Indigenous Pathfinders in AI

Indigenous Pathfinders in AI is a summer program offered by Mila and Indspire aimed at inspiring Indigenous talent to learn, develop, and lead the evolution of AI, shaping a future marked by their contributions.

Through a thoughtfully curated series of workshops, activities, and collaborative projects, Pathfinders participants embark on an immersive journey into the world of AI. This experience enriches their understanding and hones their skill sets, while simultaneously integrating Indigenous approaches and perspectives, ensuring a holistic approach throughout the exploration.

Spanning from late May to mid-July, the program takes place primarily in-person at Mila in Montréal, Québec. Students receive a stipend of $5,800 as well as other support for travel and accommodation for their participation in the program.

Eligibility:

Applicants must be First Nations (status), Inuit and/or Métis as well as be enrolled in or have completed a post-secondary degree or possess relevant experience.

Important dates:

Application deadline: January 31st, 2025
Confirmation of acceptance into the program: March 3rd, 2025
Program kick-off: Week of May 26th, 2025
Program End: Week of July 14th, 2025

*For more information, please visit our website or inquire with Lynnsey Chartrand at lynnsey.chartrand@mila.quebec

Privacy:

We understand that the information we collect may be sensitive and personal. However, we want to assure you that protecting your data is our top priority. Your personal information is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Here is some important information about how we manage this data.

Access to Personal Information: Only a limited group of Mila and Indspire employees will have access to the information you provide on this form. In all cases, the confidentiality and security of your information will be assured.

Use of Data: The data provided will be used for the summer school participant selection process and for program purposes. It will be aggregated to create reports and analyses to meet reporting requirements to our funders. These reports do not contain any data that could identify a specific individual.

Right of Rectification and Deletion: You have the right to access, modify or delete your information. If you are selected for Pathfinders, your personal information will be destroyed when it is no longer required for the program. Otherwise, your personal information will be destroyed after nine (9) months at the latest.

Please indicate if you identify as First Nations (status), Inuit or Métis.*

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Please indicate, if applicable, the nation(s), tribe(s), hamlet(s)/community(ies) to which you are connected.

Name*

First NameLast Name

Please indicate if you have a first name we should use instead of your legal first name, wherever your legal first name is not legally required.

Email*

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Phone Number*

Please enter a valid phone number.

Please indicate which pronouns you use. Select all that apply.

Please indicate if you are already located in Montreal, and if not, where you are situated.*

Please indicate if you have any accessibility needs we can help meet. If yes, please elaborate.

Please indicate if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Please select the option that best describes your current situation.*

If applicable, please indicate which post-secondary institution you currently attend, or have recently graduated from.

If applicable, please indicate which year of post-secondary training you are in. If you are a graduate, please indicate your highest level of study.

Please indicate your degree program(s) and, if applicable, your major and minor (e.g., B.A. in Economics, minor in Sociology).

Please indicate if you have any relevant experience or prior training related to Artificial Intelligence, and if so, in what capacity (e.g., coding, linear algebra, Python).*

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Please describe why you would like to participate in the Indigenous Pathfinders in AI program. This might include how it aligns with your research interests, career goals, or supports specific qualifications (maximum of 500 words).*

0/500

Please describe your experiences with collaborative learning and how you believe you will contribute to a reciprocal "teaching each other" environment (maximum 250 words).*

0/250

Please describe how you imagine Artificial Intelligence being used for the benefit of Indigenous communities in the future (maximum 250 words).*

0/250

Please upload your CV/Resume*

How did you hear about the Pathfinders program?*