Photo of Kanonhweratonhtshera G’di-mikwanim (The Welcoming Room) event space and classroom at Queen’s University
“I think it's really important for students to be able to see what healthcare fields are like and experience firsthand what they would be doing in the future if they wish to pursue it.”
— Lily Ingram, Student Coordinator, Queen’s Weeneebayko Summer Program
In June, members of the Canada Programs team visited Kingston, Ontario to attend the Weeneebayko Summer Program—an immersive, week-long experience hosted by Queen's University and the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) for Indigenous youth. This year the participants were from Moose Cree First Nation, Attawapiskat First Nation and Kashechewan First Nation. This unique program is part of EleV’s partnership with Queen's and WAHA, which aims to transform healthcare in Northeastern Ontario by co-developing community-based, culturally grounded health education pathways.
Throughout the week, students participated in simulation labs focused on real-world healthcare scenarios including a live birth scenario and diagnostic settings for different healthcare professions. They also toured Queen's Museum of Human Anatomy, attended evening cultural activities, and spent time at the Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre—a space that quickly became a gathering place.
The summer program is one of several building blocks toward establishing the Queen's-WAHA Health Education Campus in Moosoonee, where the first cohort of in-community learners is expected to begin training in health professions by 2027. Coordinated by Indigenous students currently enrolled at Queen's, the program ensures that youth are supported by peers who understand their lived experiences and can help them envision a future in healthcare without having to leave home.
Why It Matters:
Programs like this empower Indigenous youth to pursue careers in healthcare while staying connected to culture and community
Post-secondary education is demystified when students are able to participate in culturally safe, practical experiences resulting in increased confidence
Long-term Indigenous-led health solutions are strengthened by Northern community members leading and partnering in programs like this one
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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.
