Recognizing Leadership in Education for Indigenous Youth | Mastercard Foundation

Recognizing Leadership in Education for Indigenous Youth

A group of people standing in a wide circle joining hands in front of graphic art created by Debra Sparrow.

Recognizing commitment and outstanding achievement in post-secondary education for Indigenous youth.

The Mastercard Foundation announced $235 million in funding to 30 post-secondary institutions and organizations in recognition of their achievements and impact in education for Indigenous youth across Canada.

About the funding

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) highlighted education as a critical path forward towards reconciliation. Marking a decade of work under the TRC, the Mastercard Foundation is recognizing the commitment and outstanding achievements of 30 institutions. This funding will enable these institutions to scale successful programs to educate thousands of Indigenous youth over the next 10 years. Institutions will strengthen and scale programs ranging from trades to technology and from health care to engineering.

Since 2017, the Mastercard Foundation through its EleV Program has been working closely with partners across Canada to transform education and employment opportunities for Indigenous youth. This new commitment deepens the impact of the EleV Program, which to date has supported more than 65,000 young indigenous people through education, entrepreneurship and leadership development.

Watch the Message to Partner Organizations

Jennifer Brennan, Senior Director, Canada Programs speaks directly to partners receiving funding through this announcement.

The entrance of the First Nations University of Canada
A seating area at the Saskatchewan Institute of Technology
A group of people holding hands in a circle
Tow young people snowshoeing wearing winter gear with snowy mountains in the background
Beadwork craft of a flower with red, white, yellow and green glass beads on a red fabric

Learn more about the commitment

Learn more
A group of people holding hands in a circle

Why this is important

“We are proud to support the outstanding work of Indigenous institutions and major universities that are transforming the lives of young Indigenous people. This game-changing work is rooted in reconciliation from improved healthcare services in communities to innovative businesses that are providing clean energy, cultural programs that are revitalizing Indigenous languages, and young people who are graduating as health, technology and land stewardship leaders.”

Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation.

Red accent square, artwork by Debra Sparrow.
Artwork by Debra Sparrow

“This is an act of solidarity with Survivors and their families. It ensures that the truths entrusted to the NCTR will be preserved, protected, and shared with future generations. Our work is not only about safeguarding – it is also about justice, education, and transformation.” 

Stephanie Scott, Executive Director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.

Teal accent square, artwork by Debra Sparrow.
Artwork by Debra Sparrow

“The Mastercard Foundation continues to be a true partner to First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv), supporting our vision, leadership, and autonomy. Through our existing partnership with the Mastercard Foundation’s EleV Program, we are achieving academic, legal, and financial independence. This new funding further supports FNUniv’s goal of self-determination and significant growth over the long term, nurturing the ambitions of this unique national Indigenous post-secondary institution for many generations into the future.” 

Mizowaykomiguk paypomwayotung, Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann, President, First Nations University of Canada.

Teal accent square, artwork by Debra Sparrow.
Artwork by Debra Sparrow

“With this landmark funding, the University of Manitoba (UM) is committed to continued collaboration with Indigenous partners, acting boldly to support Indigenous learners to thrive and to amplify Indigenous leadership. This builds on our longstanding partnership with the EleV Program, which has been instrumental in our efforts to transform the experiences and opportunities of Indigenous students at our university today, and for generations to come.”

Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Manitoba.

Red accent square, artwork by Debra Sparrow.
Artwork by Debra Sparrow

Artist Statement

“Let me first just say that I am always humbled to step forward and share the beauty of these patterns. I recognize these patterns as being cross-cultural and connected throughout the world. The connection to me, and I hope the youth, is a connection to our histories. No matter where we come from, the important thing about life is that we’re rooted to where we’re from—and that’s what connects us to ourselves and to these patterns.”

Debra Sparrow, Musqueam, Weaver and Multidisciplinary artist.

Image of artist Debra Sparrow

About our work in Canada

The EleV Program is the Mastercard Foundation initiative in Canada. EleV partners with Indigenous organizations and groups working alongside Indigenous communities to transform education and employment systems based on the vision and values of Indigenous youth.

Learn more
Artwork, li toneur de la tayr (Michif: land thunder) by Creative Director & Graphic Designer, Jordan Skipper.

Indigenous youth are the fastest-growing demographic in Canada. Investing in Indigenous youth education now and into the future benefits the entire country .

Working in support of self-determination and integrating Indigenous knowledges and cultures, these institutions equip Indigenous young people with the skills they need to thrive.