In June 2025, the National Guardians Network welcomed over 200 Guardians, Elders, youth, and community leaders to Victoria, BC—on the lands and waters of the Lək̓ʷəŋən-speaking Peoples, specifically the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations—for a landmark gathering that is reshaping the future of conservation in Canada.
The event was grounded in ceremony, Indigenous values, and the lived experiences of those protecting their territories every day.
A Powerful Opening
The arrival of the canoes in what is now known as the Inner Harbour marked an unforgettable moment. A powerful expression of nationhood and belonging, it reminded all present that Guardianship is sacred practice, carried forward with intention and care.
What We Heard
Throughout the week, one message stood out: Guardians want more spaces to connect, share, and lead. In sessions and conversations—formal and informal—there was a deep exchange of knowledge, stories, and solutions.
NGN hosted a Guardian-led session that sparked some of the most engaged dialogue of the entire event. Guardians spoke with clarity and purpose about the importance of owning their narratives and building spaces that reflect their realities.
This momentum is now guiding our next phase: the Guardian Exchange Program—supporting Nation-to-Nation learning grounded in local knowledge, shared goals, and land-based practice.
Where the Movement Is Going
Workshops and strategy sessions covered urgent and meaningful themes—from species protection and wildfire recovery to youth mentorship and cultural restoration. The commitment was clear: Guardians are ready to lead.
Connections made at the gathering are already turning into collaborations. This spirit of unity and shared purpose is at the heart of what NGN is here to support.
Looking Ahead
NGN will continue to build partnerships—with Nations, governments, and ally organizations—to ensure Guardians have what they need: sustainable funding, capacity-building opportunities, and storytelling platforms that amplify their voices.
We’re energized by what’s ahead. Our growing team and upcoming programs are all focused on one goal: showcasing and supporting Guardians in action.
To every Guardian, Elder, youth, speaker, and partner who joined us, Thank you.
In June 2025, the National Guardians Network welcomed over 200 Guardians, Elders, youth, and community leaders to Victoria, BC—on the lands and waters of the Lək̓ʷəŋən-speaking Peoples, specifically the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations—for a landmark gathering that is reshaping the future of conservation in Canada.
The event was grounded in ceremony, Indigenous values, and the lived experiences of those protecting their territories every day.
A Powerful Opening
The arrival of the canoes in what is now known as the Inner Harbour marked an unforgettable moment. A powerful expression of nationhood and belonging, it reminded all present that Guardianship is sacred practice, carried forward with intention and care.
What We Heard
Throughout the week, one message stood out: Guardians want more spaces to connect, share, and lead. In sessions and conversations—formal and informal—there was a deep exchange of knowledge, stories, and solutions.
NGN hosted a Guardian-led session that sparked some of the most engaged dialogue of the entire event. Guardians spoke with clarity and purpose about the importance of owning their narratives and building spaces that reflect their realities.
This momentum is now guiding our next phase: the Guardian Exchange Program—supporting Nation-to-Nation learning grounded in local knowledge, shared goals, and land-based practice.
Where the Movement Is Going
Workshops and strategy sessions covered urgent and meaningful themes—from species protection and wildfire recovery to youth mentorship and cultural restoration. The commitment was clear: Guardians are ready to lead.
Connections made at the gathering are already turning into collaborations. This spirit of unity and shared purpose is at the heart of what NGN is here to support.
Looking Ahead
NGN will continue to build partnerships—with Nations, governments, and ally organizations—to ensure Guardians have what they need: sustainable funding, capacity-building opportunities, and storytelling platforms that amplify their voices.
We’re energized by what’s ahead. Our growing team and upcoming programs are all focused on one goal: showcasing and supporting Guardians in action.
To every Guardian, Elder, youth, speaker, and partner who joined us, Thank you.
