Meet the Cohorts

March 14th, 2025 — With heavy hearts, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and community of our dear and beloved friend, Leona Humchitt.

 Leona’s passing is a profound loss, it leaves us all heartbroken and means a significant loss for the clean energy and climate action spaces. 

A proud member of the Heiltsuk Nation (Bella Bella, BC), Leona was deeply rooted in her community, guided by love, and dedicated to uplifting future generations.

We will miss her deeply. As a 20/20 Catalyst in 2019, she remained an essential part of the ICE community in countless ways—an IODI champion, a mentor, an Advisory Council member, and a cherished friend. Her laughter, wisdom, and contagious optimism will forever remain in our hearts.

Our deepest sympathies go out to Leona’s loved ones—her husband, Tommy, her children, Kristy, Cheryl, Flora, Mercedes, and Thomas, as well as her grandchildren. We also extend our heartfelt condolences to the Heiltsuk Climate Action team, where Leona’s visionary leadership made a great impact. 

You will be deeply missed, Leona. Thank you for the legacy you leave behind and the cherished memories we shared.

TORONTO, ON – November 26, 2024 – Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) is proud to announce the 2024 ICE Gathering, presented in partnership with The Globe and Mail, from November 27 to 29, 2024, at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto.  

The ICE Gathering will bring Indigenous leaders, clean energy experts, government representatives, utilities, and the private sector to discuss ways to accelerate clean energy solutions, economic reconciliation, and net-zero strategies. This event will highlight the critical role of Indigenous leadership in shaping Canada’s energy future. 

“Indigenous communities and businesses have become major proponents and asset holders in the clean energy landscape: almost 20% of Canada’s electricity generation infrastructure is owned or co-owned by Indigenous organizations. As this sector brings economic growth to our communities, net revenue is reinvested into critical programming such as health, education, and social programs,” said James Jenkins, ICE Executive Director. 

Event overview 

Day 1 – Wednesday, November 27: The ICE Gathering will open with a reception featuring Tia Woods, a celebrated Indigenous artist who will set the tone for the event with a cultural and artistic showcase.  

Day 2 – Thursday, November 28: 

This day’s content has been developed in collaboration with the Globe and Mail. Staff reporters and editors will moderate various sessions that will offer a diverse mix of insights and expertise. Attendees can look forward to engaging in discussions and valuable networking opportunities. 

Day 3 – Friday, November 29: The final day will celebrate Indigenous culture and leadership in the energy sector. The ICE team, program participants, and partners will come together to reflect on achievements and the road ahead.  

“The ICE Gathering helps provide an important platform for Indigenous leaders in the clean energy field to come together as a family, make long-lasting connections, and inspire each other to continue the important work of participating in the energy transition,” added Jenkins.  

Indigenous Clean Energy is confident that the ICE Gathering will forge new relationships between our more extensive network and other business fields such as finance, real estate, and other supporting sectors. Grounded in culture and ceremony, the ICE Gathering will also honour the rightsholders of the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit, part of the Anishinaabe Nation, and the traditional hunting grounds of the Haudenosaunee and Wendat peoples, known as Toronto.   

This is the fifth Gathering hosted by Indigenous Clean Energy, bringing together over 500 participants. The event will offer a unique opportunity for Indigenous Peoples and allies to connect, re-energize, and celebrate the impactful work being done in communities to advance clean energy and develop innovative climate solutions. 

Indigenous Clean Energy

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Canadian Climate Institute

Indigenous Clean Energy

by Indigenous Clean Energy

OTTAWA, ON, June 12, 2024 – Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) is excited to announce the first on-site intensive session of its flagship clean energy capacity-building program, 20/20 Catalysts. The program welcomes its seventh cohort, comprised of 19 Indigenous individuals who are driving transformative change within their communities. 

Catalysts (program participants) will gather for one week in Tofino, BC, for an immersive learning experience alongside peers, program coaches, mentors, and ICE staff. This on-site session, from June 16 to 21, will focus on various aspects of clean energy, including community-led energy projects, energy storage, energy efficiency, community energy planning, community engagement, and leadership. Participants will gain fundamental skills to advance clean energy initiatives and maximize economic benefits for their communities. 

The 20/20 Catalysts Program is a capacity-building initiative, led by the most knowledgeable and experienced Indigenous leaders and clean energy practitioners nationwide. This program connects First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Catalysts with a network of mentors and coaching specialists actively involved in clean energy project development, who share their experiences and facilitate hands-on learning sessions.  

“The 20/20 Catalysts Program is a transformative initiative that equips Indigenous leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to spearhead clean energy projects within their communities. The program offers practical and applied learning in clean energy, fostering a hands-on approach to sustainability. With an all-Indigenous cohort this year, each Catalyst is already making strides in their communities, driving forward the transition to clean energy. The ripple effect of this program is profound, as it not only empowers individual participants but also ignites sustainable development, energy independence, and economic growth across Indigenous communities. The impact of the 20/20 Catalysts Program underscores the critical importance of investing in Indigenous-led clean energy initiatives for a brighter, more sustainable future” – Justice Morningstar 

The program aims to support Catalysts in leaving the on-site sessions confident and ready to initiate or advance clean energy projects in their communities. Each year, the program hosts three on-site sessions across the country. Sites are chosen based on their proximity to Indigenous-led clean energy projects, allowing participants to learn from other community experiences and foster an open learning environment. 

This year, the program is heading to Tofino, BC, known for its progressive approach to clean energy and sustainability. The town has invested in various renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and micro-hydro projects, which serve as excellent case studies for the Catalysts. The community’s emphasis on environmental stewardship and innovative energy solutions will provide a comprehensive backdrop for learning. 

For more information about this year’s Catalysts and the program in general visit our website at https://indigenouscleanenergy.com/year_catalysts/2024/.  

by Indigenous Clean Energy

OTTAWA, ON. June 3, 2024 – Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) and the Bringing It Home initiative are excited to announce the opening of applications for the second cohort of the Project Accelerator program.

The program, launched in 2022, aims to support the development of energy-efficient housing projects within Indigenous communities across the country. The goal of these projects is to make long-lasting improvements to housing, now and for future generations, with communities leading the work.

The program, designed to respond to the housing crisis faced by Indigenous communities in Canada, offers a blend of virtual and in-person learning, mentorship, and up to $125,000 in project grants to participants.

Currently, Currently, the program supports 18 participants, known as Project Stewards, from the first cohort, representing 15 Indigenous communities from coast to coast to coast. Over the past year, these Project Stewards have been learning about energy efficiency project development and capacity building to acquire the necessary skills and tools to lead large-scale energy retrofit and high-performance new build projects within their communities.

“It’s beyond exciting to open applications for the second cohort of the Project Accelerator program. The housing impacts we can create through energy efficiency are crucial on multiple levels. We recognize the importance of this work being community-led, and that’s exactly what we are looking to support; to grow community capacity and support participants to determine their own path forward based on their unique needs, culture, and vision. We encourage any Indigenous community to apply and reach out if they have any questions.” Said Corey Cote, Bringing It Home Program Manager 

Applications for the second cohort are now open. First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and organizations committed to improving energy efficiency and housing conditions are encouraged to apply to this 18-month-long program.

The Project Accelerator program will offer participants wrap-around support to cover childcare or other personal needs, enabling their full participation. They will also benefit from one-on-one mentorship and technical support from a network of experts and mentors.

For more information about the Project Accelerator program and to apply, please visit: https://indigenouscleanenergy.com/our-programs/bringing-it-home/project-accelerator/

To hear from program participants, check out the news coverage during the second on-site session in Wakefield, QC, featured on CBC Ottawa Morning, APTN National News, and Canada’s National Observer.

A virtual information session about the program and the application process is also scheduled for Tuesday, June 11 at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. Register here!

by Indigenous Clean Energy

OTTAWA, ON, January 31, 2024 – Program participants from 16 Indigenous communities across Canada will come together in Wakefield, QC, for the Project Accelerator program’s second and final on-site intensive training session.

The Bringing It Home Project Accelerator is a ground-breaking initiative, making a pioneering effort to address housing challenges for Indigenous people through large-scale community-led projects. The program leverages energy efficiency as a powerful tool to promote healthier living conditions, reduce energy costs, and produce more resilient housing options for communities overall.

Corey Cote-Diabo, a member of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation and the Bringing It Home Program Manager, emphasizes the program’s unique and vital role by stating:

“This is a first for Indigenous communities in Canada. For the first time, Indigenous Stewards are being brought together from across the country to receive capacity-building training and project development support to take energy-efficient housing projects forward. These projects are ambitious, with many looking to pursue large-scale deep energy retrofits and high building standards in their communities. There is major potential to make vital improvements to the health, durability, and sustainability of community homes and alleviate key issues such as energy poverty and GHG emissions. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, we’re working together to change the approach to housing now and for future generations.”

