Sagkeeng First Nation welcomed in Dominican Republic

In June 2026, a new group of youth from Sagkeeng First Nation returned from the Dominican Republic after taking part in the community’s second LiveDifferent Build trip of the year.

They spent the week working alongside local families to help build safe homes. They also experienced something deeper. As relationships formed and trust grew, many of the young people began to see themselves and others differently.

This was one of the most meaningful Builds our team has been part of.

The Power of Feeling Welcome

One afternoon, several youth returned from a community connection activity in tears. As they shared what had happened, they spoke about how welcome they felt by people they had only just met. They talked about the kindness they experienced and how much it meant to feel accepted.

One young person reflected on how powerful it was to be included so quickly by complete strangers.

It was a reminder that people often remember how they were treated long after a conversation ends. The warmth they experienced left a lasting impression.

A New Sense of Hope

A new country can feel intimidating. Meeting unfamiliar people can be uncomfortable. Volunteering in a completely different environment can stretch anyone beyond their comfort zone.

One youth arrived carrying significant challenges from home. She was uncertain about what life would look like after high school and was struggling to find direction.

As the week unfolded, she began opening up. She sought out conversations with leaders and peers. She allowed others to walk alongside her.

By the end of the trip, she was writing letters to people who had encouraged her. She expressed gratitude for the support she received and for the relationships she had built. We are grateful that she joined this Build at such an important time in her life.

Her growth reflected what many volunteers experience; while families received a home, the volunteers returned home changed as well.

Thank You, Sagkeeng First Nation

We want to express our sincere gratitude to the leaders of Sagkeeng First Nation for their commitment to young people.

Providing opportunities like this requires vision and dedication. It requires a belief that youth deserve experiences that challenge them and help them grow.

The care shown by the community’s leaders was evident throughout the trip. Their investment in youth is creating a lasting impact not only in Canada, but also in the lives of the families they served in the Dominican Republic.

Celebrating a Milestone

The impact of these relationships did not end when the Build was over.

Last week, two members of the LiveDifferent team travelled to Sagkeeng First Nation to celebrate graduation with the students. Many of the graduates had participated in Build trips, and several other students came simply to support and cheer on their friends.

What stood out most was the genuine connection between the students and the LiveDifferent team. There were heartfelt reunions, lots of laughter, and a clear sense of pride in what these young people have accomplished.

During the celebration, LiveDifferent’s Chief Impact Officer, Ryan, had the opportunity to speak to the graduates. He shared about the character he has seen in them and the difference they are capable of making in the world. His words reflected what many of us have witnessed firsthand. These are young people with tremendous potential and bright futures ahead of them.

Graduation marks the end of one chapter, but it is also the beginning of another. As these students look toward what comes next, we are excited to see how they will continue to grow, lead, and impact those around them.

Moments like these remind us that the most meaningful part of this work is not a single trip or event; it is the ongoing relationship. It is about walking alongside young people as they grow in compassion, resilience, and teamwork, and begin to see themselves as future leaders.

We could not be prouder of this graduating class and all they have achieved. We look forward to seeing what comes next.

Investing in Young People Changes Lives and Shapes the Future

The stories in this newsletter are a reminder of what can happen when young people are given the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone and serve others. Build experiences help youth grow in confidence, discover new strengths, and see the difference they can make in the world. For many, the impact continues long after they return home.

A Summer of Hope

This means hundreds of children will continue receiving nutritious meals even while school is out. What a beautiful reminder that love doesn’t take a summer vacation.

To everyone who made this possible, thank you. Your generosity is providing more than meals. You are giving children strength, stability, and the opportunity to grow and thrive during a season that can often be difficult for many families.

Welcome, Jodi

As mentioned, we are excited to officially welcome Jodi as LiveDifferent’s new Haiti Engagement Lead!

