The Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada (IPAC) hosted its 35th Annual Mentorship Gathering from June 4-7, 2026, in Thunder Bay (Animikii-Wiikwedong), on the traditional territory of Fort William First Nation. Proudly cohosted by NOSM University and Lakehead University, this national Gathering brought together approximately 250 Indigenous physicians, residents, and medical students from across Canada.
IPAC's Annual Mentorship Gathering is a cornerstone event that strengthens community, fosters collaboration, and advances Indigenous health by connecting learners and physicians at all stages of their medical journeys. This is the first time the Gathering has been hosted in Thunder Bay.
Guided by the theme "Leading Together with Love," the gathering created a space for mentorship, leadership development, and cultural connection. Participants engaged in academic sessions, cultural teachings, and networking opportunities that celebrated Indigenous excellence in medicine and supported the next generation of Indigenous health-care leaders.
Highlights include contributions from two of the host universities' alumni. Dr. Becky Neckoway, an alumna of both NOSM University and Lakehead who has worked in Indigenous health for 11 years, will deliver the keynote, and Dr. Elycia Monaghan, a NOSM University alumna and current medical resident at Dalhousie University, will facilitate the Gathering's first Inuit Games session. The Gathering also proudly celebrated the accomplishments of 60 new Indigenous MDs from communities across Canada.
The Gathering marked a special day on the land at Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay), located on Fort William First Nation. "It is a sacred place where the Thunderbird rests, and we have the honour to welcome guests to the traditional territory of the Robinson-Superior Treaty in a good way," said Dr. Joseph LeBlanc, Associate Vice-President, Equity and Inclusion at NOSM University.
Elders and Knowledge Carriers helped create a safe and supportive space for all participants and provided guidance and cultural teachings. On the land, they facilitated sharing circles and offered traditional teachings, grounding the gathering in respect, connection, and community. It was the largest group of Elders and Knowledge Carriers to ever attend an IPAC Gathering.
"It was an honour to welcome Indigenous physicians and medical learners to Thunder Bay," said Dr. Michael Green, NOSM University President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean, and CEO. "Hosting gave us an opportunity to highlight the strength and richness of the Indigenous medical community in Northern Ontario and to connect NOSM University learners, physicians, and Knowledge Carriers with peers from across Canada. It was a unique opportunity to foster mentorship and strengthen relationships that support Indigenous medical education and health."
"Lakehead University was honoured to partner with NOSM University and the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada to welcome Indigenous physicians, residents, and medical learners from across the country to Thunder Bay," said Dr. Gillian Siddall, Lakehead University's President and Vice-Chancellor. "Gatherings like this strengthen the relationships, mentorship networks, and educational pathways that help Indigenous learners thrive. We are especially proud to celebrate Indigenous leaders such as Dr. Becky Neckoway, whose journey from Lakehead University to a career in Indigenous health demonstrates the impact that community, education, and mentorship can have in shaping the future of health care in Canada."
"We are deeply grateful to NOSM University and Lakehead University for their partnership in hosting this year's Annual Mentorship Gathering. Their commitment to advancing Indigenous health and medical education makes this gathering possible and reflects the kind of collaboration needed to support Indigenous learners and physicians across the country," says Melanie Osmack, Executive Director, Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada.
