As we welcome the summer season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible momentum we’ve built together over the past few months and look ahead to the important work still to come
This spring, the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) was honoured to participate in the 24th Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) in New York City. It was a powerful opportunity to elevate the voices and experiences of urban Indigenous communities on the global stage, continuing our advocacy for recognition, rights, and justice in international spaces.
Significant change has also taken place here at home. The federal election brought a new political landscape, with the appointment of Prime Minister Mark Carney, a new Cabinet, and the release of the 2025 Speech from the Throne These developments present a renewed opportunity to deepen partnerships and drive progress for Indigenous peoples particularly those living in urban areas The NAFC remains ready to work alongside this government to ensure urban Indigenous voices are not only heard, but meaningfully reflected in policy and investment decisions.
We also co-hosted the National Forum on Urban Indigenous Health Governance with the RCAAQ, bringing together over 60 health leaders to advance culturally grounded health care. The resulting Statement for More Inclusive Indigenous Health affirmed the vital role of Friendship Centres in delivering accessible, equitable care for all Indigenous peoples
Looking ahead, we’re excited to welcome many of you for the NAFC’s 54th Annual Meeting and the 35th Annual Youth Forum, which will now be held in Ottawa, Ontario at the Delta Ottawa City Centre The dates will remain the same. This decision was made in light of the ongoing wildfire situation, which continues to create significant uncertainty across several regions, including Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Many individuals remain evacuated, including in Brandon, MB, and while a tentative “send home” date has been identified for early July, the exact timing remains unclear. We are mindful that Friendship Centres and other community organizations are actively involved in emergency response and supporting evacuees. In recognition of this, and following the example of other organizations, the NAFC has made the difficult but necessary decision to relocate our events We do not wish to host a large gathering that could place additional strain on responders, service providers, and impacted communities at this time We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we prioritize safety and community well-being
Thank you for your continued commitment to this movement. Let’s keep moving forward together, in unity and purpose.
Wishing you a safe and meaningful summer
JocelynW.Formsma
35th National Youth Forum
Registration is now open for the NAFC’s 35th National Youth Forum. This year's theme, "Strength in Diversity, Power in Unity, " celebrates the diverse identities and experiences of Indigenous youth and the collective strength that comes from shared experiences and collaboration. We look forward to another year of networking, learning, and connection.
Dates: July 25-26, 2025
Location: Delta Ottawa City Centre
101 Lyon Street North, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1R 5T9 For more information, go to
54th Annual Meeting
Registration is now open for the NAFC’s 54th Annual Meeting. In light of the current wildfire situation, the NAFC has made the decision to relocate our Annual Meeting and Youth Forum to Ottawa at the Delta Ottawa City Centre.
Dates: July 27-29, 2025
Location: Delta Ottawa City Centre 101 Lyon Street North, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1R 5T9
For more information, go to www.nafc.ca/annual-meeting
The NAFC's 3rd Annual Urban Indigenous Summit will take place December 9–11, 2025 at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa, Ontario. This year’s theme is “Paths Forward: Strengthening Urban Indigenous Futures” . This national gathering will bring together leaders, changemakers, and community members to engage in critical dialogue, celebrate innovation, and strengthen the collective vision for urban Indigenous communities across Canada.
As planning continues, we are pleased to invite sponsors to support this important event. By partnering with us, sponsors will play a key role in advancing shared priorities and amplifying the impact of this gathering Our sponsorship package is now available on the NAFC website. Our sponsorship package is now available on the NAFC website here. www.nafc.ca/summit-25
Call for presenters!
We are also issuing a Call for Presenters for the Summit that aligns with the Summit’s theme - Paths Forward: Strengthening Urban Indigenous Futures. We welcome submissions for presentations and workshops focused on urban Indigenous capacity building, knowledge sharing, and action planning Sessions are anticipated to be one hour long, and proposals with two or more presenters on similar themes may be combined into panels.
Click here for more information about the Urban Indigenous Summit!
