May 15, 2024
Manitoba Government Sponsors Youth Participation at Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show
– – –$25,000 Investment will Support Vision Quest to Empower and Engage Indigenous Youth: Kinew
The Manitoba government is providing $25,000 to sponsor up to 120 youth to participate in the 2024 Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show, Premier Wab Kinew, minister responsible for Indigenous reconciliation, announced today.
“Our government is focused on helping young Manitobans get into the workforce through training opportunities and good jobs,” said Kinew. “The Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show is an opportunity for youth in Manitoba to learn first-hand about excellence in Indigenous business in our province.”
The grant will support youth participation at the conference and invest in Indigenous economic growth and development in the province, in alignment with commitments made in the 2024 throne speech to support Indigenous economic development initiatives, the premier said.
Since 1997, the Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show has brought together innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders to promote and celebrate Indigenous business, community and economic development. The event attracts about 600 delegates every year including a large contingent of youth participants.
“We want to give everyone a chance to come and connect with Indigenous businesses, post-secondary education and training opportunities, and other non-profit or supporting services,” says Carol Johnston, chair, Vision Quest board of directors. “There are many opportunities to make new connections, be inspired, learn new ways of doing what you’d like to do. You might even discover a new path for your future.”
This year’s event takes place May 15 to 16 at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg and includes interactive workshops, a youth program, a free public trade show and a closing banquet with entertainment, cultural and award presentations. The event will include over 100 trade show exhibitors, an elder’s corner and keynote presentations from Lisa Meeches, executive director of the Manito Ahbee Festival, and Jordin Tootoo, founder of the Team Tootoo Foundation.
For more information on the 2024 Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show, visit: https://vqconference.com/.
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