Engaging at the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference
May 2026
Mamow Ahyamowen participated in the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference, hosted by the Chiefs of Ontario (COO), from May 12–14, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario. The conference brought together First Nations leaders, organizations, researchers, and partners to explore First Nations Data Sovereignty and the critical role of data in supporting self-determination, informed decision-making, and community wellbeing.
Throughout the conference, the Mamow Ahyamowen team connected with attendees at an information booth, providing opportunities to share the Alliance’s work, answer questions, and engage in meaningful conversations about northern Ontario First Nations-led health data.
The team also co-presented with Steering Committee members from Independent First Nations Alliance (IFNA) and Giishkaandago’Ikwe Health Services (GHS). The presentation, Reclaiming Our Health: Using Community-Driven Data to Support Better Health, highlighted findings from Mamow Ahyamowen’s recent chronic conditions project, which examined the prevalence and incidence of 20 chronic conditions across 70 northern Ontario First Nations.
A highlight of the session was hearing directly from IFNA and GHS Steering Committee members, who shared how access to high-quality data has supported planning, informed decision-making, strengthened funding applications, and helped evaluate programs and services within their organizations. Their perspectives demonstrated the real-world value of community-driven research and reinforced that the true impact of data lies not only in creating reports, but in putting that information to work to support community priorities, improve health outcomes, and advance First Nations Data Sovereignty.
Events like the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference provide important opportunities to connect with First Nations organizations and partners, share knowledge and experiences, and discuss the opportunities and challenges of advancing First Nations Data Sovereignty. Chi-Miigwech to the Chiefs of Ontario for accepting our presentation proposal and for hosting this important conference for First Nations organizations and partners from across the province to come together, share their work, and continue these important conversations.