Submission Requirements:
A topic and description of your presentation (max length: 200 words)
Presenter(s) biography (max length: 100 words)
No more than 2 presenters per submission
Submit materials in MS Word format by 5:00 PM EST on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
All submissions will be thoughtfully reviewed to create a rich, inclusive, and community-driven agenda that reflects the diversity and strength of the urban Indigenous experience
Elevating Urban Indigenous Voices on the World Stage
The National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) proudly attended the 24th Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) at UN Headquarters in New York City from April 21–25, 2025 This year’s gathering marked a milestone, with the NAFC bringing its largestever delegation including members of the NAFC Executive, Indigenous Youth Council (IYC), Provincial/Territorial Associations, and Friendship Centres.
As a vital platform for global Indigenous dialogue, the UNPFII allowed the Friendship Centre Movement (FCM) to spotlight the unique experiences of urban Indigenous peoples in Canada. Two formal statements were delivered, and NAFC President Kelly Benning and BCAAFC President Annette Morgan shared powerful messages on Indigenous women’s rights and the need for sustainable funding for Indigenous-led social services.
The week began with a welcome gathering at the American Indian Community House (AICH), a valued space for urban Indigenous connection in New York. Delegates connected, prepared for the week ahead, and learned about AICH’s longstanding work supporting the health and visibility of the local American Indian community NAFC extends heartfelt thanks to AICH for their warm hospitality
On April 22, the NAFC hosted a well-received side event, "Living UNDRIP: Indigenous Rights in Urban Spaces " The session sparked dynamic conversations on implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in cities and addressing policy gaps in urban contexts
Throughout the week, NAFC delegates engaged with Indigenous leaders, experts, and advocates from around the world, exchanging stories and strategies while strengthening ties across borders.
A highlight for Indigenous youth was participation in the Global Indigenous Youth Caucus (GIYC), a critical forum for amplifying youth voices in international policy This year, Samantha Jack was elected as a North American Focal Point a role that ensures Indigenous youth from Turtle Island are heard, informed, and empowered in global advocacy.
The NAFC remains committed to uplifting urban Indigenous realities in all spaces local, national, and international and looks forward to continuing this important work
NAFC Welcomes Federal Commitments and Looks Ahead to Strengthened Partnerships
The NAFC welcomes the recent developments in federal leadership, including the 2025 Speech from the Throne, the appointment of a new Cabinet, and the election of Prime Minister Mark Carney. These milestones mark an important moment for advancing reconciliation and deepening partnerships with Indigenous peoples particularly in urban settings.
The Speech from the Throne affirmed the Government of Canada’s commitment to working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and outlined several key priorities: upholding constitutional rights, tackling the impacts of climate change, supporting Indigenous languages, and expanding the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program to foster long-term economic prosperity. The NAFC stands ready to support the federal government in delivering on these commitments, and to ensure that the specific needs of urban Indigenous communities are addressed through inclusive, responsive policy
We are encouraged by the appointment of several Ministers to portfolios that directly affect Indigenous peoples including the historic appointment of two Indigenous women to Cabinet. The Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, as Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs, and the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, as Minister of Indigenous Services, bring invaluable lived experience, leadership, and connection to community The Honourable Rebecca Alty’s appointment as Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations also brings a strong Northern voice to this important work These appointments reflect a meaningful shift toward Indigenous representation in government and offer a hopeful path forward for our communities.
As the national voice of over 100 Friendship Centres across the country, the NAFC remains committed to working alongside this new government to strengthen culturally grounded, community-driven services in urban Indigenous communities Friendship Centres are trusted spaces of support, healing, and connection often the first point of contact for over one million urban Indigenous people in Canada.
We look forward to building on existing partnerships, expanding support for Indigenous mental health and wellness, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Friendship Centre Movement Through continued dialogue and collaboration, we can advance shared goals and create lasting change that honours the rights, realities, and aspirations of Indigenous peoples living in urban areas.
NAFC Staff Gather at the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre: Gatineau Point of Service for Spring Staff Retreat
At the start of May, NAFC staff came together for a spring retreat hosted at the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre: Gatineau Point of Service in Gatineau, Quebec. The retreat offered a valuable opportunity for staff to connect in person, strengthen teamwork, and engage in shared learning
Throughout the week, staff participated in a variety of activities that supported both personal and professional development. Highlights included learning the history and teachings of the NAFC Eagle Staff, touring the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre: Gatineau Point of Service, and engaging in a drum-making workshop that grounded the team in cultural connection. Staff also took part in a “Guarding Minds at Work” session focused on mental wellness in the workplace, and spent time on departmental work planning and goal setting
The retreat also featured some fun and team-building moments including an axe-throwing outing at LumberJaxe.
