GDI is a Saskatchewan-based educational, employment and cultural institute serving Métis across the province
Oct 13, 2026
Posted in: Press Release, Uncategorized
The Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI) is proud to partner with the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) and the Mastercard Foundation in supporting the next generation of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leaders through the new Mastercard Foundation Fellows Program.
Earlier this month, SIIT and GDI hosted the inaugural cohort of 25 Mastercard Foundation Fellows in Saskatoon, marking the beginning of their two-year leadership journey. With a commitment of CAD $130 million over the next decade, the program will support and resource young Indigenous leaders from across Canada to strengthen well-being and foster prosperity for their Peoples, communities, and across sectors for generations to come.
The program supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth who are already demonstrating leadership in their communities and sectors. Through mentorship, cultural learning, and training, Fellows will shape their own leadership paths while pursuing goals that matter to them and their communities. Participants will also have access to up to CAD $50,000 each to support the goals they set.
“This inaugural group of Fellows represents the strength, vision, and potential of Indigenous youth from across Canada. We are honoured to walk alongside them on their leadership journeys and look forward to the impact they will make in their communities and beyond,” said Brett Vandale, CEO of the Gabriel Dumont Institute.
The Mastercard Foundation Fellows Program builds on SIIT and GDI’s experience supporting Indigenous learners and leaders, including through the former oẏateki Partnership. It extends that work beyond education and employment by investing in the continued growth and development of Indigenous leaders.
Over the next decade, the program will support more than 1,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth, creating a growing network of leaders equipped to advance lasting social and economic change within their communities in Canada and internationally. As an inaugural partner, GDI is honoured to be part of this long-term investment in Indigenous youth leadership and the opportunities it will create for future generations.
GDI is a Saskatchewan-based educational, employment and cultural institute serving Métis across the province
