Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister announces new International Aboriginal Youth Internships (IAYI) initiative!!!

Ottawa, Ontario —Today, as part of CIDA’s International Development Week, the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, introduced a new opportunity for Aboriginal youth from across Canada to participate in international development through the new International Aboriginal Youth Internships (IAYI) initiative.

“The new International Aboriginal Youth Internships initiative is an exciting, new initiative that will bring a new experience to Canada’s Aboriginal youth,” said Minister Oda. “Their unique perspective and heritage will enhance our work in developing countries and enrich their opportunities to contribute to Canada’s efforts to bring a better life to those living in poverty around the world. I firmly believe that our government’s outreach to the Aboriginal youth in Canada in this way will open new doors in their futures.”

Through the IAYI initiative, each year 140 Canadian Aboriginal youth will have the opportunity to work in developing countries on Canadian-supported development projects with recognized organizations. This initiative will be supported with $10.5 million over five years.

In developing the initiative, CIDA consulted with national aboriginal organizations, including the Assembly of First Nations, the Native Women’s Association of Canada, and the Métis National Council, as well as with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Canadian Heritage.

The internships will be implemented by qualified Canadian organizations selected under CIDA’s new Global Citizens Program. Canadian organizations are invited to apply by submitting a proposal before April 7, 2011.

Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Justin Broekema
Press Secretary
819-953-6238
or
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Media Relations Office
819-953-6534
media@acdi-cida.gc.ca