The call for applicants for the Indigenous Youth Energy Champion Accelerator (IYECA) is officially closed and the Energy Champions have been selected. 

IYECA is a 6-month educational and creative program designed to support passionate Indigenous youth to launch their career in the energy field. Participants will express their creativity through a community-informed zine, sharing Indigenous energy perspectives. IYECA has been designed by youth for youth, offering an opportunity for passionate people to inspire one another.

Participants, called Energy Champions, can also expect mentorship, courses, certification, and training opportunities to develop their energy skills. Each Energy Champion will receive a $25,000 honorarium to support their work.

Currently, the Energy Champions are getting acquainted with the program, and the Energy InSites team is looking forward to meeting everyone at the kick-off meeting this fall.

The course curriculum has been completely designed with Indigenous youth in mind. It will explore how energy systems shape our homes, nations, and future opportunities. Topics covered will include effective energy management, energy sovereignty, sustainable energy and buildings, balancing renewable and non-renewable energy sources, and careers in energy.

In addition, the curriculum will be shaped by the interests and specialties of the Energy Champions. The team is excited to work together to listen to participant feedback and offer a personal touch to the learning objectives.

As the program progresses, we are looking forward to seeing the Energy Champions express their passion for energy and environment in creative ways while also potentially developing the skills to support long-term energy careers. Keep an eye on CIER’s social media as we celebrate the Energy Champions, their progress, and their final projects, as the team shares stories and works together towards a brighter energy future.