What are the main concerns of the Aboriginal community today?
RJ: Today, the primary concerns are poverty and the lack of opportunity, tools and support for young Aboriginal people to realize their potential, especially in education. Most are not finishing high school and that’s become a major focus of our foundation. At a time when Canada’s largest challenge is an aging workforce, and when we’re recruiting so much internationally, it seems to me that, since the Aboriginal youth is the fastest growing demographic in Canada, we should be able to put the picture together and provide an opportunity at home for Aboriginal youth. Aboriginal youth are a key part of the solution to Canada’s labour shortage. And I think the needs of Canada and the needs of the Aboriginal community come nicely together. CV: What is the main source of funding for the foundation? RJ: Aside from the Government of Canada, we provide the greatest financial support for Aboriginal youth in postsecondary studies. The funds come from the provincial and federal government, and a gr