From February 4 to 9, Project Stewards (program participants) will dive deep into energy efficiency project development and participate in hands-on learning activities. It promises to be an intensive week filled with invaluable insights from Indigenous and industry mentors and leaders, enabling healthier, more sustainable, affordable, and resilient housing infrastructure through energy efficiency.

The training will conclude with an engaging networking reception, allowing attendees to connect with the entire cohort, learn about Indigenous-led energy efficiency projects, and engage with clean energy and housing experts.

When asked what further support these projects will need for successful completion and to ensure long-term change, Corey says:

“The unfortunate reality is that many Indigenous homes in Canada are unhealthy, unsafe, and energy inefficient. This is unacceptable and must change. This group of Indigenous leaders has come together because they are ready to take action. They have gone through intensive training and are now developing their projects. To implement these projects, they will need new avenues for funding and financing. Conversations with governments and economic partners need to start now because they are essential to reconciliation in Canada and enabling the homes our people deserve.”

The inaugural cohort reception will take place on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at 6 p.m., at the Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa.

For more information about the Bringing It Home Project Accelerator program, visit https://indigenouscleanenergy.com/our-programs/bringing-it-home/project-accelerator/.

To receive updates about ICE initiatives and news, join the ICE Network and follow us on social media (@indigclnenergy).

by Indigenous Clean Energy

OTTAWA, ON, January 19, 2024 — ImaGENation (Imagine-Nation), a national capacity-building and mentorship program, is now accepting applications for their second cohort. Indigenous youth can submit applications until February 19, 2024.

The ImaGENation program creates space for Indigenous youth to imagine a sustainable future for their community and the opportunity to transform that vision into meaningful project-based action. Teams of youth (ages 18-30) from across Canada are selected and enrolled into an 18-month program from April 2024 – September 2025 that provides a culturally embedded ecosystem of support and up to $50,000 in project funding to plan and implement their clean energy project idea.

“ImaGENation is a game-changer for Indigenous youth to feel supported and recognized as the leaders that they are in a clean energy future. This program is unlike any other, being rooted in culture and giving full empowerment to young changemakers to develop clean energy projects that directly benefit their community and people. It is kinship, capacity building, and so much more.” – Aubrey-Anne Laliberte-Pewapisconias, ImaGENation Program Manager

Projects will receive:

• Up to $50,000 in project funding
• Access to ImaGENation Project Advisors and one-on-one mentorship
• Access to our Wrap-Around Support and Elders Engagement Funds
• Access to the ICE Energize 101 Course
• Sponsorship to select in-person gatherings and network opportunities

The ImaGENation program is facilitated in partnership between Indigenous Clean Energy, SevenGen, and Student Energy.

Applications can be submitted here until February 19 at 11:59 p.m. PST.

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

First Nations Clean Energy Network (Australia)

Indigenous Clean Energy

A new transformative 5-day program designed to empower First Nations people to drive First Nations participation in and ownership of clean energy solutions in communities and negotiate partnership, equity and ownership outcomes is being held this week in Cairns, with 30 First Nations leaders attending.

The First Nations Clean Energy Network invited members of Canada’s Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) to Australia to be co-facilitators of the new PowerMakers program and share their deep knowledge and experience about successfully ensuring Indigenous partners in the energy transition.

Karrina Nolan, co-Chair of the First Nations Clean Energy Network, says without First Nations having a stake in clean and renewable energy as genuine partners and participants, Australia’s energy transition won’t happen at the pace and scale required. 

“First Nations people are already identifying renewable energy solutions needed in homes and communities. They want to plan, build and own energy solutions that positively impact and benefit families and communities already suffering the impacts of climate change.

“Settings including rebates and grants have been available for some years across Australia, policy, regulatory and financial barriers remain inhibiting First Nations access to affordable reliable clean energy solutions.

“Many communities are still reliant on diesel, and where there is electricity, suffer disproportionate power disconnections and related health and wellbeing impacts. 

“Concurrently, these same First Nations communities are responding to multiple proponents – from domestic to multinational – wanting to urgently build massive large-scale energy projects on their land.

