August 9, 2026

Honouring Tradition: A project that’s fostering Indigenous youth leadership and cultural continuity

“I knew some things about my culture, but I didn’t always feel confident sharing them. Learning from Elders and Knowledge Keepers […] helped me build a stronger connection to who I am.”

Those words come from one of the students in Terrace Bay, Ontario, who took part in the Honouring Tradition project.

Through authentic cultural experiences led by Elders and Knowledge Keepers, this project ensured Indigenous student leaders were able to strengthen their cultural identities and develop the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skillsets needed to carry Indigenous traditions forward.

Land-based learning, language revitalization, drumming, and traditional teachings were some of the activities that the student leaders were able to take part in. They also collaborated with Elders and Knowledge Keepers on planning a Powwow for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This work, carried out through Roots & Shoots and with funding from our A.P.E. Fund, directly supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 66 by fostering Indigenous youth leadership and cultural continuity.

The same student — the one who said they now felt more connected to who they are — also said: “I am proud of what we accomplished together, and grateful for the opportunity to learn from the Elders who shared their knowledge with us.”

“I want to continue learning my language and culture,” they said, “and to become a role model for younger Indigenous students coming to high school next year.”

As we mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, we also want to celebrate projects like this — projects that support intergenerational learning, Indigenous leadership, cultural continuity, and more — and the individuals who make them possible.

Here at home and through our work across Africa, we’ll keep partnering with — and learning from — Indigenous communities and organizations who are guiding the way forward.

One of our partners, The Outdoor Learning School and Store, has compiled Indigenous resources and learning materials. The resources have been developed by Indigenous authors, educators, and organizations – and you can find them here.