In this role, Jodi will help strengthen relationships with our Haiti supporters and grow awareness and engagement around our school, nutrition program, and Freedom Village.Jodi and her husband, Michael, have supported our Haiti nutrition program since 2018 after their first visit with us. Her connection to Haiti has continued to grow, including a return visit in September 2024 where she spent time at Freedom Village and met the girls who call it home.

She brings more than 25 years of experience in corporate communications, marketing, learning and development, and executive coaching. Nearly two years ago, she launched her own coaching and facilitation business, creating space to step into opportunities like this role with LiveDifferent.

Jodi’s vision is simple but powerful: to help connect the partners and supporters needed to fill Freedom Village with girls whose lives are transformed through love, safety, education, and opportunity.

Walking Alongside Vulnerable Children

Our Freedom Village family also continues to grow.

Recently, a 14-year-old girl (name not shared due to privacy) was temporarily placed into our care after experiencing abuse, deportation from the Dominican Republic, and the heartbreaking loss of her mother. While child protection officials continue to determine her long-term placement, she has already been warmly welcomed by the girls at Freedom Village.

Thank you for helping create a place where children facing unimaginable circumstances can experience safety, dignity, and hope.

Travel Notice Feb 2026: LiveDifferent Builds in Baja California, Mexico

Safety Notice – Baja California Builds (LiveDifferent), Feb 2026

We are continuing to closely monitor conditions in Baja California, Mexico, in collaboration with trusted local partners, community leaders, and on-the-ground staff. At this time, our humanitarian Builds remain located in established communities where we have long-standing relationships and proven safety protocols.

Participant safety is our top priority. All programming includes structured supervision, controlled transportation, and secure accommodations. We follow current travel guidance and adjust plans as needed to ensure responsible, informed decision-making. We currently have a group on the ground, and they have experienced little disruption to our regular schedule.

At this time, we are not anticipating any disruption to future scheduled Builds. Families and participants will be notified promptly of any changes. We remain committed to creating meaningful, safe service experiences through LiveDifferent while prioritizing the wellbeing of every volunteer and community member involved.

Welcoming
Diederik Pen to LiveDifferent’s Board of Directors

We are thrilled to announce that Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines & WestJet Group COO, has joined LiveDifferent’s Board of Directors.

As a leader of Canada’s most respected airline and a champion for LiveDifferent’s causes, Diederik brings a wealth of leadership experience, compassion, and a deep commitment to community impact.

Diederik’s connection to LiveDifferent began in November 2024, when he and his wife, Hiske, joined a group of WestJetters in the Dominican Republic for the annual WestJet LiveDifferent Build. Together, they worked alongside local families and LiveDifferent’s on-the-ground team to construct homes and share life-changing experiences.

The impact of that week continued well beyond the trip. Diederik returned the following spring with his daughter, Vivienne, who chose to explore the Build community as part of a project for her studies in architecture.

It is clear that for Diederik, this work is personal. His heart for people, belief in the power of compassion, and alignment with LiveDifferent’s mission make him an incredible addition to our board.

We are grateful to have Diederik join the LiveDifferent team and look forward to all we will accomplish together in the years ahead.

Find out more about LiveDifferent’s partnership with WestJet and the impact it continues to make.

→ Learn more

With Love Gala 2025: Together We Thrive

On September 18th, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights was filled with warmth, generosity, and community as over 400 guests gathered for LiveDifferent’s With Love Gala in Winnipeg.

The theme for the evening, “Together We Thrive,” captured the heart of what LiveDifferent is all about: when people unite in kindness, compassion, and shared purpose, we create possibilities far greater than any of us could on our own. This spirit was reflected throughout the night, from inspiring words to meaningful connections.

We were thrilled to have Ace Burpee as our lively emcee, keeping the evening full of energy and heart. Mayor Scott Gillingham shared a few words of encouragement, reminding us of the importance of investing in our young people. CEO Charles Roberts and Board Member Sheila North delivered powerful keynotes, highlighting the lasting impact LiveDifferent’s work is having across Canada and in Haiti.

Because of the generosity of our sponsors, contributors, volunteers, and every single attendee, the With Love Gala raised more than $180,000 in net proceeds—funds that will directly empower youth in Canada through mental wellness programming and support families and students in Haiti with education and opportunity.

It was truly an unforgettable evening of connection, compassion, and community. We showed what’s possible when we come together—together, we thrive.

We can’t wait to continue building on this momentum. Stay tuned for the 2026 With Love Gala date; we look forward to celebrating with you again.

Celebrating the second annual Weechihototan Build in Mexico

A story of resilience, leadership and compassion

Earlier this month, a group of 26 Indigenous youth and chaperones from three Premier First Nations in Northern Manitoba—Bunibonibee Cree Nation, Sagkeeng First Nation, and Tataskweyak Cree Nation—embarked on the second annual Weechihototan Build, travelling to rural Baja California, Mexico. Over eight days, they joined forces with local families and LiveDifferent staff to construct two safe, secure homes for families living in extreme poverty, where homes often lack running water, kitchens, and proper sleeping space.

“The youth saw themselves in the families they were helping—facing similar challenges like limited access to clean water and overcrowded housing,” said Charles Roberts, CEO of LiveDifferent. “But they also found something deeper: a shared spirit of resilience and community. They didn’t just build homes, they built connection, understanding, and a renewed sense of hope for the future.”

Yet, as the Build unfolded, the participants were carrying unseen burdens. Wildfires were raging across Northern Manitoba. For many students, the most pressing question echoed loudly: Would we have homes to return to? Those from Tataskweyak Cree Nation were under evacuation orders, which thankfully saw their evacuation lifted shortly after the youth’s return to Canada—a relief marking that their homes and land were safe.

Despite the worry, the youth remained present, pouring their effort, energy, and cultural pride into every brick they laid. Each day was filled with laughter, sweat, and the deep bonds that form when collective purpose meets hard work. Their courage and commitment were both humbling and inspiring.

This initiative couldn’t have happened without immense support from the Chief and Councils of each participating community, dedicated chaperones, committed LiveDifferent staff, and Build-lead volunteers. A special thank-you to WestJet, whose generosity made the entire journey possible through the gift of flight.

To learn more about this unforgettable experience and its impact on Indigenous youth, watch Sheila North’s interview with CBC News, where she reflects on the transformative power of the Build.

👉 Watch the CBC interview here

Weechihototan is a Cree word meaning “Let’s help each other,”—and that spirit was alive in every nail, every shared meal, and every story told.

Together, with love: $211K raised to support youth programs

We’re thrilled to celebrate the success of this year’s With Love Gala, held on April 15, 2025, at WestJet’s campus in Calgary. It was a powerful evening of connection, storytelling, and impact—and thanks to the generosity of our community, we raised an amazing $211,000 in net proceeds to support youth across Canada and beyond.

From inspiring speeches to unforgettable performances, the night was filled with joy, heart, and a shared belief in a better future for youth. Guests came together in the spirit of compassion, enjoying an atmosphere of celebration and purpose—all in support of LiveDifferent’s mental wellness and humanitarian programming.

This ripple effect will be felt far and wide. Funds raised will help us reach more youth with the tools they need to build resilience, discover their value, and become compassionate leaders in their communities—locally and internationally.

A heartfelt thank you to WestJet, our event sponsor and host, and to every sponsor, volunteer, and guest who made the evening possible.

Together, we are building a brighter future—with love.

The ice road tour – a journey of impact and connection

For over a decade, LiveDifferent has worked alongside Indigenous communities to empower youth through meaningful programming. This year’s Ice Road Tour was no exception, bringing hope and encouragement to students in 10 remote communities across northern Manitoba.

Navigating challenging conditions, our team travelled ice roads to deliver 64 assemblies and workshops over 20 days, engaging 1,470 students with messages of resilience, self-worth, and cultural empowerment.