“The PowerMakers program is essential to assist First Nations groups successfully negotiate with proponents early engagement, ongoing consent, equity partnerships and ownership while also planning for and developing locally based energy solutions to benefit families and communities currently missing out.”

Following a competitive process, 30 First Nations participants from communities across Australia were selected for PowerMakers from over 100 applicants.

The participants will spend five days in an immersive experience learning about renewable energy, community energy planning, advanced energy systems, project ownership and negotiation, and business management.

Chris Henderson, founding executive director of ICE says while Australia is at the starting block, Canada’s Indigenous communities began seeking clean energy sovereignty and the development of community-led projects over 20 years ago. 

“Since then, First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities have become some of the most powerful clean energy change agents in the country, owning or co-owning over 20% of Canada’s clean energy infrastructure projects and thousands of smaller, community-based installations.

“In the last decade alone, this First Nations leadership in Canada has fostered 200 medium to large renewable energy projects which have helped to generate $1.5 billion in Indigenous business and employment contracts.”

Two years ago, Daphne Kay, a member of the Cowessess First Nation, participated in ICE’s capacity-building initiative, known as the 20/20 Catalysts Program. Her involvement in this program aimed to grow her role as a Community Energy Specialist at Cowessess Ventures Ltd., where she supported clean energy project developments in her Nation. 

Daphne has since transitioned to the Global Hub Manager role at ICE where she has been sharing her experiences, expertise and teachings to support Indigenous kin around the world. 

“When I first started working for my Nation, I took the 20/20 Catalysts Program thinking I would be able to further help my people. But what I didn’t realise was that the Catalysts Program was a window to a network of incredible changemakers who collectively work for the betterment of all beings,” says Daphne.

“We don’t consider ourselves stakeholders. We consider ourselves rights-holders. We have rights over this land, meaning we have obligations to steward the land in a sustainable way for the next generations of all creation.

“Unfortunately, Indigenous Peoples around the world experience systemic legacies of colonisation. As we take back our power and create spaces like the PowerMakers Program, we are healing ourselves. We are reconnecting to each other and the land and envisioning how we move forward as a collective.”

PowerMakers aims to address Community, industry and government-identified gaps in First Nations clean energy capacity in Australia, further enabling the federal government’s National Energy Transformation Partnership commitments to be met.

The inaugural capacity-building program for First Nations is made possible by philanthropic donations and a grant from the Clean Energy Council.

It is hoped the program will be delivered annually going forward to support the next generation of First Nations leaders in tackling policy constructs and barriers imposed by regulatory environments and an unreasonable lack of access to capital to progress local, mid- and large-scale clean energy solutions in partnership with industry and government.

Overview of PowerMakers

PowerMakers is a 5-day immersive experience dedicated to providing practical and applied learning in renewable energy, including project ownership and negotiation, community energy planning, business management, and advanced energy systems.

Our goal is to equip First Nations participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources to spearhead clean energy initiatives and make a positive impact both within their communities while also taking First Nations leadership of the clean energy transition in Australia to the next level. 

During this program, participants have the opportunity to engage with industry experts, passionate mentors, and like-minded peers. The curriculum combines theory with real-world applications, enabling participants to become leaders in the clean energy transition and progress clean energy projects successfully. 

Over the five days, we explore community energy landscapes, delve into energy engagement, planning, and the practical steps to bring renewable energy projects to life.

Participants also learn about maximising benefits for community, building strong partnerships, mastering negotiation tools, and mapping out project financing with equity in mind. We also dive into effective lobbying techniques that can make a real impact.

The PowerMakers program provides an opportunity to unite as First Nations people, to combat climate change.

Our ancestral ties to the land and deep understanding of its balance make us acutely aware of the threats posed by climate change. Embracing renewable energy is crucial to preserving our culture, heritage, and environment. By harnessing sustainable energy sources, we can honour our traditions and ensure a resilient future for generations to come.

PowerMakers provides First Nations participants with:

• An in-depth understanding of clean energy technologies, their practical applications, and the Australian energy and policy landscape.
• An understanding of the risks and rewards of ownership of clean energy projects.
• Strategies and tools for effective negotiations, choosing and developing partnerships, and maximising benefits from clean energy projects (including employment strategies and other economic and entrepreneurial opportunities).
• An understanding of project financing and equity structures associated with clean energy projects.
• Strategies for understanding the political landscape and exercising power and influence. 
• Strategies for effective community energy planning and creating an energy vision.

