Whistler, B.C. – February 28, 2017

MP Pam Goldsmith-Jones announces $242,000 in federal funding for the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre’s (SLCC) Indigenous Youth Ambassador Program (IYA) for 2018.

Beginning in September 2017, twenty students will gain necessary skills through the IYA business experience program. The SLCC embodies the spirit of partnership between two First Nations and Whistler to preserve, grow and share traditional culture based on sharing indigenous cultural knowledge to inspire understanding and respect among all people.

The Youth Employment Strategy is the Government of Canada’s commitment to help youth between the ages of 15 and 30 make a successful transition to the workplace by gaining the skills, job experience and abilities they need to be competitive today.

Quotes

“The Squamish Lil’wat Culture Centre’s project gives indigenous youth the opportunity to build their skills through business and culture, toward successful careers, adding to the strength of our economy and the diversity of our culture. It is inspiring to see the SLCC realize its potential through the promise of young people.”

– Pam Goldsmith-Jones, Member of Parliament, West Vancouver – Sunshine Coast – Sea to Sky Country

“The Indigenous Youth program (IYA) is made possible by the funding and support provided by our Federal Government of Canada, and specifically the Youth Employment Strategy. The funds received from YES, enables the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to reach organizational goals and objectives to enhance the lives of our First Nations youth throughout our region. The overall goal of this program is to encourage our youth to apply the work ethic learned throughout their time at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, and utilize these skills in mainstream work environments.”

– Brady Smith, Executive Director, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

“Giving youth a strong start through this type of project will ensure that the next generation of capable workers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, innovators and tradespeople achieve success and grow our economy.”
– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour

Please note that Indigenous Youth Ambassador (IYA) program replaces the former name of the Aboriginal Youth Ambassador (AYA) program.