The Tsilhqot’in National Government launched a first of it’s kind International Youth Ambassador Program.
It provides the opportunity to develop proficiency in international Indigenous human rights standards and how to participate effectively in advocacy at the United Nations and other multilateral bodies.
The TNG said in a release that this week six youth are in New York City beginning their two-week journey of participation at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
“Our youth are our future.” Chief Joe Alphonse stated, “The connections and work that we do internationally has a huge impact on the direction of Indigenous rights in Canada and around the world. Having a program like this one allows us to teach and mentor the next generation of Tsilhqot’in leaders.”
Alphonse said the youth on this trip have all been selected for their strengths and it’s going to be a powerful few weeks in New York for these six youth.
The TNG said with funding from Fulbright for this program the youth will be empowered to understand and apply the human rights of Indigenous Peoples and to use their Tsilhqot’in teachings and traditions to benefit their communities, Canada, and other Indigenous Peoples at an international level.
“One day I plan to be a leader in my community and Nation.” Tsilhqot’in Youth Ambassador Xeni Lulua said, “Gaining the knowledge and experience through this program will allow me to do this in a good way. I want to show our youth that they are heard and important, that they can do anything they put their minds to.”