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

First Nations Clean Energy Network (Australia)

Indigenous Clean Energy

First Nations leaders from Australia and Canada are meeting with the Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen on 17th October and Members of Parliament and over 40 clean energy leaders on the 18th to share Canada’s experience and learnings to successfully ensure First Nations partner in Australia’s energy transition.

As demonstrated within Canada, without Indigenous Nations as genuine partners and rights holders, Australia’s clean energy transition won’t happen at the pace and scale required. 

Karrina Nolan, co-Chair of the First Nations Clean Energy Network says this is the right time to reset relationships so we don’t make the mistakes of the past.

“Ensuring First Nations access to affordable reliable clean energy, and opportunities for partnering, equity and ownership of projects, as Canada has done, is fundamental to accelerating Australia’s energy transition.

“Canada, and the US through its Inflation Reduction Act, have already recognised that partnering with First Nations is a sound investment decision that creates additional value.

Australia can learn from Canada’s experience and accelerate equity and other genuine partnerships with First Nations and keep Australia in the global clean energy race by investing in a $100 billion Australian Renewables Industry Package over the next decade to benefit all Australians.

Chris Croker, co-Chair of the First Nations Clean Energy Network says First Nations in Canada have equity in over 200 large-scale clean energy projects across their country, compared to a handful of partnerships in Australia.  

“Government has the opportunity now to do the right thing, using strategic investment, policy levers and strong leadership to create the necessary certainty for First Nations rights holders – and industry – for the collective benefit of the Australian community.

“That includes ensuring early engagement and free prior and informed consent (FPIC) coupled with proper investment to ensure First Nations rights and responsibilities to Country are recognised and energy projects necessary for the clean energy transition can proceed.”

Indigenous Nations in Canada are the second largest clean energy asset owners and partners in the country, with thousands of small to large-scale projects underway and operating. These projects, many supported with the right policy settings and investments by government, have led to profound economic development outcomes, including wealth creation, thousands of new jobs and business opportunities, reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, advanced gender equity, and have materially improved economic stability, cultural revitalisation and much more.

Chris Henderson, Founding Executive Director of Indigenous Clean Energy, the national platform for First Peoples clean energy leadership and participation in Canada, says relationships underpin reconciliation. 

“Governments, industry, and utilities must take time to build meaningful relationships with First Peoples to create an impactful clean energy transition. New, just and fair relationships that catalyse clean energy projects for a better and more sustainably prosperous Australia.

“We have been on a clean energy evolution pathway for the past two decades across Turtle Island, what is known as Canada.

“Month by month, week by week, and day by day, Indigenous people are asserting their rights—forging clean energy project partnerships, essential to combat climate change.

“Indigenous people expect that large- and small-scale renewable energy and energy efficiency projects conform with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and pass the test of Free, Prior and Informed Consent.

“In Canada, we have found that clean energy projects with substantive Indigenous leadership and ownership are also sound business propositions, yielding greater economic, environmental, and social impacts for Indigenous Peoples and Canada at large.”

In addition to one-to-one meetings including with Senator Jenny McAllister, Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, the First Nations Clean Energy Network and Canada’s Indigenous Clean Energy team are teaming up with the Clean Energy Council and Senator Karen Grogan (co-founder of the Parliamentary Friends of Clean Investment group) to hold a special event on 18 October for all Members of Parliament, First Nations leaders, and clean energy industry and government representatives to share learnings.

The panel forum includes speakers: 

• Karrina Nolan, co-chair, Australian First Nations Clean Energy Network 
• Professor Robynne Quiggin, Steering Group member, First Nations Clean Energy Network, Pro-Vice Chancellor of UTS, and member of the Advisory Board to the Net Zero Economy Agency 
• Chris Henderson, Founding Executive Director, Indigenous Clean Energy (Canada)
• Freddie Campbell, Energy and Climate Senior Manager, Indigenous Clean Energy (Canada)
• Daphne Kay, Energy and Climate Manager, Indigenous Clean Energy (Canada)
• Kane Thornton, Chief Executive of the Australian Clean Energy Council 

Clean energy leaders from across the country will gather to celebrate the graduation of the current cohort of the 20/20 Catalysts Program.