Thank you to the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre: Gatineau Point of Service for welcoming us so warmly
NAFC Board of Directors Meeting
In May, the NAFC Board of Directors convened virtually for a meeting The agenda featured updates from the Executive Committee, Indigenous Youth Council, Finance Committee, and CEO, covering key areas such as NAFC trademark protection, the federal election and new Cabinet, preparations for the upcoming National Youth Forum and Annual Meeting, the Urban Indigenous Summit, and NAFC’s participation at the UNPFII. The Board also finalized its meeting schedule through 2026, setting a clear path for continued collaboration and strategic progress in the months ahead.
NAFC Senate Meeting
This spring, the NAFC Senate joined by President Kelly Benning, CEO Jocelyn Formsma, Office Manager Mel Maracle, and Senior Director Jennifer Rankin gathered for a retreat hosted by Senator Dominique (T8aminik) Rankin at the Kina8at Centre in La Conception, Quebec. The serene setting offered space for meaningful dialogue, reflection, and ceremony. Senators received updates on NAFC priorities and shared insight on the upcoming Youth Forum and Annual Meeting. Grounded in culture and guided by tradition, the retreat reinforced the Senate’s vital role in shaping the direction of the Friendship Centre Movement
Ile à la Crosse Friendship Centre Celebrates Grand Opening of New Building
Congratulations to the Ile à la Crosse Friendship Centre on the grand opening of their new building NAFC CEO Jocelyn W. Formsma and NAFC Treasurer Laurie Bouvier were honoured to attend the celebration alongside community members and staff.
The opening marks an exciting milestone for the Centre, which has a long-standing history of delivering vital programs and services to urban Indigenous people in the region Expanding into a new space reflects the Centre’s continued growth and its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the community. The NAFC is proud to support and celebrate these achievements, which demonstrate the strength and dedication of the Friendship Centre Movement.
We look forward to the positive impact this new space will have on the community in the coming years.
NAFC Program Renewal Campaign
Launched in the Fall, the NAFC’s Program Renewal Campaign continues to push for long-term, stable government funding to ensure Friendship Centres can keep delivering vital, culturallyrelevant programs and services for Urban Indigenous communities from coast to coast.
Building on the momentum of the past several months, the next phase of the campaign will roll out in the coming months. This stage includes a dynamic infographic video, a broadcast advertisement, and a powerful call to action to rally support for the Friendship Centre movement.
We encourage you to continue circulating our campaign materials and key messages to help sustain awareness and drive meaningful support.
To find out more about the campaign, go to nafc ca/support-the-fcm
Elections Canada Partnership
Our partnership with Elections Canada supported efforts to increase awareness and participation in the 2025 federal election, particularly among Indigenous communities Leading up to the April 28th federal election, we launched a dedicated webpage, Your Guide to Voting in the 2025 Federal Election, which provided accessible voting information and shared resources from Elections Canada to support and encourage Indigenous voter engagement.
You can still view the guide here: nafc.ca/resources/voting-in-a-federal-election.
As part of this initiative, we also promoted Election Canada’s Inspire Democracy resources, which offered information tailored specifically for Indigenous electors With the election now concluded, this partnership is wrapping up, and we thank everyone who supported and shared these important materials to help empower Indigenous voices in the electoral process.
2024 Annual Report
The Communications team is currently hard at work on the 2024 Annual Report, which will highlight key milestones, initiatives, and community impacts from the past year. This report is an important reflection of the work we’ve done together and the relationships that continue to guide our journey. We’re looking forward to sharing it with you soon stay tuned!
The NAFC Data team has been active this spring, advancing key initiatives to strengthen data governance, build capacity, and support the self-determination of urban Indigenous communities through information and technology.
Urban
Indigenous
Action Group Meeting
The Data team participated in a panel discussion on data solutions to address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people (MMIWG2S+) at the Urban Indigenous Action Group Meeting, contributing valuable insights to this important dialogue.