Building relationships beyond programming 

A key component of the Ice Road Tour’s success is the relationships built between the LiveDifferent team and the communities they visit. Beyond assemblies and workshops, the team engaged with students and community members in informal and meaningful ways, fostering trust and deeper connections. Some of these activities included:

• Hosting movie nights in the school gym to create a fun, relaxed environment for students and families.
• Teaching students how to skate and providing opportunities for physical activity and skill-building.
• Playing volleyball and other sports with students, encouraging teamwork and positive social interactions.
• Providing karaoke nights to offer a fun, positive activity and a safe space for students.
• Participating in community events, such as hockey tournaments, ice-fishing, talent shows, and fishing derbies, provided the team with a richer understanding of the culture and a deeper connection to the community.

These activities helped strengthen relationships and made LiveDifferent’s presence in the communities more impactful and memorable.

Tackling critical issues 

Indigenous youth face disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges and school disengagement. LiveDifferent addressed these concerns head-on, integrating our Circles Program and the theme “What Really Matters?” to equip students with practical tools for navigating life’s pressures with purpose and self-awareness.

Real stories, real impact 

The impact of the Ice Road Tour was felt deeply within the communities. Students expressed newfound confidence, while educators saw a noticeable shift in engagement.

One teacher says, “I saw lots of kids that seemed to be shy or appear to be shy come out of their shell so to speak and that was really good that they were engaged and they felt that acceptance that warmth from the group that they made it open for everyone to participate nobody was singled out so that was perfect.

A future of possibilities 

LiveDifferent’s leadership team also played a role in laying the groundwork for future student engagement with LiveDifferent’s other programming. Agreements were made to send a group of youths and chaperones on a Build this June, furthering opportunities for cultural exchange and growth.

Despite challenges such as extreme weather and unexpected school closures, the Ice Road Tour reinforced the importance of meeting youth where they are at and providing them with hope, connection and support.

LiveDifferent remains committed to making a difference in Indigenous communities, and we invite you to be part of this journey. Visit livedifferent.com/donate to support future programs.

Celebrating the graduation of Academy students: A transformative journey

Academy: A unique cross-cultural experience

Academy is more than a gap-semester program; it’s a life-changing, immersive-learning experience. Over 13 weeks, students split their time between the stunning landscapes of Baja, Mexico, and the north shore of the Dominican Republic. They explore local cultures, develop new language skills, and gain a deeper understanding of global living conditions. The program is designed to help students grow as individuals while making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

We’re celebrating an incredible milestone—the graduation of our Academy students! Over the past three months, these remarkable individuals have embarked on a journey of growth, learning and service. Their dedication to making a difference and embracing new challenges has left an indelible mark on their lives and the communities they served.

Highlights from the Academy Experience

Volunteering and community impact

The Academy students spent their mornings volunteering at a local Medical Dental Clinic, supporting healthcare professionals in providing essential care to underserved communities. Their compassion and commitment left a lasting impression on both the patients and the students themselves.

Learning and personal development

Afternoons were filled with enriching sessions focused on personal and professional growth:

• Economic inequality lessons: Delving into systemic challenges and exploring actionable solutions.
• Resilience workshops: Building mental strength and adaptability through Circles sessions.
• Skill-Building with Elias (staff member in Mexico): Gaining leadership skills and fostering community engagement.
• Mental and physical health focus: Emphasizing holistic self-care and wellness practices.

Cultural immersion and reflection

Evenings provided opportunities for deep connection with host families and thoughtful reflection. Students also honed their language skills in Spanish classes, further enriching their cross-cultural experience.

Weekend adventures in nature

To cap off their transformative journey in Mexico, the students hiked San Pedro Martir, immersing themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. This shared adventure fostered camaraderie and offered moments for introspection.

A Journey of transformation

Throughout their time in the Academy, students:

• Volunteered in meaningful community projects, creating a positive and lasting impact.
• Developed a nuanced understanding of social justice and resilience.
• Built lifelong connections with host families and peers.
• Discovered their strengths by stepping out of their comfort zones.

