are due January 16. Our team will support you through the full application process if you choose to move forward and will sponsor your participation in the opportunity if you are chosen.
We look forward to hearing from those interested in this unique opportunity. If you know of any Member who would be a good fit, please pass this onto them and encourage them to reach out.