Pilot: BC/YT Young Indigenous Leaders Exchange Program to the Indo-Pacific region in 2026

Dec. 3, 2025

Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and BC/YT First Nations partners are creating a pilot in 2026 to give young First Nation leaders from BC and the Yukon a transformational experience in the Indo-Pacific that will:

• Build life-long Indigenous to Indigenous and Indigenous to non-Indigenous connections in diplomacy, culture, business, and academia.
• Establish a network between young leaders, and with current and future leadership and influencers.
• Bring knowledge and experiences back to benefit Nations, communities, and businesses now and in the future.

Advisory Circle

The Advisory Circle is composed of six First Nations leaders in BC and the Yukon who have significant experience in international affairs; economic development; national / regional representation and advocacy; government administration; rights and Treaty rights; academia; and/or business.

Who can be nominated to the Pilot?:

BC/YT First Nation members aged 21-30; and

(1) Attending post-secondary education; or
(2) Working in business, in academia, for Nations/communities (including their affiliated entities), or serving on Council; or
(3) Have demonstrated leadership in cultural knowledge and trade or international relations.

Cost to nominators and participants:

• Pilot’s total estimated cost is $700,000.
• Nominators will contribute $20,000 to cover each confirmed participant’s costs, including travel and accommodation.
• Participants will make a nominal contribution ($250).

Sponsorships:

• Sponsorships will cover one-third of Pilot costs. If more funds are obtained, they will be used to defray Nominator’s costs.
• In-kind donations could include meeting space, accommodations, and hospitality.
• GAC’s FY25-26 contribution is confirmed.

Sponsors and nominators with confirmed participants will:

• Be able to suggest projects/questions for the Advisory Circle’s consideration.
• Be invited to meet and brief all participants.
• Receive an invitation to be present for final presentations and a copy of final reports.

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