AFOA Canada - Supporting Indigenous communitites achieve financial success

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time meant to reflect on the history, heritage and rich diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada. It is also a time to honour and celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples across the country. For many working with Indigenous communities it serves an additional purpose in acknowledging both large and grass-roots organizations striving to create positive change in their communities and Canada at large. 

AFOA Canada is one such organization and we are honoured share their perspective and program highlights as they work towards supporting communities achieve financial and professional success.

AFOA Canada is the centre for excellence and innovation in Indigenous management, finance, and governance. It is the only organization in Canada that focuses on the capacity development and day-to-day needs of those Indigenous professionals. AFOA Canada is entering its 23rd year as an Indigenous Institution with approximately 1400 members across Canada. It has become a recognized leader in developing certified capacity in Indigenous management, finance, and governance. Throughout history, Indigenous peoples have been excluded from participating in the socio-economic fabric of Canada, and because of this, we have managed poverty and not prosperity. Indigenous communities have capable professionals leading the way into the future, and our peoples are managing their community affairs as they work toward a strong economic and social community agenda. Indigenous peoples are ready for this future, and AFOA Canada is here to help them achieve it.

Since 1999, AFOA Canada has advanced the financial and management skills of Indigenous people through certifications tailored to the needs of Indigenous communities. AFOA Canada has certified more than 1000 Indigenous professionals who are achieving their dreams and helping their communities.

The Certified Programs cover topics essential to Indigenous communities, including Financial Management, Administration, Leadership and Human Resources:

• Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM)
• Certified Aboriginal Professional Administrator (CAPA)
• Certified Indigenous Leadership (CIL)
• Certified Indigenous Human Resources Professional (CIHRP)
• Leading People and Investing to Build Sustainable Communities Executive Education program certificate, in partnership with Harvard Business School

New to the Indigenous Financial Wellness program is a training module for lump sum payments. AFOA Canada also offers a suite of Capacity Development Workshops on topics from ranging human resources to governance and more. 

Watch “We’re Ready!” to learn more about AFOA’s mission to Indigenous people realize their dreams and lead their communities.