pipon âtayohkanak by BuffaloHyde Creative

"As the seasons change from the final harvest of autumn to the cold stillness of Winter (pipon), the natural landscape adapts for the season of rest. The blanket of stillness the snow provides, and the bare plant coverage provides the perfect stage for the legends (âtayohkanak), stories, and memories of the past to be shared."

As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on a year of listening, shared learning, bold co-creation, and meaningful impact alongside EleV Partners, Indigenous youth, and communities across Canada. In September, the Mastercard Foundation announced $235 million in funding to 30 post-secondary institutions and national Indigenous-led organizations in recognition of their achievements and impact in education for Indigenous youth. This funding will enable these institutions to strengthen and scale successful programs, supporting thousands of Indigenous youth over the next decade.

Throughout the year, new EleV partnerships and programs took root and began creating change. The University of British Columbia introduced Canada’s first Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship degree, a groundbreaking program that weaves together Indigenous knowledge, ecological sciences, governance, law, and business management. Carleton University launched a new Certificate in Journalism in Indigenous Communities, an innovative program that provides Indigenous youth with the skills to build careers in media while remaining connected to community. And this summer, Innu Nation and the Students on Ice Foundation completed their third annual Innu Uinipekᵘ (Ocean) Expedition, where Innu youth, Elders, and Guardians, researchers, and educators, travelled from Sheshatshiu through Lake Melville and the Labrador Sea, exploring marine ecosystems within Innu managed lands and waters.

Together, these milestones showcase what is possible when solutions are guided by the visions, values, and aspirations of Indigenous youth and communities.

Why It Matters:

• Indigenous youth and communities are driving meaningful change in post-secondary education, health, climate and environment, economic development, STEAM, and more.

• By transforming education and employment systems, EleV Partners are creating new pathways to meaningful livelihoods rooted in community and culture. 

• Through innovation and leadership, they are building solutions that strengthen Indigenous Peoples self-determination and create opportunities for generations to come.

Closing the Year with Gratitude

From all of us at the Mastercard Foundation, we wish you a peaceful Winter Solstice and a holiday season filled with warmth, joy, and love.

Stay Connected & Share the Journey

About the Mastercard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation is a Canadian Foundation and one of the world's largest foundations, with a mission to advance education and financial inclusion. It works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. The Foundation is an independent organization and separate from the company. Its policies, operations and programs are determined by the Foundation's Board of Directors and leadership. For more information please visit mastercardfdn.org.