It is vital that Indigenous changemakers obtain the education and skills they need to be successful in implementing their work and vision. Each Changemaker Fellow will engage in skill-building or education programs during the fellowship. This can range from pursuing formal education or community-based education such as revitalizing cultural-based practices, grant writing, facilitation, community engagement, etc. Applicants will need to submit skills they would like to develop over the course of the fellowship to contribute to their effectiveness as a leader.

Indigenous changemakers take on the pain and struggle of their communities, oftentimes at the expense of caring for themselves. The reality is that their own wellbeing is fundamental to sustaining their leadership and creating impact in the world. Applicants will be asked to submit their personal physical, social, spiritual, and emotional healing and wellbeing plan they would like to invest in during the fellowship.

Mentorship and coaching are fundamental to the development of strong Indigenous leaders, and can lead to increases in goal attainment, wellbeing, and overall leadership effectiveness. Applicants will be required to engage with a mentor and/or coach of their choosing at least four times (once per quarter) during the fellowship. Mentors can range from an elder or spiritual leader from your community to a professional executive coach.

To continue learning, growing, and creating social change, it is essential for Indigenous changemakers to have a strong community and network.  Changemaker Fellows will be required to work towards creating, expanding, and/or strengthening their network(s) and building of community throughout the fellowship.