This milestone is an indication of the sustained interest in—and the continued commitment to—The First Nations Principles of OCAP®, and an affirmation of FNIGC’s leadership role in the First Nations data sovereignty landscape.

Since its launch in July 2023, thousands of learners from all walks of life have enrolled in The Fundamentals of OCAP® and successfully earned a Statement of Achievement, including those living and working in First Nations communities, as well as provincial and federal government employees, post-secondary students, academics, and non-profit workers. These learners, whose countries of origin range from Canada, the US, and the UK, to Nigeria, The Netherlands, and Bangladesh, all share one thing in common: a better understanding of OCAP® and its applications to First Nations data sovereignty.

“Reaching 10,000 successful course completions is a reflection of the overall quality of the course and of the sustained learner interest in First Nations data sovereignty,” says Kristine Neglia, FNIGC’s Director of Education and Training. “This unprecedented achievement speaks to the increasing demand for learning opportunities that center First Nations perspectives, knowledge, and authority over data.”

In the summer of 2023, FNIGC unveiled a new version of the course that featured a complete redesign, including content updates reflecting the current context of OCAP® and First Nations data sovereignty. It also featured a new interface and look-and-feel that showcases original art by First Nations artists and new narration by First Nations voice actors. Available in English and French, the course is broken down into six modules which can be completed at the learner’s own pace over a six-month period.

Registration for the course is $500 CAD, which may be waived for First Nations learners who apply for financial support through The Fundamentals of OCAP® Sponsorship Program.

“The enduring success of The Fundamentals of OCAP® course demonstrates the commitment that First Nations have to asserting their inherent rights to their own data sovereignty.” says Jonathan Dewar, FNIGC’s Chief Executive Officer. “I am incredibly proud of the work our Education and Training team has done over the many years to get us to this milestone, and we are excited for the next steps that the team has underway”

Supported by a strong foundation in First Nations knowledge systems and perspectives, The Fundamentals of OCAP® online course provides learners with an understanding of the OCAP® principles and how they can be applied to the ownership, control, access and possession of First Nations data. The course supports First Nations in exercising jurisdiction over their data in ways that respect their rights, priorities, and collective well-being.

FNIGC invites you to join the more than 10,000 individuals who have begun their learning journey about OCAP® and First Nations data sovereignty.

To learn more about the course and how to register, visit: https://fnigc.ca/ocap-training/take-the-course/

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Throughout 2025, we advanced First Nations data sovereignty, strengthened key partnerships, and delivered initiatives that empower First Nations communities across the country. 

These milestones were made possible through the dedication of our Board of Directors, the commitment of our staff, and the guidance and trust of the communities we serve. We are grateful for every contribution that helped move this work forward. 

Please note that FNIGC’s offices will be closed from December 22, 2025, to January 5, 2026. 

From all of us at FNIGC, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season and a bright start to 2026. Thank you for your continued support as we work together toward a future grounded in First Nations data sovereignty. 

Happy Holidays. 

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This year, FNIGC will grant four $2,500 bursaries to four First Nation students enrolled full-time in a post-secondary program that focuses on health, social science, or applied science fields, or is studying an issue related to helping First Nations achieve data sovereignty.

Recipients will also receive a complimentary registration in The Fundamentals of OCAP® (a value of $500), and an opportunity to receive a mentorship with FNIGC’s First Nations Data Centre.

The deadline for applications is Friday, November 7, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. EST.

Established in 2011, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded annually to qualifying First Nation students. In the 14 years since, the program has awarded more than $82,000 to a total of 36 First Nation post-secondary students.

To learn more about the FNIGC National Student Bursary, including our eligibility guidelines, what you will need to apply, and a link to the online application form, click here.  

For more information on the bursary application process, contact Eva Keeshig, FNIGC’s Program Officer, Education & Student Bursary, at To read more about past recipients of FNIGC’s bursary program, visit FNIGC National Student Bursary page

A First Nations non-profit organization operating with a special mandate from the Assembly of First Nations, FNIGC envisions that every First Nation will achieve data sovereignty in alignment with its distinct world view.

FNIGC serves the information, research, training, and capacity needs of First Nations communities through its unique data-gathering initiatives, including the First Nations Regional Health Survey, the First Nations Regional Early Childhood, Education, and Employment Survey, and the First Nations Labour and Employment Development survey. FNIGC is committed to improving the health and well-being of First Nations people living and raising their families across the country through the assertion of data sovereignty.

