A Leadership Philosophy
Kluane is a dynamic and compassionate leader who forges deep connections with women, Knowledge Keepers, and youth. She is widely recognized as a courageous and forward-thinking voice on Indigenous self-determination, especially in the context of the global ecological crisis, reconciliation, and systems change. Her approach to leadership is rooted in relationships and place-based values — a foundation she believes is essential for driving real, lasting transformation.
Grounded in Values, Relationship, and Impact
Kluane believes leadership is a responsibility — to community, to the land, and to the next generation.
Her work is guided by four core principles:
1. Leadership Rooted in Place
True transformation begins with knowing who you are and where you come from. Kluane leads from the land, from her people, and from teachings that emphasize balance, respect, and reciprocity.
2. Centering Indigenous Knowledge & Self – Determination
She champions Indigenous governance models, land-based worldviews, and community-driven solutions as essential pathways for Canada’s future.
3. Courageous Systems Change
Across government, policy, education, and climate action, she pushes for meaningful change — not surface-level reform. Her leadership challenges outdated structures and advances innovative, values-aligned solutions.
4. Empowering Youth & Emerging Leaders
Young people have always been central to her work. She founded Our Voices, supported countless youth initiatives, and continually invests in building strong, confident leaders who will shape the next era of Indigenous sovereignty and climate action.
VISION & SYSTEMS TRANSFORMATION
Kluane’s leadership is recognized across Canada for advancing bold, future-focused solutions grounded in Indigenous knowledge. Her work spans climate leadership, reconciliation frameworks, post-secondary transformation, and national policy shifts.
She is known for her ability to navigate complexity with clarity, unwavering values, and a focus on long-term impact.
Her leadership was recently recognized through numerous distinctions:
- David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Award
- SFU Outstanding Alumni Award
- Canada’s Top 100 Recognition
- Top 25 Canadian Women of Influence
- Governor General King Charles III Coronation Medal
These honours celebrate Kluane’s vision, her dedication to strengthening Indigenous sovereignty, and her transformative leadership across systems and sectors.
The Reconnection Vision & AFN National Climate Strategy
Kluane played a defining role in shaping First Nations climate leadership through two landmark initiatives:
the Reconnection Vision and the AFN National Climate Strategy.
The Reconnection Vision, developed after Yukon First Nations declared a climate emergency in 2020, this youth-led plan reframes climate action through culture, mental wellness, governance, and land stewardship. A values-based Yukon-led framework rooted in Relationships, Reconciliation, Responsibility, and Results.
This vision reshaped how the Yukon region engaged with federal partners, advanced collective priorities, and strengthened national influence. It is now regarded as a leading model for nation-to-nation collaboration and Indigenous governance.
The Reconnection Vision offers a brave and holistic manifesto to the ecological crisis — one that is gaining national and international recognition. It is now regarded as a leading model for nation-to-nation collaboration and Indigenous governance.
The Assembly of First Nations’ National Climate Strategy — Kluane played a pivotal role in advancing the transformative, first-of-its-kind framework developed for and by First Nations from coast to coast to coast. Through extensive advocacy, coordination, and relationship-building, she helped lead the complex national process that brought together Knowledge Keepers, youth, climate experts, and leadership from across all regions.
This strategy positions First Nations as climate leaders; as central to climate governance in Canada and outlines a bold, rights-affirming path forward that integrates Indigenous knowledge, self-determination, environmental stewardship, and community-driven action. It stands as one of the most significant Indigenous-led climate frameworks in the country’s history.
LIFELONG LEARNING & ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Kluane is committed to continual growth and education. She is:
- A graduate of the ICD.D Program
- M.B.A, Simon Fraser University
- Certificate in Indigenous Governance, University of Arizona
- Bachelor of Arts, Carleton University
- Alumna of the Jane Glassco Northern Fellowship
- Graduate of Harvard Business School – Executive Leadership Program
- Faculty Member, Banff Centre Indigenous Leadership Programs
A Leader of the Future
Kluane Adamek is part of a generation of Indigenous leaders transforming governance, climate action, and systems change across Canada and the world. Her work is grounded in love for her family, her Nation, her homeland, and the generations who will inherit what leaders choose today.
Her leadership is powerful, relational, and deeply values-driven — and her impact continues to grow.
