Mazda Canada is making a financial commitment to help students from Indigenous and low-income communities graduate high school.

The company has announced a $420,000, three-year commitment to support Indspire and Pathways to Education. Money will be split equally between the two organizations.

“Our rich heritage has taught us that building a better world starts with building up those around us,” said David Klan, president and CEO of Mazda Canada, in a news release.

“It’s why we are taking steps to empower the next generation of thinkers through investments in education, resources, and mentorship. By enriching lives and removing barriers to meaningful opportunities for more people, we’re contributing to a brighter future – not only within the automotive industry, but our broader economy and society.”

Indspire

Indspire is a national Indigenous charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people by inspiring achievement in students from kindergarten to Grade 12 and beyond.

Mazda Canada’s funding will support youth in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM).

The organization says more than 70 per cent of employed Indspire graduates return to their communities, serving Indigenous populations as educators, health-care professionals, engineers and more.

“This partnership will significantly help to address the current underrepresentation of Indigenous students in STEAM fields of study,” said Mike DeGagné, president and CEO of Indspire, in the release.

“We are proud to be working with Mazda Canada on this initiative which will not only enable First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students to pursue STEAM studies, but will also ensure that they are well-equipped to enter STEAM careers after graduation.”

Pathways to Education

Pathways to Education supports youth living in low-income communities, ensuring they have the necessary support to graduate high school and build the foundations of a successful future.

Mazda Canada and Pathways will work together to build a social responsibility program, which will include mentoring, one-on-one support and enriching programming with a focus on STEAM programs.

“Now more than ever, young people living in low-income communities across the country are facing increased barriers to success,” said Tracey Taylor-O’Reilly, president and CEO of Pathways to Education, in the release.

“This partnership with Mazda Canada underscores our shared commitment to empowering these students to become the next generation of leaders. Together, we’re building a future where every young person in Canada is equipped with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.”