Annual Mentorship Gathering 2026
- Dates: June 4 to 7, 2026
- Location: Animikii-Wiikwedong (Thunder Bay), Ontario, at Lakehead University
Event Overview
IPAC Annual Mentorship Gathering and AGM 2026
Theme: Leading Together with Love
IPAC’s Annual Mentorship Gathering and AGM will take place June 4 to 7 in Animikii-Wiikwedong (Thunder Bay), Ontario, on the traditional territory of Fort William First Nation, and will be hosted at Lakehead University in partnership with NOSM University.
The Gathering is now sold out.
The Gathering brings together Indigenous medical students, residents, and physicians, including members and those who may be joining for the first time. It is a chance to strengthen mentorship and leadership, and to share stories from professional, medical, academic, and life journeys.
Attendees will take part in academic sessions, cultural teachings, and networking experiences that honour Indigenous excellence in medicine.
Agenda and Registration
Agenda
View the agenda for the IPAC Annual Mentorship Gathering and join conversations and teachings that cultivate leadership, mentorship, and shared growth.
Registration
Registration is now closed. Thank you to all who registered.
Gathering Highlights
Each year, the Annual Mentorship Gathering creates space for moments grounded in love, connection, and community. From mentorship and learning to laughter and ceremony, these highlights offer a glimpse into what makes this gathering so meaningful.
Accreditation
This activity meets the certification criteria of the College of Family Physicians of Canada and has been certified by the Continuing Education and Professional Development Office at NOSM University for up to 9.75 Mainpro+® Certified Activity credits.
This event is an Accredited Group Learning Activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and approved by the Continuing Education and Professional Development Office at NOSM University. You may claim a maximum of 9.75 hour(s) (credits are automatically calculated).
Welcoming Reception
A warm opening to connect with members, build relationships, and set the tone for the gathering.
Keynote: Beyond Survival Cultivating Joy, Strength, and Connection in Medicine
Dr. Becky Neckoway is a First Nations physician from Thunder Bay with roots in Eabametoong First Nation and Fox Lake Cree Nation. Through her keynote, Beyond Survival: Cultivating Joy, Strength, and Connection in Medicine, explores what it means to move beyond survival in medicine and toward practices grounded in joy, strength, and relationship.
Incorporating Traditional Medicine & Practice
Join Karenna’onwe Dr. Karen Hill, a Mohawk physician from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, and Dr. Don Wilson, a member of the Heiltsuk Nation, for a focused session on integrating Traditional Medicine within contemporary healthcare.
Dr. Hill and Dr. Wilson will share insights on how Indigenous healing practices, grounded in culture and the natural world, can complement and strengthen Western medical approaches. This session will explore ways of bringing Indigenous knowledge and Western medicine together to support holistic care, respect for the land, and a deeper understanding of health and wellness.
Breakout Sessions
Breakout sessions will offer a mix of cultural and leadership-focused learning. Sessions will explore tools for thriving in leadership and the risk and reward about returning to your community, alongside Métis teachings and hands-on cultural experiences such as beading, powwow fitness, and Inuit games.
Banquet, Graduation Ceremony, and IPAC Awards
A warm and celebratory space where we lift up the accomplishments, strengths, and contributions of our members at every stage of their medical journey.
The evening will also include a graduation celebration honouring Indigenous medical students in the Class of 2026 and celebrating our IPAC Award recipients.
Comedian Todd Genno will bring laughter and stories that celebrate community and culture.
Day on the Land
A day grounded in culture, learning, and community connection. We will gather on the land at Anemki Wajiw to take part in cultural teachings and shared activities, and spend time with local Indigenous artisans who will be offering their creations and stories.
National Updates – Call for Submissions
Each year, IPAC shares national updates that reflect the work shaping Indigenous medical education, physician wellness, and system change across Turtle Island. This year, updates will be shared ahead of the Annual Mentorship Gathering.
We invite Indigenous physicians, learners, community members, and partners to share updates on work supporting Indigenous health, medical education, and community wellness.
Deadline: May 12, 2026
Submission details are available here.
Accomodations
Our room block at the Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre (1 Valhalla Inn Road) is now full.
We’ve secured a limited number of additional rooms at the Hampton Inn & Suites (760 Arthur Street West).
Shuttle service will be provided between the Valhalla and Lakehead University.
Sponsors
We invite you to partner with IPAC as a sponsor and support meaningful impact in Indigenous health and wellness. Your sponsorship advances the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.