Global Indigenous Data Alliance Conference
Senior Director Jennifer Rankin represented NAFC at the Global Indigenous Data Alliance Conference in Canberra, Australia While there, she shared a poster presentation titled “A North Star: Building Data Capacity Within Urban Indigenous Communities.” The presentation showcased how Friendship Centres are leading efforts to harness data to support cultural preservation, service delivery, and self-determined futures.
Data Collection Strategy & Governance
The Data team is finalizing the Data Governance Gathering 2024 Summary Report, which captures priorities and perspectives from Friendship Centres across the country. In collaboration with the Research team, the first version of Engagement Data Standards has also been developed to guide consistent, high-quality data collection from engagement activities
The NAFC Data Collection Strategy was recently presented to Provincial and Territorial Association Executive Directors and the NAFC Board of Directors. This strategy positions the NAFC as a national information leader on urban Indigenous issues.
Bridging Across Canada (BAC)
The BAC initiative continues to grow, enhancing our national database capabilities The 2025–2026 BAC Workplan and the first edition of Supportive Standards are nearing completion. The team remains engaged with BAC sites through ongoing monthly Lead User and Portal User meetings.
Read the 2024 BAC Gathering Report here.
Innovative Tools & Internal Development
To improve data accessibility and efficiency, the team has developed internal web tools including an application that transcribes audio and generates reports, and interactive dashboards to support project management. These tools are now available to staff through dedicated subdomains.
Web Summit Vancouver
The Data team attended the Web Summit in Vancouver this May to stay connected to emerging technologies and promote the NAFC’s Data Strategy and BAC initiative.
First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework
The Data team continues to actively participate in the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework Data Working Group (FNMWCF-DWG) Most recently, they co-chaired a session and presented NAFC’s Data Collection Strategy, furthering collaboration across Indigenous data networks.
The Policy and Research team has been actively advancing initiatives that support the selfdetermination, safety, and wellbeing of urban Indigenous communities. From health governance to climate action and youth-led justice work, here are some of the key developments that the Policy and Research team have been working on.
National Forum on Urban Indigenous Health Governance in Care, Health Services and Healing
From May 28–29, 2025, the NAFC, in partnership with the Regroupement des centres d’amitié autochtones du Québec (RCAAQ), hosted the National Forum on Urban Indigenous Health Governance in Care, Health Services and Healing in Montréal. The Forum convened over 60 health leaders from the Friendship Centre Movement to advance a national framework responding to Indigenous health resolutions passed at the 2024 Annual Meeting
Over two days, delegates engaged in critical discussions about the state of health and social services for urban Indigenous peoples and the persistent inequities they continue to face. Friendship Centres from nine provinces and three territories collectively issued a Statement for More Inclusive Indigenous Health, calling on the Government of Canada to act urgently to address the disparities that affect Indigenous peoples living away from their home communities
The Statement calls for:
Recognition of the distinct health needs of all Indigenous peoples, regardless of residency; Formal acknowledgment of Friendship Centres’ role as trusted, front-line providers of culturally grounded health services in urban communities; Stable, flexible, and long-term federal investment to support the development and expansion of health services within Friendship Centre infrastructures
Urban Indigenous people often encounter systemic barriers in a health care system not designed with their realities in mind. Friendship Centres have stepped up to fill these critical gaps some establishing their own health clinics despite limited funding and official recognition. The call from this Forum was clear: equitable access to culturally safe care is not optional; it is essential.
Thank you to all who participated in the Forum Your knowledge, leadership, and vision are helping to shape a more inclusive, responsive, and just health system for Indigenous peoples living in urban areas across Canada.
A big thank you to Geraldine King from all of us at the NAFC for being the amazing MC at our National Forum on Urban Indigenous Health Governance in Care, Health Services, and Healing. Your wisdom, support, and laughter helped bring everyone together and kept us grounded in the purpose of our work We’re so grateful for everything you brought to the gathering.
Tanya Sirois, Executive Director of the RCAAQ, who spoke about the goals and importance of this forum in shaping healthier futures for our communities. Ron Rice, Executive Director of the Victoria Native Friendship Centre, and Stéphane Laroche, Director of Organizational and Strategic Development of the Val-d’Or Native Friendship Centre, offered inspiring insights into communitydriven models rooted in local realities.