By Indigenous Clean Energy

VANCOUVER, BC, July 25, 2023 – Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE), along with the 20/20 Catalysts Program, is proud to host the sixth annual Indigenous Clean Energy Forum on July 28, 2023, on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

The Forum honours the participants’ success in completing the 20/20 Catalysts Program, year after year.

In 2023, an exceptional cohort of 22 participants from Indigenous communities spanning coast to coast to coast will come together to share their remarkable experiences and accomplishments within the Program and the clean energy projects they are working on for their communities and organizations.  

“Indigenous leadership shines a radiant light and is essential to the path towards a sustainable future. Without a shadow of a doubt, their profound wisdom and unwavering resilience will serve as Canada’s compass throughout the clean energy transition. The extraordinary individuals participating in the 20/20 Catalysts Program are a testament to their commitment to forging a more resilient energy future. Their work harmonizes tradition with innovation, propelling us towards a tomorrow brimming with hope and brightness,” said Eryn Stewart, Managing Director of ICE.   

The National Indigenous Clean Energy Forum is a dynamic platform for attendees to engage with and derive valuable knowledge from the current Catalyst participants by listening to their captivating stories, gaining profound insights, and celebrating their exceptional achievements. 

Catalysts will participate in three panels throughout the day to highlight the community projects they are working on.

Panel 1: Wabanaki Rights, Title and Sovereignty in Regional Clean Energy

Panel 2: Rain or Shine: Clean Energy on the West Coast

Panel 3: Arctic Energy Solutions

“This year’s Clean Energy Forum will be our biggest yet. We are ecstatic to welcome many partners from Indigenous communities, industry, and government. We hope attendees take this time to meet old friends, make new connections, and share their passion for the critical role that Indigenous organizations will play in the energy transition,” said ICE Executive Director James Jenkins.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre (6163 University Boulevard Vancouver, BC – V6T 1Z1).

For more information on this event, please see the agenda here.

Stay connected on the ICE Network and our social media platforms to follow the Forum updates.  

The sixth cohort of participants will continue learning fundamental clean energy skills to bring back this knowledge to their communities.

By Indigenous Clean Energy

OTTAWA, ON, June 9, 2023 – The 20/20 Catalysts Program, Indigenous Clean Energy’s flagship capacity-building program, will host the second on-site session (from June 8 to 16) in Saskatoon (Treaty 6 territory of the Cree, Saulteaux, Dene, Dakota, Lakota, Nakota and Métis nations) to continue the learning experience and networking opportunities the program provides for participants. 

“The 20/20 Catalysts Program has been a space for connectivity, encouragement, and knowledge exchange. I look forward to the continued growth of Indigenous-led climate solutions across Turtle Island during our second week in Saskatchewan,” says Serena Mendizabal, 20/20 Catalysts.

During this on-site, Catalysts will engage in learning sessions about moving clean energy projects forward on the ground, their feasibility, permits and approval processes, and how to foster meaningful and fair partnerships. The most knowledgeable clean energy mentors, coaches and practitioners will lead these sessions. 

All 20/20 Catalysts Program’s mentors facilitate learning sessions using various teaching techniques, exposing Catalysts to the breadth and depth of project development and completion, including hands-on learning.

Catalysts, alongside mentors and ICE staff members, will be touring clean energy projects located in the province, including the Cowessess First Nation solar project and the Meadow Lake Tribal Council Bioenergy Centre. These will be remarkable experiences for participants as they will be exposed to successful projects and hear from the people behind them. 

Daphne Kay, a past Catalysts herself, current mentor, and ICE team member, will guide participants on their visit to her community’s solar project.

“How can we hope to move forward if we were never taught what’s possible or how to act on our ideas? The 20/20 Catalysts Program is exactly that, a program dedicated to capacity building and providing a window to a world of possibilities! I am extremely excited to welcome the 2023 Cohort to Cowessess First Nation and hope our community’s stories can help other Nations in their clean energy journeys,” she says. 

“I started where they are now, as a Catalyst, very new to the renewable energy sector. Now that I have a few projects under my belt, I can proudly say I am a mentor, and I want to share the lessons I have learned along the way.”

ICE’s award-winning 20/20 Catalysts Program provides participants (Catalysts) with practical and applied learning about clean energy projects. This unique and interactive program has equipped over 120 Indigenous leaders with tools and resources to develop their skills and maximize the social and economic benefits their communities can gain through clean energy initiatives.

