Future Chiefs is the Indigenous youth council of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Council of Friendship centres, It is created to bring the voices, ideas, concerns, and aspirations of youth to the forefront of the organization and the communities it serves.
The council provides a space where Indigenous young people can come together, share their perspectives, build leadership skills, and take an active role in shaping the future of their communities. Through collaboration with community leaders, Elders, and the NTNU CFC, the council works to ensure that youth are not only heard, but meaningfully included in decision-making and community development.
We believe that young people are an important part of today’s communities and tomorrow’s future. Future Chiefs is committed to creating opportunities for Indigenous youth to connect, learn, lead, and contribute while strengthening culture, identity, community, and a sense of belonging.
Mission
To empower Indigenous youth to become confident leaders and active contributors to their communities by creating opportunities for inclusion, leadership, cultural connection, learning, and meaningful participation.
Future Chiefs works to:
- Bringing Indigenous youth together to build connections, exchange ideas, and identify priorities that matter to young people.
- Representing Indigenous youth voices within the NWT and Nunavut and ensuring that youth perspectives are considered in relevant discussions and decisions.
- Advocating for Northern Indigenous youth’s priorities by identifying challenges, opportunities, and issues affecting young people and bringing them forward in a constructive way.
- Supporting Northern Indigenous youth leadership by creating opportunities for young people to develop skills, take on responsibilities, and lead initiatives.
- Promoting culture and identity by encouraging youth participation in cultural activities, learning, and the preservation and celebration of heritage.
- Building relationships between youth, Elders, community leaders, organizations, and other partners.
- Creating opportunities for youth to participate in programs, events, training, volunteering, and community development.
- Inspiring the next generation to become engaged, informed, and active members of their communities.
Our Vision
A future where every young Indigenous person has a voice, a place at the table, and the opportunity to help shape their community.