**Province of Ontario News Release**

Ontario Investing in Job Training, Career Opportunities in Northwestern Ontario

Province Supporting Indigenous Economic Development

—Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

Ontario is investing in 13 projects in northwestern Ontario to provide job training for young Indigenous people and help them start their careers.

The support includes funding for:

  • The Majiishkaa Community Organization to deliver the Mink Lake First Nations Youth Employment Program for First Nations youth from Treaty #3. The program enables Indigenous youth to tap into regional economic opportunities through resource management training, employment projects and cooperative education credits. It also teaches leadership and social skills, and it provides pathways to post-secondary education.
  • The Dryden Native Friendship Centre to complete a major renovation of the Friendship Centre’s Indigenous hub. The renovation will provide the centre with the space it needs to expand services, including a ceremonial/traditional medicine room and youth and employment counselling.

In total, 13 Indigenous initiatives across northwestern Ontario are receiving support from the province to boost economic development.

Supporting economic growth for Indigenous communities is one of the many steps on Ontario’s journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government’s commitment to work with Indigenous partners, creating a better future for everyone in the province.

Quick Facts

  • Ontario is investing $500,000 in the Dryden Native Friendship Centre, for the renovation of its Indigenous hub.
  • The province is also investing $246,066 in the Mink Lake First Nations Youth Employment Program to provide training and create employment opportunities for Indigenous youth in Lac La Croix First Nation.

Background Information

Additional Resources

Quotes

“Today’s investment will help expand training, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for Indigenous peoples in Ontario, particularly young people. These grants are part of Ontario’s commitment to work closely with Indigenous partners so they can fully develop the talent and economic potential in their communities. This is an important step in Ontario’s journey of reconciliation.” 
David Zimmer 
Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

 

“The Indigenous Economic Development funding for Majiishkaa Community Organization made it possible to offer education, training and work experience to more than 75 Indigenous youth in Treaty #3 at the Mink Lake Youth Employment Program. This six week holistic program focuses on land-based opportunities in natural resource management in a culturally inclusive environment. The program has become an essential transitional opportunity for youth looking to enter the natural resources sector.”

Sarah Ambroziak 

Mink Lake First Nations Youth Employment Program

 

“My first year, I didn’t know what I was walking into, besides my friend telling me it will be fun. Sure enough, I had the best summer of my life. I met new friends, gained two credits and made my resume look pretty. This program enabled me to move forward with success.”

Lucas Rioux-DePerry

Participant, Mink Lake First Nations Youth Employment Program

“The Dryden Native Friendship Centre creates positive change in the lives of Indigenous people through services and community supports. Our programs promote healthy, independent living and employment opportunities. The Indigenous Community Capital Grants Program will help us to expand our current services, create a designated space for our urban Indigenous youth and provide a large gathering area for community and regional events.”

Sally Ledger

Executive Director, Dryden Native Friendship Centre