Alessia De Salis
Youth Engagement and Good Practices Advisor
Founded by First Nations for the benefit of their youth in 2010, the New Pathways Foundation works for the future and the well-being of First Nations youth in Quebec. Its mission is to help young people develop their full potential and confidence in a better future through a strong identity.
Whether on or off the community, the New Pathways Foundation creates positive hands-on experiences that reflect First Nations youth.
The New Pathways Foundation was established in 2010 by the FNQLHSSC with the support of three founding members: Andrew Delisle, Aurélien Gill, and John Martin.
This entity serving First Nations stems from a regional strategy driven by First Nations Chiefs to fight against poverty and social exclusion.
The Foundation is self-governing and managed by a board of directors, all representatives of First Nations communities and organizations.
Confident and engaged First Nations youth, building a brighter future through strong cultural and identity development.
Engage, support, and connect First Nations youth in Quebec by offering a journey of experiences that fosters their cultural, individual, and collective well-being
The Foundation raises funds to create initiatives that will allow First Nations youth to enjoy positive experiences. It can even contribute to the development of new services and structuring projects, as needed.
Reciprocity, cultural valorization, social justice and respect.
"One of our biggest problems is our dependence on health and employment. To overcome these challenges, we need to develop a strong identity and self-esteem in our youth based on their culture and roots. To succeed despite all the challenges they face, our youth must believe in themselves, understand who they are and what that means. Our priorities have been set with this goal of building strong individuals."
The founders behind the New Pathways Foundation.
English version to come.
"We would like our children to carry on our culture and traditions. That's what they want too. We know it and we can see it. But how do you want them to develop this wealth if their daily reality is poverty? We must focus on the real problems: poverty and exclusion. The need is urgent and the time to act is now."
"I have spent my life defending the rights of First Nations. I have had many victories. I am proud of them. But as long as our children grow up in poverty, my victories will be half victories. There is still a lot to do. We have to roll up our sleeves and keep working."