Indigenous Participation Plan (IPP) — Government of Canada Accommodation Facility

St. John’s, NL

AES Inc. was engaged by Moriyama Teshima Architects to lead the development, implementation, and ongoing monitoring of the Indigenous Participation Plan (IPP) for the design phase of the Government of Canada Accommodation Facility in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Working closely with Indigenous groups across the province, AES is responsible for facilitating meaningful engagement and supporting the co-development of participation activities that align with both project objectives and community priorities. This includes building relationships, identifying opportunities for involvement, and ensuring participation is grounded in respect, collaboration, and long-term value.

To date, a significant focus has been placed on youth engagement and skills development. Initiatives have included design-focused workshops, work-integrated learning opportunities, and design challenge camps that introduce Indigenous youth to careers in architecture, construction, and related fields. These activities are designed to create early exposure, build confidence, and connect community members to future opportunities linked to the project.

The IPP is intentionally designed to remain flexible, evolving in response to ongoing engagement and input from participating communities. This approach ensures that participation is not prescriptive but shaped by the interests, priorities, and aspirations of Indigenous partners throughout the project lifecycle.