Indigenous Youth Vision Panel at the 2026 EleV Network Gathering. From right to left: Cody Buziak, Honey Constant-Inglis, Leora Badger, Kal Ledoux, Olivia Craggs.
“It takes one person to see your potential and hold you like a little ember.”
— Honey Constant-Inglis, Plains Cree, Sturgeon Lake First Nation
In June, the Mastercard Foundation EleV Program welcomed Indigenous young people, partners, Elders, and staff for a powerful gathering focused on connection, learning, and collective action. Together, participants explored how the EleV Network can continue to advance transformative change in support of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth.
Held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, on Treaty Six Territory and the Homeland of the Métis, the three-day gathering was guided by the theme Harnessing Networks for Change. Through shared dialogue and collaboration, participants examined how relationships, trust, and partnership can accelerate lasting impact for Indigenous youth and communities.
EleV Partners and Mastercard Foundation staff participating in a hoop dancing workshop at Wanuskewin.
The gathering opened at Wanuskewin, where participants spent time on the land, took part in cultural activities, and learned from local Elders and young people. Conversations continued at the University of Saskatchewan, creating space for honest dialogue about youth leadership, accountability, and collaboration. Throughout every session, participants reinforced that relationships are not simply part of the
work. They are the foundation that makes meaningful change possible.
EleV Partners and Mastercard Foundation staff participating in a birch bark workshop at Wanuskewin.
The gathering also highlighted the strength of the EleV Network and what can happen when people come together around a shared purpose. Through shared learning, collective responsibility, and the trust built over time, partners are opening new pathways to meaningful livelihoods for Indigenous youth and communities. When young people are supported to lead, communities define success on their own terms, and networks move with a common purpose, they become powerful catalysts for lasting transformation.
Why It Matters:
Strong relationships create the trust needed for meaningful collaboration and lasting change.
Indigenous youth leadership helps shape solutions that reflect community priorities and aspirations.
Networks built on shared purpose and reciprocity can create greater impact than any one organization working alone.
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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.
