Explore Mila's latest Impact Report, which showcases the remarkable achievements of our community members over the past year.
Join us at Mila on November 26 for the launch of the report and policy guide that outlines actionable recommendations for building inclusive AI ecosystems.
Mila's annual supervision request process for Fall 2025 admissions will be open from October 15 to December 1.
Delivered in partnership with Indspire, Indigenous Pathfinders in AI is a career pathway program designed to inspire Indigenous talent to learn, develop and lead the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), shaping a future marked by their contributions.
The field of AI is advancing at an unprecedented pace, shaping the future of diverse industries and influencing global socio-economic landscapes. As this transformative technology continues to evolve, it is imperative that Indigenous voices, perspectives, knowledges and talent actively contribute to its development.
Indigenous Pathfinders in AI is an enriching summer program designed to offer participants a unique opportunity to explore the world of AI. Through a series of workshops, activities and collaborative projects, participants delve deeper into the subject through an experience that emphasizes Indigenous approaches, perspectives and communities.
Running from late May to mid-July, it offers an in-person learning experience, designed to facilitate an in-depth exploration of the AI space and its adjacent domains. Our vision for the program is to:
The program is open to First Nations, Inuit and Métis students at the post secondary level, as well as those who have recently completed their studies, or who have relevant experience.
Applicants should have a keen interest in learning about the AI space, including both technical and non-technical components. Basic knowledge of AI, relevant skills and experience are an asset.
The application process for Summer 2025 will launch on December 1st, 2024 and will close in January 2025.
Each participant receives a stipend for taking part in the program.
Over the course of the summer, participants will engage and learn through a variety of workshops and hands-on experiences covering a wide range of AI-related topics, including technical aspects and fields adjacent to AI.
The program's project-based design allows students to conceptualize community-centred projects, rooted in the development of AI solutions for Indigenous and real-world community challenges.
Learning Objectives
Indigenous Pathfinders in AI emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on four key learning objectives:
The program takes a "learn from each other" approach, acting as a platform for mutually beneficial knowledge exchange between AI specialists and Indigenous talent.
Guest speakers will include Mike DeGagné (Indspire), Yoshua Bengio, Michael Running Wolf, Elissa Strome (CIFAR), Blake Richards, David Rolnick, and many more!
Online primer: May 28-30th
Image caption: Tatanka Leads the Way with Honour and Respect by Lakota artist Kim Soo Goodtrack, 2024.
Yes! Each participant receives a $5,800 stipend for taking part in the program.
Yes. While each situation is evaluated individually, we don't want travel and accommodation costs to be a barrier to your participation. Please contact lynnsey.chartrand@mila.quebec for more details.
All participants will be notified of their participation in the program by April 15, 2024.
If you have any questions about what is meant by "recent graduates", please contact lynnsey.chartrand@mila.quebec to discuss your situation.
If you have any questions about the program, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
