b'OFNYPCFirst Nations Youth in LeadershipAn introduction to youth initiatives across OntarioThe Ontario First Nations The OFNYPCs mission is to engage, empower, support and Young Peoples Council advocate for First Nations Youth from the 133 First Nations communities across the province of Ontario. In order to carry out T he Ontario First Nations Young Peoplesthis mission, the OFNYPC is committed to enhancing communi-Council (OFNYPC) has been fully oper- cation and outreach, increasing knowledge and education, ational and functioning since Novemberproviding additional training and/or professional development 2005; today, it remains the only First Nationsopportunities, enhancing First Nations youth networks, developing Youth Advisory and Advocacy group with endorsementtools and resources that will assist our young people and creating from all 133 First Nations communities in Ontario. Thenew and exciting opportunities for grassroots youth engagement. OFNYPC consists of 12 dedicated First Nations youthAdditionally, the OFNYPC will continue to focus on the representatives, all of whom volunteer their time, energydevelopment of policies, presentations, resolutions and strategies and passion in pursuit of a common goal: to addressaimed at addressing collective regional First Nations youth prior-the issues, concerns and needs of Ontario First Nationsities. We will continue to explore new opportunities for partner-Youth. The OFNYPC is structured in a way that works toship development and continue to meet with key stakeholders that ensure there is fair representation from the diverse range ofshare a mutual interest in creating positive change for Ontario communities and Nations across the region. They receiveFirst Nations Youth. The OFNYPC will remain actively engaged direction from Ontario First Nations Youth and theirin a variety of technical tables, committees and various leadership mandate via Ontario Chiefs-In-Assembly, and they carryforums to ensure the youth voice is considered and incorporated out their work with the support of a Youth Coordinatorinto the development of regional-based approaches. Perhaps most and the regional coordination office known as the Chiefsimportantly, we will also continue to reiterate and reaffirm the of Ontario (COO). critical importance of including grassroots youth in community The Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Councildiscussions and decision-making processes. Our youth are leaders envision a time of reclaiming OUR identity, rebuilding OURin each of our respective communities and Nations, relying upon Nations and redefining OUR future. the guidance and mentorship of those who came before us.OFNYPC representatives attend the Chiefs of Ontario Special Chiefs Assembly in 2019.From left to right: Pierre Debassige, Janine Fogg, Lance Copegog, Richelle Ritchie,Kamryn Whiteye, Randall Crowe, Jayse Mandamin, Connor Martin, Winter Lipscombe.30l I ssue1 2020C hIefs ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazIne'