Some seeds do more than grow forests. Some grow confidence, opportunity, and a stronger future. That is why we are excited to support the Building Capacity Together (BCT) program and invite your organization to help us get it off the ground.
The Building Capacity Together program is an initiative that aims to help Indigenous youth access meaningful, hands-on learning experiences within their own communities. Students can earn credits that help support their transition into Applied Environmental Sciences at Lakeland College.
The BCT program was thoughtfully developed by WestWillow Environmental Inc., an environmental firm deeply committed to respectful, culturally grounded relationships and meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities, industry, and educational institutions.
With support from Project Forest, Frog Lake First Nation, Onion Lake Cree Nation, and Lakeland College, this is a program rooted in something bigger than education alone. It is about empowerment, leadership, and discovering career pathways through learning that blends academic knowledge with traditional and cultural knowledge.
Why Building Capacity Together Matters
The future does not grow by accident. It grows when people are given the right tools, support, and space to learn.
The Building Capacity Together program is not just designed to help close the education gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians but provide Indigenous youth the chance to earn credits toward a career in Environmental Science.
What makes this initiative especially powerful is its unique approach to learning. This is not about asking students to leave culture at the door, but blending academic learning with traditional and cultural knowledge in a way that feels relevant, grounded, and community-based.
It is designed to help build:
- confidence
- skills
- belonging
- momentum to grow what comes next
That matters. Because when learning feels connected to identity, place, and purpose, it can take deeper roots and produce better results.
Why Project Forest Is Proud To Support
We know that lasting impact comes from actions backed by long-term thinking.
The same way a forest needs care, patience, and the right conditions to grow, young people need access to opportunity, encouragement, and support that is rooted in community. The BCT program reflects that kind of thinking.
It is a powerful and forward-looking initiative because it does more than teach. It helps nurture future environmental leaders while supporting Indigenous ownership, local opportunity, and stronger community capacity over time.
That is the kind of work that can keep growing well beyond the classroom. We are proud to support this program alongside Frog Lake First Nation and Lakeland College, and to stand behind an initiative that is grounded in empowerment, education, and meaningful collaboration.
Come On The Journey With Us
We are seeking seed funding to help bring this program to life.
This is an opportunity to support something early, meaningful, and full of long-term potential. If you believe in investing in Indigenous youth, community-led learning, and future pathways in environmental science, we would love to get in touch. There is more to come, and we are excited to share the journey as it unfolds.
To support or learn more about how to get involved, we would love to hear from you.