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Reflecting on the six years of the CARE Principles (Collective Benefit, Authority to Control, Responsibility, Ethics) for Indigenous Data Governance, this joint communiqué from GIDA members emphasizes that standards are more than technical tools. 

GIDA calls on institutions, researchers, and standards bodies to uphold and prioritize the standards set by Indigenous Peoples and communities when working with Indigenous data. Honouring Indigenous community standards plays a key role in advancing Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDSov) and Indigenous Data Governance (IDGov). These standards are rooted in the specific knowledge systems, rights, and cultural frameworks of each community. By following locally developed principles and protocols, data practices and the technologies that enable them are more likely to reflect Indigenous values, protect inherent rights, and contribute to self-determined futures. 

This communique aims to: 

• Support local Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDSov) and Indigenous Data Governance (IDGov) initiatives 

• Underscore broader CARE application as a minimum standard for all Indigenous data 

• Reiterate CARE’s original purpose, in response to the FAIR principles, of guiding open data projects involving Indigenous data to uphold Indigenous Peoples’ rights and interests 

These actions reinforce that Indigenous Peoples have long called for implementation of their local, regional, and nation-state IDSov definitions and frameworks, with principles such as OCAP® (Ownership, Control, Access, Possession) predating and informing the creation of the CARE Principles. 

As the document states, “There is no justice in Indigenous data without Indigenous standards.” The communique highlights the importance of respecting Indigenous Peoples’ inherent rights to define, protect, and govern their own data. GIDA urges the global data community to prioritize locally designed IDSov and IDGov models, principles, and guidelines and take meaningful steps in recognizing these standards as legitimate and authoritative. 

The documents list Indigenous governance resources from each of the network countries, as well as references written in the communique. 

To read or download a PDF copy of the communique, please click here.  

To learn more about the CARE Principles and Indigenous Data Governance, visit GIDA’s website https://www.gida-global.org/. 

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The recipients for the 2024 FNIGC Student Bursary are Jorden Hendry, Palmer Spence, April Quill, and Damien Rodriquez, each of whom received a $2,500 monetary prize, a complimentary registration to FNIGC’s The Fundamentals of OCAP®  online course, and a mentorship opportunity with FNIGC’s First Nations Data Centre.

“Pursuing a post-secondary education has never been more challenging for students, as they face rising tuition and expenses, increased costs of living, and greater competition.” said FNIGC CEO Jonathan Dewar, PhD. “By persevering and completing their studies, these students are not only earning a diploma or a degree, they are also positioning themselves to make meaningful contributions to the future for First Nations across Canada and I’m delighted to offer my congratulations on behalf of FNIGC and its Board of Directors. We are honoured to support your academic endeavours and recognize your accomplishments to date.”

FNIGC received a record number of applications from 158 First Nation students, and we would like to acknowledge the dedication and hard work they have put towards their studies.

The FNIGC National Student Bursary program was established in 2011 and has since awarded more than $80,000 to 35 outstanding First Nations post-secondary students. For 2024, four students were selected by a committee established by FNIGC’s Board of Directors.

THE 2024 FNIGC NATIONAL STUDENT BURSARY RECIPIENTS

Jorden Hendry

Jorden Hendry (she/her) is Tsimshian/settler and a member of the Lax Kw’alaams band. Her work is dedicated to promoting the rights and health of Indigenous Peoples by actively working to dismantle Indigenous-specific racism within public health.

Jorden holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Masters of Public Health (MPH) from the University of British Columbia, where she is currently completing her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) which examines health system transformation, focusing on colonial structures and their role in perpetuating racism and health inequities. Her academic work is characterized by a commitment to incorporating anti-racism and Indigenous ways of knowing into multiple levels of governance in the education and health systems.

April Quill

April Quill is a Swampy Cree woman from Sapotaweyak Cree Nation with ties to Wuskwi Sipihk First Nation in Manitoba. Currently a fourth-year Statistics major with a minor in Mathematics at the University of Manitoba, April has tutored for various statistics courses and has also served as a teaching assistant. She is also a math tutor for Indigenous high school students and volunteers for Math Mania, where she engages elementary school children with fun math puzzles.

Beyond mathematics, April is deeply involved in her community and serves as a mentor for the Neechiwaken Peer Mentor Program and as Director of Finance for the University of Manitoba Indigenous Students’ Association. Her contributions have earned her several accolades, including the Nellie McClung Trailblazer Award in 2023 and the Manitoba Indigenous Youth Achievement Award in the Academic Senior category in 2022.

April is currently a research assistant for Dr. Jennifer Protudjer at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, where she applies her statistical skills to allergy studies in children. She has also received the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Indigenous Research Award (2025) and will spend summer 2025 developing new statistical methods in research.

Her future aspirations include pursuing and obtaining a Master’s in Biostatistics and exploring data sovereignty in Indigenous health by using statistics to promote self-determination and improve health outcomes.

Damien Rodriquez

Damien Rodriquez is a proud Moose Cree First Nation member and an intergenerational Indian Residential School Survivor who is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at Dalhousie University with support from the Future Generations Foundation (FG Foundation) bursary. As a single father and a passionate advocate for social justice, Damien is working toward becoming a social worker dedicated to serving Indigenous communities.

Growing up in Nova Scotia, Damien witnessed systemic injustices that fueled his drive to create meaningful change. At Dalhousie he is actively involved in leadership programs and workshops that enhance his skills in advocacy, community engagement, and cultural resilience. He also volunteers with the Native Council of Nova Scotia and the Tribal Boxing Club in Dartmouth NS, where he provides mentorship and resources to Indigenous youth.

Balancing parenthood, part-time work and full-time studies, Damien faces many barriers that impact his ability to fully focus on his education. With support from the FG Foundation, he has overcome the financial challenges and continues his path towards empowering families through culturally informed social work. Damien’s journey reflects strength, purpose, and a deep commitment to his community’s future.

Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/damien-rodriquez-1033a922a/

Instagram: @jaerodriquez902

Palmer Spence

Palmer Spence is a Cree student from Saskatchewan and a recent graduate of the Interactive Design and Technology program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

He grew up in a creative family and has always been drawn to storytelling, visual design and building things that make a difference. His home community of Opaskwayak Cree Nation and cultural background are a strong influence in his work, which includes his culminating project that focuses on designing a language learning app to help young children engage with Indigenous languages in fun and meaningful ways.

Palmer is passionate about user experience (UX), accessibility, and inclusive design. He has maintained a GPA that places him in the upper 4th percentile of his class, has spoken at school events to support and encourage other Indigenous students, and strives to be a positive Indigenous role model through his academic and creative work. Looking ahead, Palmer hopes to keep using design to support culture, creativity, and connection. Outside of school, he enjoys lifting weights, cooking, and experimenting with digital media. He credits his family, instructors, and mentors for helping him grow into the designer and person he is today.

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For 2024, FNIGC will grant four $2,500 bursaries to First Nation students enrolled full-time in a post-secondary program that focuses on health, social science, or applied science fields, or is studying an issue related to helping First Nations achieve data sovereignty. Recipients will also receive a complimentary registration into The Fundamentals of OCAP® (a value of $500).

The deadline for applications is November 29, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. EST.

Established in 2011, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded annually to qualifying First Nation students. In the 13 years since, the program has awarded more than $73,000 to 35 First Nation post-secondary students.

This year, FNIGC will also be offering bursary recipients a mentorship opportunity within FNIGC’s First Nations Data Centre.

To learn more about the FNIGC National Student Bursary, including who is eligible, what you need to apply, and a link to the online application process, click here.  

For more information on the bursary application process, contact Eva Keeshig, Program Officer, Education & Student Bursary, at bursary@fnigc.ca. To read more about past recipients of FNIGC’s bursary program, visit the FNIGC National Student Bursary page.

A First Nations non-profit organization operating with a special mandate from the Assembly of First Nations, FNIGC envisions that every First Nation will achieve data sovereignty in alignment with its distinct world view.

FNIGC serves the information, research, training, and capacity needs of First Nations communities through its unique data-gathering initiatives, including the First Nations Regional Health Survey, the First Nations Regional Early Childhood, Education, and Employment Survey, and the First Nations Labour and Employment Development survey. FNIGC is committed to improving the health and well-being of First Nations people living and raising their families across the country through the assertion of data sovereignty.

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This year’s FNIGC Student Bursary recipients are Elizabeth Hunter, Jessica Chiblow, Kelsa Carmen, and Zach Bishop, each of whom will receive $2,500 and complimentary registration to FNIGC’s The Fundamentals of OCAP® online course.

Since it was first established in 2011, FNIGC’s Student Bursary program has awarded more than $73,000 to 35 First Nations post-secondary students. This year, FNIGC received 64 applications from First Nations post-secondary students from across Canada. The four finalists were selected by a committee established by the FNIGC’s Board of Directors.

