TTC and Council Fire Empower Indigenous Youth Through Jobs and Cultural Connection

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As part of ongoing Truth and Reconciliation efforts in Toronto, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and the Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre are collaborating to create meaningful employment and training opportunities for Indigenous youth. The initiative reflects a growing commitment to reconciliation through action—bridging access to jobs, mentorship, and cultural connection within the city’s workforce. At the Indigenous Legacy Gathering, Jessica Dewitt, TTC’s Indigenous liaison, shared how the organization’s first-ever Reconciliation Action Strategy is helping to build pathways for Indigenous participation in the transit system. Dewitt emphasized that these initiatives go beyond employment—they affirm representation, belonging, and inclusion within public institutions. During the Indigenous Youth Gathering in Regent Park, Brant, Bear Clan from Serpent River, described how summer placements and apprenticeships offered through Council Fire provide youth with hands-on experience and leadership development. Together, the TTC and Council Fire are creating tangible opportunities that honour the spirit of reconciliation—supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth to thrive while staying connected to their culture and community. Through initiatives like these, Toronto continues to move forward on the path of reconciliation, demonstrating how Indigenous-led partnerships can drive meaningful change and inclusion across the city. 

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