NACCA had the privilege of working in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada and the BC First Nations Centre of Excellence during their Ottawa tour.  As part of this visit, NACCA proudly hosted a reception on March 25th, welcoming participants of the 2026 BC/Yukon Young Indigenous Leaders Pilot program.

Held at NACCA’s head office on 338 Somerset St. W., the evening brought together an inspiring group of emerging leaders and partners from across the country. The delegation featured exceptional young leaders, including a member of the Indigenous Advisory Council for the Major Projects Office and the Hereditary Chief of the Huu‑ay‑aht First Nation. Representatives from the First Nations Financial Management Board and the First Nations Finance Authority also joined the event, contributing to a memorable evening of connection and collaboration.

The pilot program offers participants a transformational learning experience. During their visit to Ottawa, the delegation met with Indigenous, federal, and international leaders to exchange ideas and build new partnerships. Their journey continues with travel to the Indo‑Pacific region, where they are developing a Global Affairs Canada supported project that reflects their shared vision for Indigenous leadership on the global stage.

We are honoured to have been part of this meaningful initiative celebrating the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

Youth Leaders in Attendance:

BC/YT	Name	Nation
BC	Darwin BIAMONTE	Cheam
BC	Ethan BLACKSTONE	Ka:yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’
YT	Jewel DAVI ES	Carcross/Tagish
BC	Amy LACHANCE	Tsawwassen
YT	Ethan LAVALLEE	Ta’an Kwach’an
BC	Megan LLOYD	Ka:yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’
BC	Kianna LOOTS	Kaska
BC	Javen MARCHANT	Squamish
BC	Charliez MCLAUGHLIN	Kaska
BC	Bayja MORGAN-BANKE	Toquaht
BC	Olivia PETERS	Huu-ay-aht
YT	Mats’asana Mq PRIMOZIC	Champagne and Aishihik
BC	Ravenlyn WILSON	Tsawwassen