South Island Indigenous Youth Conference Puts Future Leaders at theCentre of Economic Development

(VICTORIA, BC) - The Indigenous Prosperity Centre (IPC), an initiative of the South Island Prosperity Partnership, is proud to host the South Island Indigenous Youth Conference on Economic Development on April 25-26, 2025, at the Songhees Wellness Centre in Victoria, BC. 

Co-designed by an Indigenous Youth Steering Committee, the conference brings youth together with Indigenous knowledge holders, entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders to explore what economic development looks like through an Indigenous lens. 

At the heart of the event is the theme: “Building the Economic State of Our Culture” — a vision created by youth through months of collaborative planning. This guiding phrase reflects the community-driven spirit behind the conference and a collective desire to shape futures rooted in culture, land, and innovation. 

“This isn't just a conference for youth, it was built by them,” says Christina Clarke, Executive Director of IPC. “They told us what matters: hands-on learning, culture-driven futures, and space to be heard. That's what this gathering delivers.” 

“This conference is an opportunity for Indigenous youth to see themselves not just participating in the economy, but shaping it,” Clarke adds. “It's about showing what's possible when we lead with our values and our relationships, and when we trust our young people to lead.” 

The conference will feature a range of youth-centered sessions and experiences, including: ● Workshops led by Indigenous artists, educators, and knowledge holders 

“This conference is really about reflecting back to youth that they are already leading,” says Tarrin Sam, Communications and Engagement Coordinator at IPC. “From the name of the conference to the structure of each day, their ideas and direction have shaped everything. It's been a privilege to support and help amplify their vision.” 

Youth will also take part in a unique session called W̱SÁNEĆ Monopoly — a collaborative, youth-led activity that invites participants to decide: Where should we be investing? What does an Indigenous economy need? This hands-on experience puts youth voices at the centre of economic visioning and priority setting. 

Participants will also explore a vibrant marketplace featuring Indigenous vendors, resources, and cultural demonstrations. From creative expression to economic innovation, the space is designed to reflect the many ways Indigenous youth are already building their futures. 

This conference is a collaborative effort between IPC, First Nations education and support teams, and community partners. It provides Indigenous youth with an opportunity to shape economic futures grounded in self-determination, innovation, and cultural strength. 

As conversations around economic reconciliation grow, this gathering is a reminder: Indigenous youth are not just the future of our economies; they are already leading. We invite community members, organizations, and decision-makers to take notice, engage meaningfully, and support the visions these youth are building. 

Event Details: 

South Island Indigenous Youth Conference on Economic Development 

Media Contact: Tarrin Sam, Communications and Engagement Coordinator, Indigenous Prosperity Centre Email: tarrin.sam@indigenous-prosperity.ca Cell: 250-897-4013 

The Indigenous Prosperity Centre (IPC) is committed to the self-directed economic vision of First Nations and Indigenous Peoples on Southern Vancouver Island and throughout British Columbia. 

IPC is a non-governmental, non-partisan organization, housed within the South Island Prosperity Partnership, a non-profit agency dedicated to fostering a more resilient, inclusive, innovative and sustainable South Island economy.