Draft:Justin Langan
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Justin Langan (born December 15, 1998) is a Métis youth advocate, environmentalist, filmmaker, and political activist. He is widely recognized for his efforts in Indigenous advocacy, mental health awareness, environmental sustainability, and his work supporting Indigenous youth.
Langan's contributions have earned him multiple awards, including the Indspire Métis Youth Award. He is also the co-founder of O'KANATA, a non-profit organization focused on Indigenous empowerment through education, economic development, and environmental conservation.
Justin Langan | |
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| Born | Justin Ron Langan
December 15, 1998 (age 25) Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada |
| Alma mater | University of Manitoba (BA) |
| Years active | 2015-present |
| Awards | Full List |
| Website | justinlangan |
| Signature | |
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Early Life
[edit]Justin Langan was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and raised in Swan River, Manitoba. He was brought up in a Métis family, which profoundly influenced his advocacy for Indigenous rights. From a young age, Langan displayed an interest in leadership and community engagement, participating in various extracurricular activities and student governance throughout his school years.
Langan completed his high school education with distinction, earning 39 credits and receiving the Arts Award. His early exposure to Métis heritage and culture, combined with his family's advocacy work, shaped his future career trajectory. He later pursued a diploma in Journalism at Assiniboine Community College, followed by a Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies at the University of Manitoba, where he graduated in 2024.
Activism
[edit]Justin Langan's activism spans various fields, including Indigenous rights, environmental sustainability, mental health, and youth empowerment. His Métis heritage has been central to his advocacy, particularly in his efforts to elevate Indigenous voices and address the systemic issues faced by Indigenous communities across Canada.
Indigenous Advocacy
[edit]Langan is deeply committed to Indigenous rights and cultural preservation. In collaboration with the Manitoba Métis Federation, he created the “Recording Our History” interview series, where he documented the stories of Indigenous Elders, ensuring that their voices and experiences are preserved for future generations. His photography project, "Elders of Manitoba," featuring black-and-white portraits of Indigenous Elders, has raised awareness of Métis and Indigenous culture, while also supporting Indigenous charities through auctioning the works.
Through his nonprofit organization, O'KANATA, Langan focuses on Indigenous empowerment through education, employment, and cultural development. The organization works to support Indigenous youth with eco-literacy initiatives, digital storytelling, and employment training.
Environmental Sustainability
[edit]Langan is a leading voice in environmental sustainability, particularly through his work advocating for Indigenous-led climate action. His mini-documentary on meth addiction in Indigenous communities not only raised awareness of substance abuse but also brought attention to the environmental factors affecting Indigenous populations. He has been involved in several environmental initiatives, such as the Marine and Community Conservation Remote Externship and the United People Global Sustainability Leader Project.
Mental Health and Youth Empowerment
[edit]Langan's work in mental health has been widely recognized, particularly for his advocacy on the link between environment and mental well-being. As a Youth Ambassador for the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund and a Hope Ambassador for the We Matter Campaign, he has shared messages of hope, strength, and resilience, particularly within Indigenous communities. His advocacy also extends to mentoring Indigenous youth, ensuring they have access to mental health resources and sustainable education.
Honours and awards
[edit]Justin Langan has been recognized with numerous awards and honours for his dedication to community service, environmental advocacy, Indigenous rights, and youth leadership. His accolades include:
2024 Small Business Champions Award – World Trade Organization (2024): Recognized for his innovative contributions in helping small businesses, particularly those from Indigenous communities, participate more actively in global trade.
Canada's Volunteer Award - Emerging Leader (Prairies) (2024): Acknowledged for his exceptional volunteer efforts and contributions to improving the lives of others across Canada.
Voice for Rights Association’s Peace Award (2023): Awarded for his commitment to advancing human rights and international diplomacy.
RBC Future Launch Scholarship for Indigenous Youth (2023): Granted to support Indigenous students with strong academic performance and active community involvement.
ATCO’s Indigenous Education Award (2022): Given for demonstrating leadership capabilities and serving as a role model in Indigenous communities.
Business Council of Manitoba’s Indigenous Education Award (2022): Awarded for academic achievement and commitment to advancing Indigenous education.
Indspire Award - Métis Youth (2021): The highest honour bestowed by the Indigenous community, recognizing his national achievements as a Métis youth leader.
CBC Manitoba’s Future 40 Under 40 Award (2020): Honoured for his outstanding contributions to Indigenous advocacy and environmental activism before the age of 40.
Starfish Canada's Top 25 Environmentalists Under 25 (2020): Recognized for his exceptional environmental activism at a young age.
CAMIMH’s Champion Mental Health Award for Youth (2020): Awarded for his leadership in promoting mental health awareness and services for youth.
Manitoba Honour 150 Award (2021): Honoured as one of 150 individuals for making significant contributions to Manitoba’s community through leadership and service.