On International Youth Day, we recognize the next generation of Indigenous leaders – their leadership, their vision, and our commitment to supporting them, alongside trusted and engaged partners.

Voice of the Next Generation

The Next Generation program at FNEE supports an emerging generation of Indigenous leaders, ready to step forward and create meaningful change. In our video series, young Innu, Wendat and Anishinaabe participants from the first cohort share authentically and wholeheartedly their deepest aspirations. A beacon of hope and change, their voices remind us of the importance of empowering our youth to build a future that is fairer, more inclusive and rooted in Indigenous cultures. 

A New Committed Partner: Welcome to CN

We are pleased to welcome CN as a partner of the Next Generation program, alongside our co-creation partners: First Nations Quebec-Labrador Youth Network, Mikana, Puamun Meshkenu, New Paths Foundation and Wapikoni.

”CN is proud to support FNEE’s Next Generation program. This commitment reflects a shared goal of supporting Indigenous youth and contributing to the emergence of a strong, engaged, and well-equipped new generation.”
— Mélanie Allaire, Head of Indigenous Relations, CN

For the HEC Montréal Foundation, this support strengthens a growing network of partners committed to supporting Indigenous youth in their personal, professional and collective development.

”We are delighted by CN’s generous donation to this program, which will allow FNEE to further support young leaders and expand learning opportunities for this next generation.”
— Michel Patry, President and CEO, HEC Montréal Foundation

Did you know
that First Nations youth represent a significant portion of Quebec’s younger population? In 2021, 41% of Indigenous people in Canada were under the age of 25, compared to 27% of the non-Indigenous population, according to the federal report analyzing the 2021 Census. This demographic vitality holds powerful potential for transformation – both within Indigenous communities and across the general population.

The Next Generation Program Returns this Fall

Building on the success of the first edition, the second Next Generation cohort will take place from October 20 to 23 in Gatineau. This immersive training is designed for First Nations young adults aged 18 to 35 who want to strengthen their leadership, gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous and non-Indigenous political structures, and make their voices heard.

About CN

CN powers the economy by safely transporting more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year for its customers. With its nearly 20,000-mile rail network and related transportation services, CN connects Canada’s Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. Midwest and the U.S. Gulf Coast, contributing to sustainable trade and the prosperity of the communities in which it operates since 1919.