THE IBA CONGRATULATES JOCELYN FORMSMA, IBA BOARD MEMBER, ON BEING AWARDED THE 2024 INDSPIRE AWARD FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

TREATY #7 TERRITORY – The Indigenous Bar Association in Canada (“IBA” ) offers its congratulations to Jocelyn Formsma on being the recipient of the 2024 Indpsire Award for Public Service. Jocelyn is a member of the Moose Cree First Nation in Northern Ontario, was raised in Treaty #9 territory, and has been an IBA board member since 2019.

This recognition is a testament to Jocelyn's unwavering dedication, exceptional contributions, and tireless efforts to advance the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples across Canada. Jocelyn has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to advocating for Indigenous rights and promoting positive change within our communities. Her work has touched the lives of countless Indigenous individuals and communities, embodying the principles of justice, equity, and self-determination.

As the Executive Director of the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC), Jocelyn has played an instrumental role in advancing Indigenous initiatives and fostering cultural connections. Under her leadership, the NAFC has expanded its reach and impact, providing vital services and support to Indigenous peoples in urban and off-reserve settings.

IBA President Drew Lafond commented that “Jocelyn has assumed a central, charismatic and inspirational leadership role within the national Indigenous non-profit sector.  Her natural leadership style is particularly conducive to the NAFC and the IBA, where her focus and compassion have been, and continues to be, a catalyst for positive change for Indigenous peoples. In particular, Jocelyn’s work will resonate with urban Indigenous peoples for generations.”

The Indspire Awards recognize outstanding Indigenous individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, including public service, arts, business, and more. Jocelyn Formsma's well-deserved recognition in the Public Service category underscores the importance of her work in advocating for Indigenous rights, cultural preservation, and community development.

Jocelyn will be honoured for her achievement at the Indspire Awards Gala in Ottawa, on April 18, 2024. Jocelyn's achievements highlight the vital role that Indigenous leaders and advocates play in shaping a more inclusive and equitable Canada. The IBA remains committed to supporting Indigenous professionals and advancing justice within our communities.

The IBA is a national association of Indigenous lawyers (practicing and non-practicing), legal academics and scholars, articling clerks and law students, including graduate and post-graduate law students. We are mandated to promote the advancement of legal and social justice of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and the reform of laws and policies affecting Indigenous Peoples.