About EleV

The name EleV (ell-uh-VEE) was created in collaboration with Indigenous communities and youth. EleV is a play on the word elevate in English and élève (student) in French. The V evokes a flock of birds flying a long distance, each taking a turn in the lead position. The logo reflects a lesson from nature — that leadership is service, that by helping others we fulfil a greater purpose.

Woman standing close to waters edge

Our Story

The Mastercard Foundation seeks a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper. In collaboration with visionary organizations, the Foundation works to enable young people in Africa and young Indigenous people in Canada to access quality education and meaningful livelihoods aligned with their values and aspirations.

The Foundation first started its work in Africa because it is home to the largest and fastest growing population of young people in the world. A tremendous source of energy, ideas, potential, and prosperity, the success of young people builds stronger countries and a better future for all.

In Canada, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people are the youngest, fastest growing population. As a Canadian organization, the Foundation heard the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and listened to the voices of Indigenous young people themselves.

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Recognizing its responsibility to play a role in reconciliation, the Foundation partnered with Indigenous youth and communities across the country to create the EleV Program.

The EleV Program was launched in September 2017. Built on co-creation, listening, learning, respect, reciprocity, and commitment, EleV supports Indigenous solutions to transform systems of education and employment in service of Indigenous youth. The voices and leadership of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit young people are at the centre of this work.

As part of our collective responsibilities to advance reconciliation and honour Indigenous rights, EleV is built on the strengths of each partner and the priorities of Indigenous youth and Nations, in alignment with self-determination.

Today, with partnerships in all regions of Canada, EleV has the bold goal of transforming education and employment systems in service of Indigenous young people, supporting 100,000 Indigenous youth to complete their education and access meaningful livelihoods by 2030, and drive change in their communities.

We recognize that this can only be achieved by working in relationships of reciprocity and commitment with our partners, Indigenous youth, and communities.

A person from behind in traditional clothing

How We Work with Our Partners – Video Series

Through the EleV Program, the Mastercard Foundation works with Indigenous partners to transform education and employment in service of Indigenous youth, supporting 100,000 Indigenous young people to achieve post-secondary and transition into meaningful work by 2030. One of the key lessons the Foundation is taking to governments, policy makers, and the public is that we support success for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit by getting behind Indigenous innovation.

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