At the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, we know that prosperity is rooted in community — in the strength of our youth, the teachings of our ancestors, and the leaders who show up with care and consistency.
That’s why we’re honoured to welcome Robynn Sadler as our new Youth Programs Manager.
Robynn is a proud Red River Métis woman with over 25 years of experience in Indigenous housing, community development, and nonprofit leadership. She brings a strategic mind and a deeply relational heart to every role she takes on. Grounded in cultural teachings passed down through her family, Robynn’s leadership is shaped by reciprocity, resilience, and a commitment to walking alongside others — especially youth — as they step into their power.
Her vision for Indigenous prosperity goes beyond economics. For Robynn, it’s about seeing our people thrive; culturally, spiritually, socially, and economically. In her new role at IPF, she’ll be leading national programming that supports Indigenous youth in building financial and entrepreneurial skills, expanding digital access, and nurturing confidence through culturally-rooted learning.
We recently connected with Robynn to learn more about her journey, the values that guide her, and how she approaches program design with care and intention. In this spotlight, she shares the teachings that ground her work, the importance of youth-led solutions, and why she believes “you already carry what you need.”
Get to know Robynn as a leader, a builder, and a Métis woman committed to creating space for Indigenous youth to dream, grow, and thrive. We’re so proud to welcome her to the IPF team.
What does Indigenous prosperity look like to you, and how will your work as a Program Manager at IPF help bring that vision to life?
Indigenous prosperity to me is about thriving — not just economically, but culturally, spiritually, and socially. It means our people have access to opportunity, autonomy, and the ability to lead with our values and our wisdom. In my role as Youth Program Manager at IPF, I want to help young people see themselves as entrepreneurs, leaders, and change-makers. The programs we build should reflect
the strength and brilliance already present in our communities — my job is to help lift that up and walk alongside youth and early-stage entrepreneurs as they carve their own paths and build the future they want.
Can you share a story from your life or past work that demonstrates how storytelling strengthens Indigenous programs or deepens community impact?
Storytelling has always been at the heart of my approach to community-based work. I remember leading a series of engagement sessions across several communities where we weren’t just gathering feedback—we were creating space for Indigenous people to share their experiences in their own words. One
young person shared their journey with housing insecurity and how their perspective had never been asked for before. That moment stuck with me. When people are invited to speak from their truth, it deepens trust, strengthens program design, and reminds us why the work matters. Storytelling isn’t just a
communication tool—it’s a way of building accountability, respect, and connection into everything we do.
How has your Indigenous heritage shaped your approach to building programs, leading with intention, and communicating across diverse communities?
As a Métis woman, I carry with me a deep respect for relationships, reciprocity, and the strength of community. My approach is always collaborative — I believe the best solutions come from listening deeply and creating space for others to lead. I don't see leadership as having all the answers, but rather as creating the conditions for others to shine. This way of working helps me build trust, bridge perspectives, and ensure programs are rooted in care and accountability.
What excites you most about joining the IPF team, and how do your experiences and strengths bring something unique to your role as Program Manager?
IPF’s mission aligns directly with the work I’ve devoted my career to: Supporting Indigenous people to lead, build, and thrive on their own terms. What excites me most is being part of a team that is unapologetically focused on Indigenous-led economic empowerment! My background in Indigenous community development, non-profit leadership, and operational strategy means I bring both
vision and structure to program design. I love connecting people, ideas, and opportunities — and I’m passionate about creating programs that not only inspire but deliver meaningful outcomes for our people.
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?
The message I’d amplify is:
"You already carry what you need."
I come from a family of entrepreneurs, and I’ve seen firsthand the determination and innovation it takes to build something when no one is watching. Indigenous entrepreneurship isn’t a new concept — it’s in our blood. We’ve always traded, built, and created. The message I want all to hear is that their ideas are valid, your contributions are needed, and the journey is worth it — even if it takes time.
Is there a cultural teaching, story, or piece of wisdom that guides how you approach your work with community and partners?
A teaching passed down in my family is to never give up and to never let anyone or anything hold you back. You are in control of your life and your future. I come from a family of entrepreneurs, and I’ve seen how important self-drive is, especially when no one is there to hold you accountable but yourself. That’s when you have to stay focused on your purpose and your goals, no matter how long it takes. My mother always reminded me: "how you show up matters."
That includes showing up for yourself and in leadership. It is especially important in community work, its that consistency, that presence that helps build trust and move change forward. I carry that into every part of my work — with youth, with partners, and with community and in my own personal growth.
Lastly, what’s something fun or surprising about you that you think the Indigenous community—or future program participants- would enjoy knowing?
I'm a devoted animal lover and proud rescue parent to two dogs and three cats — all adopted. I also volunteer with a local cat rescue. Caring for animals has always been a joyful and grounding part of my life. They’ve taught me about loyalty, compassion, and the beauty of quiet connection. My home is full of fur, love, a little bit of chaos, and a whole lot of personality — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.