March 13-14, 2026 – Vancouver, B.C.
As part of the Commission’s Youth Engagement Action Plan the Commission hosted its first Youth Innovation Gathering in Vancouver on March 13-14, 2026. The gathering brought together Indigenous youth from across Canada to explore how innovation can advance Indigenous language revitalization. Through keynote presentations, expert panels, interactive workshops, and hands-on exercises, youth developed practical skills to transform ideas into community-led language initiatives while building relationships with peers, mentors, and Indigenous innovators.
The gathering opened with a welcome from MC Sunshine Tenasco, followed by a territorial welcome and song from Elder Rebecca Duncan. Through her teachings and song, Elder Duncan grounded participants in gratitude, connection, and respect, setting the tone for two days of learning, collaboration, and innovation.
Commissioner Ronald E. Ignace shared his excitement for attendees to exchange ideas, experiences, and visions for the future of Indigenous languages, emphasizing that, “Youth are the torchbearers of our languages, supported by our Elders and our ancestors.” He spoke about the enduring spirit of innovation within Indigenous cultures, noting that Indigenous Peoples have always been innovators and that Indigenous languages are not only a link to the past, but also a strategic advantage for the future. As he stated, “We’ve protected our languages and refused to let them go. We inherit them and carry them forward in new, innovative ways”. He celebrated the strength and leadership of the generation who have safeguarded, strengthened, and carried Indigenous languages forward, and encouraged youth to build on that legacy by advancing their languages through innovation, creativity, and leadership.
Centred around the themes Imagine, Develop, and Ignite, the gathering encouraged participants to reflect on a simple yet powerful question: “What is an idea, project, or initiative you have always wanted to see in your language?”. From there, participants were supported to think creatively, refine their ideas, seek meaningful feedback, and develop practical strategies for implementation. Throughout the event, speakers demonstrated that innovation is rooted in Indigenous languages, cultures, and communities, reinforcing that the future of language revitalization will be shaped by the leadership, creativity, and vision of Indigenous youth.
Throughout the event, keynote speakers, panelists, and Indigenous innovators inspired youth to explore new possibilities for Indigenous language revitalization. Te Reo Māori speaker and innovator Peter-Lucas Jones challenged participants to “innovate for the revitalization of our languages,” explaining that documenting, protecting, and adapting languages to modern technologies helps ensure they remain living, relevant, and accessible for future generations. Indigenous artists Kiva MH and DJ Kookum shared how creativity, music, and culture can strengthen language and identity, while Inuit entrepreneur Kirt Ejesiak, founder of AingAI Indigenous Languages Labs, spoke about how community needs can inspire innovation through emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. Through presentations, mentorship, and interactive discussions, speakers explored how Indigenous languages can thrive when they are woven into everyday life and encouraged participants to lead the next generation of language innovation.
The gathering created opportunities for connection, mentorship, and shared learning while equipping participants with practical tools to support Indigenous language revitalization in their own communities. Through its Youth Engagement Action Plan, the Commission is creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth to connect, lead, and contribute to the future of Indigenous languages. By investing in the next generation of language champions, the Commission continues to support youth-led approaches that will help Indigenous languages thrive for generations to come.