Looking ahead

As these students graduate, they take with them not just memories but a renewed sense of purpose and the tools to inspire positive change in their own communities. We are immensely proud of their achievements and are excited to see the ripple effect of their experiences.

Thank you to our supporters

This program would not have been possible without the incredible support of our donors, partners, and host families. Together, we’re shaping the leaders of tomorrow and creating lasting change.

To our graduates: Congratulations! Your journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see the incredible impact you’ll make in the world.

Join the next academy cohort

Are you ready to embark on your own transformative journey? The next Academy cohort is now open for enrollment! Discover how you can grow, learn, and make a difference while experiencing the vibrant cultures of Baja, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.

Sign up today and take the first step toward a life-changing experience!

Fueling Dreams: How One Experience Can Transform Lives

For Jordan Schwartz, LiveDifferent Builds weren’t just trips—they were life-changing milestones that shaped his perspective and purpose. His journey began in high school when he joined his first Build in the Dominican Republic.

“The first build that I went on was to the Dominican Republic, in between when I was in grade 11 going into grade 12. I did that as part of a school trip with Seycove Secondary, which has been doing trips with LiveDifferent for over a decade. It started in our social justice class, and my brother had done one of the first trips with what was called Hero Holiday before LiveDifferent Builds. He’d had an awesome experience, and I wanted to go through that too.”

For Jordan, it was more than just a trip with friends. “What motivated me to do my first Build with LiveDifferent was partially the opportunity to experience something with a group of friends I was very close with. We were all interested in travelling, seeing new cultures, and having new experiences in a completely different part of the world. But separate from that, I was also becoming more interested in how to make more of an impact within the community.”
The trip itself left an indelible mark.

“The culture shock was something that impacted us all fairly immediately. But as we started to spend more time with the people and the families we were working with, we realized just how happy they were and how much their values were the same as ours—around family, friends, and spending time in your community. It was actually way easier to connect with those people than I ever possibly could have imagined.”

Building lifelong skills and connections

The Build trip not only reshaped Jordan’s worldview but also equipped him with tangible skills and life lessons.

“When I think about the work that we did—installing a swing set, pouring a new basketball court, and supporting a house build—every day we were faced with a new set of challenges. You didn’t necessarily have a set role going into it. You had to find your way to add value, bring your unique skill set, and collaborate to get the job done. Above all, the group of friends I went on that trip with are still my closest group of friends over a decade later.”

These experiences influenced his career and commitment to giving back.

“The early experiences I had with LiveDifferent really opened my eyes to what it’s like to work with an organization focused on social impact. That actually helped me early in my career when I was making decisions about what types of customers I wanted to work with. I ended up working in a practice focused on nonprofits for over three years. Having been a volunteer and someone who had a transformational experience, I brought that perspective into my work.”

Investing in youth

Jordan’s connection to LiveDifferent has grown over the years, from being a volunteer to now supporting the Youth Impact Fund as a donor.

“I remember being a student and looking at this opportunity but thinking it was maybe out of reach financially. There’s so much transformative impact in an experience like this. It’s such a huge return on investment to help youth get started in their fundraising journey. By giving them just a little support to get off that $0 mark, it can make a huge impact—not just on that individual but on the group they bring along with them.”

For Jordan, LiveDifferent’s approach to inspiring youth is what sets it apart.

“LiveDifferent has always focused on creating that spark within youth to pursue social impact as part of their lives. That’s a way more sustainable way to approach systemic change than just looking for shiny stats to put in a press release.”

Join the movement

This holiday season, you can help fuel dreams for youth like Jordan by supporting the Youth Impact Fund. Every $25 donation not only supports students in reaching their goals but also enters you into a draw for a round-trip flight for two with WestJet.

Donate now

Your support can create a ripple effect of change that starts with youth and extends to communities around the world. Let’s fuel dreams together.