An asset-based approach to economic development in the North
Cover image: Kluane National Park and Reserve, part of the traditional territory of the Southern Tutchone in the North (Photo by: Kalen Emsley) Mining has played a significant role in the Yukon’s economy, providing jobs, supporting communities, and contributing to exports. For decades, it has been a vital part of life in the Yukon for […]
Solidarity Across Sectors: Why Charities Should Stand with Canada Post Workers
Published by MakeWay’s Research and Policy Department  Postal workers play a vital role in our communities and the charitable sector. They help keep people connected and make sure we all have access to essential information and services. As postal workers prepare for a possible strike, those of us in the charitable sector have an opportunity […]
The Next Step: Unique Funding Model for Indigenous Groups Now Fully Independent
We’re celebrating a special milestone for the Right Relations Collaborative (RRC), an Indigenous-led initiative that grew within MakeWay and is now transitioning into a fully independent organization. This transition is not only a testament to the strength of the model and the clarity of its leadership—it’s a powerful expression of self-determination. Being a good home […]
Watershed Reflections: Celebrating Indigenous-led Watershed Security work across ‘British Columbia’
Early this spring, members, partners, and friends of the Indigenous Watersheds Initiative (IWI) gathered to celebrate the leadership of First Nations communities across ‘British Columbia’ who are stewarding and restoring their watersheds. Watershed Reflections celebrated some of the First Nations communities and organizations leading this work and marked the end of IWI’s three-year funding initiative. […]
Self-Determination Through Food: Gaagige Zaagibigaa’s Impact in Northern Ontario
After a thoughtful pause, Gaagige Zaagibigaa returns stronger than ever with its flagship Self-Determined Household Support Program—an inspiring conversation with project director Amber Sandy. Amber is a member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, with Anishinaabe ancestry on her father’s side and German and English ancestry on her mother’s. She grew up in […]
By the North, for the North: NJTI on Reclaiming Narrative Sovereignty with Trainings Rooted in Community
In late 2019, a diverse group of Indigenous and Northern media professionals gathered around veteran Northern journalist Sara Minogue’s kitchen table. The group, including notable figures such as Paul Andrew, Louie Goose, and Marie Wilson, confronted two critical questions: where are the Northerners and Indigenous journalists in our newsrooms? And how do we bring them […]
Dr. Ingrid Waldron’s Unexpected Journey to a Landmark Victory Against Environmental Racism in Canada—and What’s Next
The past decade has been nothing short of extraordinary for Dr. Ingrid Waldron, whose research inspired a Netflix documentary co-produced by Elliot Page and helped bring Canada’s first environmental racism legislation to life. In 2024, she returned to her academic roots and celebrated the publication of her second book.  Dr. Waldron has become a household […]
The Duality of Black History and Futures Month: Grief and Hope, Pain and Progress, History and Future
February is Black History and Futures Month, and this year, we wanted to recognize the full complexity and emotions of this moment in time: the grief and hope, pain and progress, history and future. In this time of uncertainty and a growing need for community solidarity, this month asks us to reflect on and hold […]
Strengthening Support for Indigenous Leaders and Projects on MakeWay’s Shared Platform
When Travis Klemp stepped into the role of Manager of Indigenous Strategy for MakeWay’s Shared Platform in 2023, it might have seemed like a shift from his previous roles. Over the years, Travis has been a policy analyst, editor, creative writer, and community engagement specialist. But for Travis, this transition felt natural—a continuation of his […]
Leadership Transition at MakeWay
December 2, 2024—Today, we share important news about a significant leadership transition at MakeWay. It is with deep gratitude that we announce Joanna Kerr will be stepping down as President and CEO in March 2025, after six years of remarkable leadership. Joanna joined MakeWay in 2019, bringing clarity and strength that have guided our organization […]
