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Across the country, architecture and engineering firms are increasingly collaborating with Indigenous Nations and stakeholders. Ensuring Indigenous voices are on both sides of the table will enable the next generation of building to be shaped not only by concrete and steel, but also by land, lineage, and stories. The vision for ḴEL,ḴELOŦEN ȻE S,ISTEW̱ began in the summer of 2021. A team of firms placed a bid for a federal project that included an Indigenous benefits plan. Although their bid wasn’t selected, the belief for their shared vision inspired the creation of the ḴEL,ḴELOŦEN ȻE S,ISTEW̱ Award. Committed to increasing Indigenous representation in their industries a team of six firms partnered with the Victoria Native Friendship center to help break down barriers to education including finance’s and mentorship opportunities. Previously the fund was only available for applicants studying in British Columbia, but is now open nationally. ḴEL,ḴELOŦEN ȻE S,ISTEW̱ mentorship program is a great way to gain industry insight and connect with professionals. Many applicants have completed work terms with firms and built careers based off connections made through the application award.