“FNIGC believes that education is not only a tool for personal growth but also a catalyst for positive change within First Nations communities, a belief that is underscored by our continued commitment to our Student Bursary program” said FNIGC CEO Jonathan Dewar. “On behalf of FNIGC, I want to commend and congratulate this year’s bursary recipients. We are proud to support your academic progress and look forward to tracking your journey in the years ahead.”

THE 2023 FNIGC STUDENT BURSARY WINNERS

Elizabeth Hunter

Elizabeth (Liz) Hunter is a member of the Stoney Nakoda from Goodstoney First Nation located in Mînî Thînî, Alberta, and works as a research analyst with the Centre for Collaborative Action on Indigenous Health Governance at Simon Fraser University. Simultaneously, she is pursuing an undergraduate degree in Health Sciences with a minor in Indigenous studies.

With more than five years of experience working within Indigenous health organizations (which includes a recent role at the First Nations Health Authority) Liz brings a wealth of expertise to her work. Additionally, she is a certified doula drawing on Indigenous teachings and world views. Liz’s interest spans various areas including exploring sleep, women’s health, sustainability, biodiversity, disability, traditional food systems and Indigenous food sovereignty. She is preparing to begin a Master of Science (MSc) program to further explore Indigenous disability research.

Jessica Chiblow

Jessica Chiblow, from Mississauga First Nation, recently completed her second year in George Brown College’s Construction Engineering Technology program, which she did while juggling her responsibilities as single parent. As a 36-year-old single mother of one, she feels that the FNIGC Student Bursary has significantly lightened her load.  Jessica’s goal of becoming a Project Manager is fueled by a passion for construction and a dedication to sustainable construction industry practices.

Jessica is determined to excel academically and contribute to innovative, community enhancing projects. She wishes to express her sincere appreciation for FNIGC’s investment in her future, which not only alleviates the burden of expenses but also enables her to focus on her education and career aspirations.

Kelsa Carmen

Kelsa Carmen, a proud member of the We Wai Kai Nation (Cape Mudge Band), originates from Vancouver Island. Rooted in her Indigenous heritage and upbringing, her path into healthcare was motivated by a profound sense of duty to address the pressing needs of Indigenous communities. Armed with a Licensed Practical Nursing Diploma from Vancouver Island University, Kelsa is continuing her educational journey as she pursues a Bachelor of Health Science degree through Thompson Rivers University’s open learning program.

Kelsa envisions a future where healthcare delivery embodies a culture of accommodation, inclusivity, and respect. Kelsa aims to forge a healthier, more robust future for Indigenous communities across Vancouver Island and beyond.

Zach Bishop

Zach Bishop, a proud Indigenous student, is currently in his second year of the Commercial Flight and Aviation Leadership program at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. He is a member of Rainy River First Nation and holds a deep passion for aviation, setting his sights on a career in commercial aviation. Despite numerous obstacles and challenges, Zach remains enthusiastic about continuing his studies and flight training. As an Indigenous student, he is committed to advancing Indigenous representation in the aviation industry, aspiring to serve as a role model for future generations. Zach expresses profound gratitude towards his mentors and community for their unwavering support in pursuing his aspirations.

For more information on the bursary application process, email bursary@fnigc.ca.

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Currently the Director General & Vice President, Collections, Research, Exhibitions, and Repatriation at the Canadian Museum of History, Jonathan was previously the Executive Director and then CEO of FNIGC from November 2017 to July 2022.

During his nearly five years at FNIGC, the organization underwent significant growth under a new vision, mission, and core strategic objectives. Jonathan was instrumental in implementing governance and operational renewal, securing permanent and ongoing funding for FNIGC’s national surveys, delivering the First Nations Data Governance Strategy (FNDGS) report, and securing a $51-million dollar investment for Phase One implementation of the Strategy.

Jonathan also navigated FNIGC through the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which time the organization launched a new website, redesigned the FNIGC and OCAP® logos, and began the development of the new The Fundamentals of OCAP® online course.

“On behalf of the FNIGC Board of Directors, I would like to welcome Jonathan back to the organization at an exciting stage in its history” said Leona Star, Chairperson of the FNIGC Board of Directors. “As we prepare to launch a new child and family focused survey and advance to the next phase of the FNDGS, Jonathan’s steady hand and conscientious leadership style is a perfect fit for FNIGC at this time.”

With more than two decades experience in national and regional Indigenous organizations, Jonathan has brought his creative and strategic approach to a number of leading research and education initiatives for the likes of the Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre at Algoma University, the National Aboriginal Healing Foundation, and FNIGC, among others.

