Why Indigenous youth leadership matters: Learning from the land, learning from each other
- See Different
- May 20
- 4 min read
Updated: May 21
Indigenous History Month is a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the deep knowledge, resilience, and leadership of Indigenous Peoples. It is also a time to look forward and think about how we are supporting the next generation.
Indigenous Peoples are the fastest growing, and youngest, population in Canada (around 28% were under the age of 25 as of 2021). While Indigenous youth experience social and economic challenges as a result of displacement, colonization, and historic underfunding, there are dozens of community leaders and groups walking alongside Indigenous youth to support them in reclaiming space, leading boldly, and building the futures they imagine.
That is why we are spotlighting three organizations doing that work:
Let’s start by understanding the context Indigenous youth are working within – and why their leadership matters now more than ever.
THE IMPORTANCE OF WORKING WITH INDIGENOUS YOUTH
Indigenous youth are leaders, knowledge holders, community builders, and change-makers. Across every corner of Turtle Island, they carry stories, languages, and futures full of promise. But while they continue to rise, they are also navigating the impacts of systems that have historically excluded, ignored, and harmed them.
Here’s the reality:
Indigenous youth grow up in communities deeply shaped by colonial policies, historical displacement, and ongoing underfunding in areas like education, health, and infrastructure. This context has created real disparities in things like graduation rates, access to services, and mental health outcomes.
But the numbers don’t tell the whole story.
They don’t capture the strength it takes to show up every day in classrooms where your history isn’t taught. They don’t show the leadership it takes to speak out, organize, or build something new in your community. They certainly don’t reflect the beauty and complexity of Indigenous identities, or the power of culture, language, and kinship as sources of wellness.
That’s why the work of community-led organizations matters so much. Because they don’t just support Indigenous youth – they work with them, creating space to lead, to heal, and to build futures grounded in identity and purpose.
3 ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORTING INDIGENOUS YOUTH LEADERSHIP
The Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance uplifts Two-Spirit, Indigiqueer, and LGBTQIA+ people across Wabanaki territory – bringing culture, connection, and advocacy to the heart of their work. (Read about the Wabanaki (Waponahki) Confederacy here.)
What they do: W2SA is a regional organization that builds community through cultural events, gatherings, education, and leadership development, while also advising organizations and governments on Two-Spirit inclusion.
How they do it: Through community-based research, regional events, and intergenerational knowledge-sharing, W2SA creates safer, affirming spaces for Two-Spirit youth to be seen, heard, and supported.
Why it matters: Inclusion isn’t a side issue – it’s central. W2SA reminds us that when all Indigenous youth, including Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer youth, are supported in their full identities, we move closer to justice, healing, and true community strength.
The Howl Experience brings Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth aged 14–30 together into immersive, land-based journeys of growth, reflection, and connection – with themselves, their communities, and the land. Through experiences like these, Howl brings youth together to build mutual respect, deep understanding, and a future that’s more connected and more just – for everyone.
What they do: Howl creates experiential learning programs across the Rockies, Yukon, and Maritimes, where youth explore career pathways, leadership, and cultural identity through land-based experiences.
How they do it: With a focus on community building and experiential education, Howl blends outdoor learning, mentorship, and cultural teachings into powerful programs that meet youth where they are – and support them in discovering who they want to be.
Why it matters: Education doesn’t only happen in classrooms. Howl recognizes that for many Indigenous youth, learning on the land – with Elders, mentors, and peers – can reconnect them to culture, build confidence, and open doors to new opportunities.And by bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth together, Howl sparks the understanding and solidarity needed to build a more just future for all.
Indigenous Youth Roots (IYR) is a national, youth-led charity that supports Indigenous youth to lead and thrive in their communities. They collaborate with communities to provide programs, grants and opportunities that are grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and being and designed to strengthen and amplify the voices of Indigenous youth and to help bring their visions to life.
What they do: IYR runs programs like the Creation Community Grants, Indigenous Youth Policy School, and Culture & Wellness programming. These programs offer tools, funding, and support for youth-led projects, leadership development, and cultural revitalization.
How they do it: By offering accessible opportunities – no degree or professional background required – Indigenous Youth Roots meets youth where they’re at. They provide mentorship, resources, and a platform for Indigenous youth to grow their skills and lead change in ways that are rooted in their own values and cultures.
Why it matters: IYR doesn’t just help youth respond to systemic challenges – they invest in the brilliance that’s already there. Their work shows that when Indigenous youth have the space and support to lead, communities become stronger, more vibrant, and more just.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
No matter your background, age, or experience – there’s a place for you in this work!
Learn more. Start by listening to Indigenous youth voices and learning about the work these organizations do. Their websites are full of stories, toolkits, and ideas.
Volunteer or donate. These programs thrive with community support. Reach out to W2SA, Howl, or IYR to learn how you can give your time or resources.
Start something local. Talk to Elders, mentors, or peers in your community. If you see a gap, maybe you’re the one to fill it – with the right support.
Share opportunities. If you hear about a grant, leadership program, or cultural gathering – pass it on. You never know whose spark you might help ignite.
At See Different, we believe youth-led change is one of the most powerful forces for equity and reconciliation. Whether you're supporting Indigenous youth programs or helping to build inclusive communities through your own actions, you’re part of a growing movement. Keep learning. Keep showing up. The future we’re building belongs to all of us.
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