On 13, 2023, at 6:30 p.m., ICE will host a networking reception at Remai Modern, 102 Spadina Crescent East Saskatoon, SK, to learn more about the 20/20 Catalysts Program, meet the current cohort, and hear about Indigenous communities’ impactful work to advance a clean energy transition. Reserve your spot using this link.

Stay connected on the ICE Network and our social media platforms to follow the 20/20 Catalysts’ journeys. 

Applications for the 2024 cohort are now open!

Placements and training opportunities are funded by Natural Resources Canada’s Science and Technology Internship Program—Green Jobs (STIP—Green Jobs)

By Indigenous Clean Energy

OTTAWA, ON, June 6, 2023 – Recognizing the crucial role that young people play in the transition to a sustainable future, Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE), supported by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), is announcing new funding available for job opportunities for Indigenous youth ages 18 to 30 in the clean energy and renewables sector.  

Yesterday, NRCan announced an investment of over $30 million to create green jobs and training opportunities for youth in the natural resources sector, including in energy, forest, mining, earth science, and clean technology. These opportunities are funded by the Science and Technology Internship Program—Green Jobs (STIP-Green Jobs). STIP – Green Jobs provides funding to employers in the natural resources sector across Canada, including in remote and Northern communities, to provide youth with work experience and skills training opportunities that contribute to positive environmental outcomes.

Through the program, NRCan will work with nine third-party delivery organizations, including ICE, to create 960 green jobs and training opportunities for youth nationwide over the next two years.

As a participating organization, ICE will support a minimum of 70 job placements over two years for Indigenous young people through the career training program Generation Power.

Generation Power’s overarching objective is to increase Indigenous youth participation in the energy sector through meaningful employment opportunities, positioning Indigenous leadership as an essential component of Canada’s clean energy transition.

“We are thankful for the partnership with Natural Resources Canada that will help us support our Generation Power program and promote green jobs for Indigenous youth. As we move towards the transition to net zero, the role of Indigenous communities and businesses will increase, and skilled Indigenous youth will be a critical need to managing clean energy projects from conception to construction and through the life of the projects. We appreciate that Natural Resources Canada has identified this need with ICE and supports our goal to advance Indigenous participation in the energy transition further.”– James Jenkins, ICE Executive Director. 

With NRCan’s support, Generation Power has funded 41 internships at 34 employer organizations in the clean energy sector.

The funding provided by NRCan’s program has allowed ICE to cover up to 75% of interns’ salaries to a maximum of $30,000. Generation Power strives to match Indigenous youth with employers based on their interests, qualifications, education, experience, skills, and location.

“The Generation Power program plays a critical role in ensuring the energy transition is equitable and just for Indigenous communities. Indigenous youth are the next generation to lead transformative change, and we are grateful for NRCan’s support in creating barrier-free, meaningful opportunities that carve this path forward. Generation Power offers more than an internship placement; it is a space for deepened connections through peer-to-peer support, mentorship and coaching, networking opportunities to engage with Indigenous clean energy champions, and employment equity training to instill inclusiveness in the workplace.” Says Alexandra Thomson, Director of Youth Programs at ICE.

“Our growing clean industries need talented and well-trained young people working in science and technology. Whether it is building electric vehicles, mapping clean energy sites, or managing our growing smart-grids, the interns and trainees we are supporting today will be the leaders of tomorrow. A net-zero future means many more sustainable jobs, and today’s investment is an important step towards creating them.” – Julie Dabrusin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources and to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change

« Nos industries propres en pleine croissance ont besoin de jeunes talents bien formés dans les domaines des sciences et des technologies. De la construction de véhicules électriques à la cartographie de sites d’énergie propre, en passant par la gestion de réseaux intelligents en pleine expansion, les stagiaires que nous soutenons aujourd’hui seront les leaders de demain. Un avenir carboneutre est synonyme de beaucoup plus d’emplois durables; les investissements d’aujourd’hui sont un important jalon vers la création de ces emplois. » – Julie Dabrusin, Secrétaire parlementaire du ministre des Ressources naturelles et du ministre de l’Environnement et du Changement climatique

Generation Power is currently accepting applications from Indigenous youth who are ready to explore the clean energy field and employers who are eager to welcome young Indigenous leaders into their organization to provide participants with supportive, educational, and meaningful work placements.

For more information about Generation Power, please visit us at www.generationpower.ca