First Indigenous Strategic Initiative (ISI) Fund Showcase

On November 12, 2025, UBC hosted its first Indigenous Strategic Initiative (ISI) Fund Showcase.  

ISI Fund Project Teams, including Staff, Faculty, Students, and Community Partners, along with Senior Leaders and Indigenous Strategic Plan Guiding Network Members, gathered together on the Point Grey Campus for day full of connection, dialogue, and inspiration.  

The day began with a Musqueam welcome generously provided by Larry Grant. UBC’s President Bacon as well as Gage Averill, Provost VP Academic, and Lesley Cormack, Principal and Deputy Vice Chancellor offered opening remarks. Remarks highlighted the progress made to-date in implementing UBC’s Indigenous Strategic Plan (ISP) and Truth and Reconciliation Commitments, recognized the importance of the ISI fund and the incredible work being done by ISI Fund Project Teams, and called for continued, collective, commitment to reconciliation and the advancement of Indigenous rights.  

Attendees then gathered for a moderated plenary panel comprised of ISI Fund Project Holders representing staff, student, and faculty members, UBC Point Grey and UBC Okanagan affiliations, and from a variety of units.  

Plenary panelists engaged in thoughtful discussions on inspirations, opportunities and challenges faced within their ISI Fund projects. They also offered their own perspective on collective strategies and considerations as we continue to advance the ISP and Truth and Reconciliation Commitments.  

In the afternoon, attendees joined two breakout sessions supported by three moderated breakout panels comprised of ISI Fund Project Holders whose projects have completed. Sessions were designed to deepen exploration of common themes relevant to an ISI Fund project’s lifecycle such as Idea to Impact: How to Start”, “Building and Maintaining Relationships,” “Overcoming Barriers”, “Evaluation and Monitoring”, “Communicating Impact” and “Looking Forward.” 

These breakout sessions provided space for panelists to share insights specific to the identified themes. Sessions also offered a platform for attendees to engage in discussions with the panelists, and each other, on practical applications, commonalities in experiences, and future opportunities. 

The day concluded with a lively reception where attendees networked and browsed 26 project posters submitted by ISI Fund Project Teams. The reception also included an incredible performance by Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolfpack) and delicious foods provided by Salishan Catering.   

As we reflect back on this amazing day, the Office of Indigenous Strategic Initiatives extends our deepest gratitude to all speakers, panelists, moderators, and participants whose contributions made the day a success. The conversations and connections sparked throughout the program underscored commitments shared by many to advancing Indigenous rights and reconciliation at UBC and beyond.    

ISI Showcase Posters