Dr. Roopa Dhatt physician, global health leader, and co-founder of Women in Global Health shared powerful insights on compassionate care practices from around the world. Senator Michèle Audette - her reflections on growing up within the Friendship Centre Movement, the critical role Friendship Centres play in our communities, and her continued support remind us of the strength and resilience at the heart of our work.
2024–2025 Policy Review Underway
Work is ongoing on the 2024–2025 NAFC Policy Review. This effort will identify gaps and opportunities across federal policies and programs impacting urban Indigenous communities and help build a strong policy baseline for future advocacy and program development
Environmental Engagement at the 54th Annual Meeting
Preparations are in progress for a special engagement session with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) at the NAFC’s 54th Annual Meeting in Brandon, MB. The session will gather input from Friendship Centres to inform a long-term research and policy agenda on climate resilience and urban Indigenous environmental priorities
BEACON Project Approved
NAFC’s Bringing Empowerment, Awareness, Culture, and Online Navigation (BEACON) Project has been approved by Public Safety Canada under the National Strategy for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation on the Internet.
Led by the Indigenous Youth Council (IYC), this five-year initiative will deliver:
Interactive workshops and mentorship opportunities
Social media campaigns designed by and for Indigenous youth
The project is expected to launch in summer 2025, and we look forward to supporting youth leadership in digital safety
MMIWG2S+ Implementation Plan –
Coming Soon
The MMIWG2S+ Steering Committee will release its Implementation Plan at this year’s Annual Meeting in Brandon. This follows extensive engagement and a national survey on how the National Action Plan and Calls for Justice are being applied in Friendship Centres The Plan will provide a clear roadmap for program development, policy planning, and advocacy that responds directly to the lived realities of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people in urban settings.
Executive Director Compensation Survey
The Research Department is conducting a survey on Executive Director compensation and benefits across the Friendship Centre Movement. The goal is to establish a comprehensive understanding of compensation practices to inform advocacy for fair and equitable leadership support Please check your inbox for the SurveyMonkey link your participation is essential
NAFC’s Research and Ethics Framework
The NAFC Research Department, in partnership with Cree8ive Advisory, is currently reviewing and finalizing the organization’s Research and Ethics Framework. This foundational document will support ethical, community-based research that centers urban Indigenous voices. Once complete, it will serve as a guiding resource for researchers engaging with Friendship Centres and urban Indigenous populations.
The NAFC Policy and Research Team thanks you for your continued engagement and support. Together, we are advancing policies, programs, and advocacy efforts that reflect and serve the diverse realities of urban Indigenous communities across the country
Strengthening Connections Across Our Network
This spring, the Programs team continued to foster meaningful relationships across the Friendship Centre Movement. In March, Programs Manager, Rufus Jacobs and Senior Programs Coordinator, James Lavallée visited the Manitoba Association of Friendship Centres (MAFC) in Winnipeg, where they connected with local Indigenous organizations and toured the Selkirk Friendship Centre (SFC) At SFC, they were inspired by innovative programs including two vibrant childcare centres and a standout affordable housing initiative an apartment tower offering rent-geared-to-income units that meets critical community needs.
In April, the team traveled north to visit the Northwest Territories/Nunavut Council of Friendship Centres (NTNUCFC) While in Yellowknife, they spent time at the Tree of Peace Friendship Centre and joined the community for a lively Bingo night Their journey continued to the Tłıchǫ Friendship Centre in Behchokǫ, where they heard firsthand about impactful, community-led programming and the unique challenges northern communities face.
At the end of April, Rufus met with the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC) and visited the Victoria Native Friendship Centre Home to over 140 staff and delivering more than 75 programs, the Centre is a powerful example of the scope and impact of urban Indigenous service delivery. A warm thank you to Executive Director Ron Rice for the tour and generous hospitality.
Looking ahead, the NAFC will host an Atlantic Executive Directors Meeting from June 25–26 in Halifax, NS. This gathering will include engagement sessions on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and Indigenous data governance, with a strong focus on regional priorities and collaborative strategies for collective impact
The weekend session included discussion around best youth engagement strategies, youth empowerment, and future event plans for youth.
