Grant: Other: IYS-Net Phase 2: Indigenous Network

Indigenous youth make up 41% of Canada's Indigenous population and have a vital role in the future of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Many face significant mental health difficulties linked to intergenerational trauma, systemic discrimination and cultural disruption. Indigenous youth also have higher rates of suicide. Despite these challenges, strong connections to culture, community, and land are powerful protective factors that promote well-being. Unfortunately, access to culturally grounded mental health services remains limited due to geographical barriers, insufficient funding and a lack of tailored supports. Our network is addressing these gaps by building a trust-based learning network across Canada. By collaborating with Indigenous youth, Elders, Knowledge Holders, families, and community leaders and being guided by multigenerational teaching, we aim to strengthen culturally relevant, community-driven mental health and wellness services and the use of data (numbers, stories, experiences, cultural teachings, images, etc.) and research to evaluate, promote, and sustain these. Key objectives include strengthening community capacity, developing the next generation of Indigenous and allied leaders, integrating Indigenous knowledge into services, and advancing research rooted in Indigenous values. Our work will help support Indigenous communities and allied networks and organizations to deliver high-quality care, foster sustainable growth, and support continuous improvement. Ultimately, we strive to instill hope, belonging, meaning, and purpose in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth, ensuring their well-being and the vitality of future generations.