“I am honoured to return to FNIGC, whose data sovereignty initiatives I’ve witnessed grow and expand over the past year-and-a-half,” said Jonathan. “I am eager to get back to work on the many important and exciting projects that FNIGC has come to be known for.”

Jonathan is scheduled to start back at FNIGC on January 3, 2024. Until then, Albert Armieri will continue to serve as Acting CEO.

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Relaunched to mark the 25th anniversary of The First Nations Principles of OCAP^®, the course is the result of more than a year of design and teamwork and features important content updates, moving original work from First Nation artists, and inspiring voice-over narration from First Nations actors.

Supported by Algonquin College Corporate Training, The Fundamentals of OCAP® is a unique online learning opportunity designed by First Nations for First Nations, using a welcoming and culturally informed approach to take learners on a journey through the importance of First Nations ownership, control, access, and possession of First Nations data.

This introductory course explores and investigates the OCAP® principles and offers learners the opportunity to see them as part of a larger story. The course is divided into six modules each lasting between 30-50 minutes, plus a course introduction, each featuring interactive elements and knowledge checks.

Upon successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

• describe the principles of OCAP®,
• understand key foundational concepts for OCAP® such as Data Sovereignty and Information Governance,
• understand First Nations collective rights, and the difference between asserting and respecting OCAP®, and
• connect the context and importance of OCAP® to your current work or role.

FNIGC is proud to offer this ground-breaking online course that explores First Nations self-determination, self-governance, and collective rights to data sovereignty through the framework of The First Nations Principles of OCAP®.

To learn more about the new OCAP® course and to find out how to register, go to https://fnigc.ca/ocap-training/take-the-course/

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Established in 2011, and administered by FNIGC’s Education and Training unit, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded each annually to exceptional First Nations students enrolled in college or university and studying in fields related to the advancement of First Nations data sovereignty. Recipients are chosen following a review of applications by a committee established by the FNIGC Board of Directors.

“For more than a decade, FNIGC has placed a priority on our ability to impact the lives of First Nations people in both direct and indirect ways. The FNIGC Student Bursary has been one of the core ways that we have effected direct change, by assisting the next generation in achieving a college or university education,” said Jonathan Plante, FNIGC’s CEO. “On behalf of everyone at FNIGC, congratulations to this year’s four bursary recipients and best of luck in your ongoing studies.”

THE 2022 BURSARY WINNERS

Coralie Niquay

Coralie Niquay is a Quebecker and Atikamekw from the community of Manawan. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Neuroscience in 2021, and completed her master’s degree in Public Health at the University of Montreal in January 2023. Recently, she began her professional career with the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission (FNQLHSSC) as a Public Health Projects Advisor. She wishes to contribute to the well-being and self-determination in health of First Nations peoples.

Kianna Bear Hetherington

Kianna is a proud Wolastoqey woman from the beautiful community of Sitansisk located in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Being of the Wolastoqiyik (“People of the beautiful and bountiful river”), she grew up with a special relationship with the land and all living things in it. A deep spiritual connection to nature and a burning desire to help Indigenous communities thrive encouraged her to complete her final year of a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Natural Resources with a major in Water Resource Management at the University of New Brunswick (UNB). She currently volunteers her time as the Indigenous Representative for her faculty at UNB, focusing on advancing efforts that improve the experiences and opportunities offered to Indigenous students through a culturally safe lens. Kianna’s activism reinforces the beliefs and values that she intends to bring forward in her chosen career path, to be a voice for communities facing injustices caused by environmental racism and to encourage Indigenous youth to use their voices.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiannabh 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiannabh/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069246045331

Tiffany McDougall

Tiffany McDougall is Algonquin from Kitigan-Zibi, Quebec. Tiffany studied at the University of Ottawa and Carleton University. Throughout her career, Tiffany has held various positions in both science and public policy. Tiffany has joined People, Places, Policies and Prospects as a Research Assistant to examine the co-development of First Nations Housing Policy, utilizing the Mi’kmaq two-eyed seeing approach. Tiffany is also completing her master’s in business administration at Cape Breton University. Tiffany was able to advance First Nation priorities as a Policy Advisor to the National Chief with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), support Canada’s top public servants and political professionals through her cabinet experience. She was also able to support communities through her policy development work with the Federal government. Tiffany also served in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Tiffany now lives in Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia, with her three sons and husband.

Since it was first established, FNIGC’s National Student Bursary program has awarded more than $63,000 to 31 First Nations post-secondary students across Canada.

For more information on the bursary application process, email bursary@fnigc.ca.

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