About Us

What is the Youth On the Land (YOLO) Community?

The YOLO Community (Youth On the Land Opportunities) is a network of over 300 people across Canada supporting on-the-land/water opportunities for Indigenous youth. Members include those working in stewardship departments, Indigenous Guardian programs, health centres, schools, child/family services, non-profits, and more.

Together, we share resources, stories, challenges, and encouragement, strengthening each other in the shared work of supporting the next generation of leaders.

The YOLO Community is currently coordinated by Nature United, a conservation organization with a long-standing commitment to Indigenous-led stewardship and youth on-the-land opportunities in partnership with Indigenous communities. As the Network grows, our vision is for it to be guided by Indigenous leadership, within an existing or emerging organization.

We hope this website fosters deep connection, collaboration, and support across program! Welcome to the conversation!

Mission

To strengthen and support a growing network of Indigenous-led, land-based programs that reconnect Indigenous youth to Land, culture, community, and themselves while also creating opportunities for all youth to engage in respectful on-the-Land learning that centers Indigenous knowledge systems, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and builds shared responsibility for the future.

Vision

A future where Indigenous youth are deeply connected to their territories, cultures, communities, and selves - and as such are actively involved in the stewardship of lands and waters in their respective communities.

Philosophy

At the heart of the YOLO Community is a belief that youth and Land are central, and that meaningful learning happens through relationships with the Land, with each other, and with the knowledge passed through generations. We believe that Indigenous youth carry strength, wisdom, and leadership, and that reconnecting with territories, cultures, and communities is both a right and a pathway to stewardship and sustainabil. Our philosophy is rooted in Indigenous worldviews, where knowledge is held collectively, learning is holistic and cyclical, and responsibility is shared. We honour the diverse voices of Elders, youth, advocates, and community members, and recognize that strong leadership emerges through listening, reflection, and relational accountability. We welcome all who come in good relations, including non-Indigenous learners and allies, understanding that learning on the Land must always be guided by Indigenous leadership, protocol, and purpose. Together, we walk a path of care, respect, and responsibility, growing a network that uplifts Indigenous youth and nurtures future generations of land stewards and community leaders.

Our Ways of Working

Youth Centred

Recognize Indigenous youth as knowledge holders, leaders, and essential voices in shaping a sustainable future. Their connection to the Land is central to the purpose of YOLO Community Network.

Indigenous Leadership and Protocol

Our work is guided by Indigenous ways of knowing and doing. We uphold relational accountability, respect local protocols, and ensure decisions are guided by holistic and culturally-relevant practices.

Honouring Local Vision

Recognizing that communities hold the deepest understanding of their own needs. It’s essential to follow the energy and momentum already present in a place, offering support that aligns with local strengths rather than imposing external models or solutions.

Regional and Cultural Equity

We strive for balanced representation and inclusivity across regions, Nations, and cultural contexts, recognizing that equity means responding to diverse realities and needs.

Collaboration, Shared Learning, and Capacity Building

We value collective wisdom and support the growth of individuals and communities. Through collaboration and knowledge exchange, we build lasting capacity, strengthen relationships, and support long-term sustainability in land-based work.

Responsiveness and Adaptability

Our work must be dynamic. We remain open to change, new voices, and evolving needs, adjusting our approaches with care and intention.