We would like to extend our sincerest congratulations to the youth from the North who officially formed their own Youth Council! This exciting news sets the stage for stronger youth representation and youth leadership! Congratulations NT/NU Youth Council
35th Annual Youth Forum
In light of the current wildfire situation, the NAFC has made the decision to relocate our Annual Meeting and Youth Forum to Ottawa at the Delta Ottawa City Centre. We are mindful that Friendship Centres and other community organizations are actively involved in emergency response and supporting evacuees We do not wish to host a large gathering that could place additional strain on responders, service providers, and impacted communities at this time. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we prioritize safety and community well-being.
This year’s theme for the 35th Annual Youth Forum “Strength in Diversity, Power in Unity” honours the unique identities, lived experiences, and shared strength of Indigenous youth from across the country
Throughout the Forum, participants will engage in cultural activities, listen to inspiring keynote speakers, take part in meaningful youth-led panels, and participate in the Indigenous Youth Council (IYC) elections.
This year, the available positions on the Council are President and Secretary Youth interested in running are encouraged to submit their Letter of Intent, Letter of Support, and Letter of Credentials by July 20 at 4:00 PM (local time).
We are also accepting nominations for the Nelson Mayer Youth Award, which recognizes outstanding youth leadership within Friendship Centre communities.
If you know a young person making a meaningful impact, we encourage you to submit a nomination through our website
Registration for the Forum is now open and can be accessed through the NAFC website. We look forward to gathering with Indigenous youth from across the country to learn, lead, and celebrate together.
For more information, please visit: www.nafc.ca/youth-forum
Canada Service Corps – The Navigating Horizons: Youth Empowering Indigenous Youth Futures
We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new three-year national initiative: Navigating Horizons: Youth Empowering Indigenous Youth Futures, funded through a $17 million investment from Canada Service Corps
Designed for Urban Indigenous Youth aged 12–30, this program will create meaningful volunteer placement opportunities through Friendship Centres, Provincial/Territorial Associations, and community-based partners.
Rooted in mentorship and reciprocity, Navigating Horizons will empower youth through hands-on experiences, cultural learning, and leadership development Youth will have the opportunity to be mentored while gaining the tools to discover their voice, identity, and purpose.
Stay tuned more updates coming soon!
Indigenous Youth Council Meeting
In late May, the Indigenous Youth Council (IYC) met in Toronto to prepare for the upcoming 35th Annual Youth Forum and review council responsibilities. Members focused on refining their roles, planning forum logistics, and conducting an in-depth review of the Council’s Safety Policy, which they plan to bring forward for feedback at the upcoming Annual Meeting
The meeting also provided space for regional and executive updates, as well as a valuable discussion with GreenShield around potential future collaborations.
We’re also pleased to welcome Kiera Gomuwka as the Interim Alberta Representative welcome to the Council, Kiera!
Apply Now: Dr. Joan Glode Memorial Scholarship
The NAFC is proud to honour the legacy of Dr. Joan Glode through a new youth scholarship, delivered in partnership with Indspire. This one-time annual award of $5,000 will support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis post-secondary students pursuing studies in Education, Social Work, Community Service, or Indigenous Studies.
By recognizing the achievements of Indigenous youth in these fields, the Dr Joan Glode Memorial Scholarship celebrates a lifelong commitment to community, advocacy, and leadership. The application deadline is August 1, 2025 we encourage all eligible students to apply.
Apply through the Indspire website.
If you would like to submit any photos or news articles about your Friendship Centre that we can share with the Friendship Centre Movement, please send them to communications@nafc.ca.
The Friendship Centre Movement has been shaped over a period of 60 years by Indigenous leaders in communities across Canada. These dedicated Indigenous people have greatly contributed to the success and growth of today’s Friendship Centre Movement. To view the stories of Friendship Centre trailblazers, or our Spirits of Friendship, click here. We are honoured to have known them and privileged to have worked with them and to be a part of their legacy.
If you think someone should be added to this list, please send an e-mail to communications@nafc.ca with a short bio, specifically detailing their involvement in the Friendship Centre Movement and any photos you would like included.
