AFOA CANADA ANNOUNCES 2026 RECIPIENT OF INDIGENOUS LEADERSHIP AWARD
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OTTAWA, Ont., Feb. 9 – AFOA Canada is pleased to announce Candace Bennett as the 2026 recipient of the AFOA Canada Indigenous Leadership Award, sponsored by TD Bank Group, which recognizes leadership and achievement in Indigenous management, finance, and governance.
The award is presented to an individual who has shown a long-term commitment to excellence, has made significant contributions to the management, finance, and governance fields, and has had a measurable impact on the performance of an Indigenous community or organization.
“Receiving the AFOA Canada Indigenous Leadership Award is a profound reminder that leadership is, at its core, an act of service. Every decision I make is guided by the understanding that leadership carries responsibility, not only for today’s outcomes, but for the long-term wellbeing of our people,” says Bennett, who is the CEO of the First Nations Housing Professionals Association (FNHPA). “Ultimately, this award affirms a commitment to leadership that is accountable to community, guided by First Nation values, and focused on creating meaningful, sustainable change.”
The award will be presented at a ceremony on February 12, 2026, during AFOA Canada’s 24th National Conference in Montreal, Que.
“TD is proud to support initiatives and programs that uplift Indigenous Peoples. This award celebrates the outstanding achievements of leaders from the Indigenous community who are creating meaningful impact and honours those who exemplify financial excellence through strengthening and empowering Indigenous communities,” says Doris Bear, Vice President, Indigenous Banking, TD Bank Group.
“This is a celebration of leadership that combines excellence with impact,” says Terry Goodtrack, President and CEO, AFOA Canada. “Leaders like Candace Bennett help move Indigenous communities forward through vision, integrity, and long-term commitment.”
About AFOA Canada
After 27 years as an Indigenous Institution, AFOA Canada is the center for excellence and innovation in Indigenous management, finance, and governance. It is the only organization in Canada that focuses on the capacity development and day-to-day needs of those Indigenous professionals who are working in all areas of management, finance, band administration, leadership, and program management.
For further information and interview requests, please contact:
Toni Baggos
Acting Director, Marketing and Communications
tbaggos@afoa.ca
