Nomad FabLab: A Technological Caravan Connecting Indigenous Youth

Recognizing that the Onaki FabLab in Gatineau cannot directly reach Indigenous youth living in remote and often isolated communities in Quebec, the First Peoples Innovation Centre (CIPP) developed an innovative solution: the Nomad FabLab.

This unique initiative delivers cutting-edge technology and training directly to communities, regardless of their location. Following a successful pilot project in Quebec’s three Atikamekw communities, the Nomad FabLab now offers a 10-week digital training program tailored for Indigenous youth aged 15 to 30 who are out of school and unemployed. The program seeks to ignite interest in the limitless possibilities of digital technology while cultivating pride and confidence in their potential.

Tailored and Inclusive Training

Each cohort, comprising 15 participants per community, explores advanced digital tools and technologies such as:

  • Arduino programming (Electronics)
  • 3D printing
  • Laser cutting
  • Vinyl cutting
  • CNC Milling
  • Digital embroidery

These hands-on workshops immerse participants in a world of digital creation while reconnecting them with their cultural roots. The most motivated participants are invited to join the Onaki FabLab in Gatineau for a longer 6-month program, offering further opportunities such as becoming assistant instructors or instructors themselves.

Expanding Impact Across Quebec

With support from the MTESS and a team made up of 60% Indigenous youth trained at our FabLabs, the Nomad FabLab travels to four Indigenous communities each year, training around 30 participants annually. Since its inception, it has reached 20 communities across Quebec, including Wemotaci, Mashteuiatsh, Inukjuak, and Salluit.

This technological caravan embodies the CIPP’s commitment to bridging the digital divide for Indigenous youth, empowering them to envision a future full of professional and personal opportunities.

Below, explore the communities served by the Nomad FabLab:

THESE EVENTS HAVE HAPPENED
NOMAD FABLAB WASKAGANISH

Dive into the world of technology with laser engraving, 3D printing, CNC, and much more!

Are you Indigenous, between 15 and 30 years old, unemployed, and not enrolled in school? Now is the time to seize this unique opportunity!

Register now by email at Youth.Department@waskaganish.ca or call 819-895-2882 ext. 3522 to speak with Ashlynn Katapatuk.

Don’t miss this chance to develop your skills and shape your future!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOMAD FABLAB NEMASKA

The First Peoples Innovation Center is pleased to announce the organization of the Nomad FabLab in Nemaska. Registrations will be open until July 31st. Hurry up! To participate, contact Brittany Moar at bmoar@nemaska.ca. Join in or share the information!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOMAD FABLAB GESGAPEGIAG

 🎉🚀 Exciting News from the CIPP! 🚀🎉
We are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated arrival of the Nomad FabLab in Gesgapegiag! 💡✨

📅 Registration Deadline: April 24 📅

The Nomad FabLab offers a unique opportunity to explore the exciting world of digital fabrication, where you can bring your most innovative ideas to life. 🌟💻

Don’t miss this chance to register and join the Nomad FabLab community! 🛠️🌐

NOMAD FABLAB MASHTEUIATSH

Do you live in the Innu community of Mashteuiatsh?
Join us at the Nomad FabLab from October 30 to December 22, 2023. A wonderful opportunity to bring culture and technology closer together!