At the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, we believe that prosperity is rooted in people; their stories, lived experience, and the relationships they build along the way. That’s why we’re so excited to welcome Alejandra Metallic-Janvier as our new Program Officer.
Alejandra is a proud Mi’gmaq and DeneSuline woman from Listuguj Mi’gmaq First Nation and Cold Lake First Nation. With a deep background in youth mentorship, clean energy education, and Indigenous-led programming, she brings a grounded, community-centred lens to everything she does. Her work is shaped by cultural teachings, personal resilience, and a belief in the power of connection, especially with and for young people.
We recently sat down with Alejandra to learn more about her journey, the teachings that guide her, and her vision for Indigenous prosperity. In this conversation, she shares how storytelling strengthens programming, why financial literacy is a tool for self-determination, and how youth leadership can spark long-term community change.
Get to know Alejandra, in her own words, as a sister, a mentor, and a program builder rooted in care, culture, and kinship. We’re thrilled to have her on the IPF team.
What does Indigenous prosperity look like to you, and how will your work as a Program Officer at IPF help bring that vision to life?
I envision Indigenous prosperity as a thriving state of being where communities are healthy and happy, taking care of each other. I think of the Anishinaabe principle of Mino-pimaadiziwin, and a dear
elder who opens her prayer with gratitude and love for all our relations. I also think of the balance between mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being, whereby our people and communities are free to choose, free to dream, and free to live life in a good way.
With a focus on reciprocity, empowerment, honour and responsibility, I believe that my work at IPF will contribute to this vision by empowering Indigenous youth and women to choose their path, as
well as building meaning connections with communities across Turtle Island.
Can you share a story from your life or past work that demonstrates how storytelling strengthens Indigenous programs or deepens community impact?
I believe storytelling is the core of Indigenous ways of knowing and doing. Sharing knowledge through story and art brings people together and creates space to learn from each other, leading to
strengthened relationships and a meaningful, long-lasting impact. As the granddaughter of an artist, I have always considered storytelling to be the best way to heal, to learn from the wisdom of others, and especially to connect to culture and family.
In my work at the Indigenous Enriched Support Program at Carleton University, I engaged with First Nations, Métis and Inuit students from all walks of life. After spending hours learning, laughing, and
letting deadlines creep, it was clear to me that storytelling is the glue that binds us all together. No matter how tough life gets, stories allow us to create space for each other and find comfort in connection. It is how we build trust, grow friendships, and take care of ourselves and our communities.
How has your Indigenous heritage shaped your approach to building programs, leading with intention, and communicating across diverse communities?
As a First Nations woman, I have always been closely connected to my Indigenous heritage. Being both Mi'gmaq and Denesuline, from the East and the West, my worldview has been shaped by diverse and
beautiful cultures. I have grown to value practicing spirituality every day, staying connected to nature, and being mindful of my health and well-being. I believe that my connection to culture is rooted in these core values that I actively seek every day.
As I have taken on leadership roles within my academic and professional environments, this way of life has supported me as I navigated challenges and overcame obstacles. As I communicate across diverse communities, I try to keep in mind that everyone has a story, and no two experiences will ever be the same. There is power and strength in diversity that I hope to
honour through the work I do.
What excites you most about joining the IPF team, and how do your experiences and strengths bring something unique to your role as Program Officer?
I am really excited to join the IPF team and contribute meaningfully to the Indigenous business ecosystem by uplifting youth and women entrepreneurs. I would like to offer my unique knowledge and
experience in Neuroscience and Mental health, working hands-on with youth and women in post-secondary education, and facilitating academic and wellness skills through a holistic two-eyed seeing curriculum. Additionally, I have been a part of building a mentorship program designed for Indigenous clean energy champions across Turtle Island.
I hope to draw on my background and wisdom to serve early-stage entrepreneurs, and be a positive energy that supports them in building confidence in their business Ideas and professional skills.
If you could amplify one message about Indigenous entrepreneurship through IPF’s programming and platforms, what would it be, and why does it matter right now?
I believe that amplifying the message of community is extremely Important to me. I wouldn't be where I am today without a supportive and Inclusive community. I believe that a strong community Is built
on healthy relationships, relational knowledge sharing, and practicing core values such as respect, humility, and love. IPF's programming is innovating the vision of prosperity through the embodiment of these principles and values, centring on Indigenous ways of knowing and doing. Together, this is how we are going to build a strong and healthy community of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit
entrepreneurs.
Is there a cultural teaching, story, or piece of wisdom that guides how you approach your work with community and partners?
I remember sitting with my grandpa in his art studio as a little girl, amazed at the beautiful, messy, and emotive atmosphere, feeling free to imagine what the world has to offer me, and me to it. He would always say that all we have is today, so focus on how you can be your best self today, without worrying too much about yesterday or tomorrow. I find this has helped me be mindful and present in all areas of my life.
Specifically, when engaging with community and partners, I try to focus on being the best version of myself in that moment. This reminds me to practice humility and respect and honour all the different perspectives and experiences that are at the table.
Lastly, what’s something fun or surprising about you that you think the Indigenous community or future program participants would enjoy knowing?
I come from a big family! I am the oldest of four siblings, but since both of my parents have remarried, there are eight siblings across both blended families. I believe this has helped me become more
extroverted and has influenced the way I see the world. I am extremely grateful for my relationships with my siblings and parents and hope to continue setting a positive example through healthy relationships and communication.