2025 CapU Alumni Awards: Mason Ducharme

Mason Ducharme knew he wanted to make a difference from an early age.

Growing up between Vancouver and Lil’wat Nation, he witnessed the socio-economic gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

Today, as the Co-Executive Director of the Centre for First Nations Governance and National Community Research Director for the Rebuilding First Nations Governance Project, Ducharme has dedicated his life to closing those gaps.

His passion for community leadership began with his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) at Capilano University. “During my BBA, I was fortunate to have two internships at a Big Four accounting firm as a tax associate,” he said. “While it was a prestigious opportunity, I quickly realized the corporate world didn’t align with Indigenous values. That’s when I pivoted to public administration.”

This decision led him to earn a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and, most recently, a PhD, making him only the second-ever PhD graduate from Lil’wat Nation, underscoring his dedication to his academic and community pursuits.

A natural-born leader

At just 23, Ducharme became the youngest band administrator for the Nuchatlaht Tribe, stepping into a role where he learned the power of leadership and advocacy. Later, as Director of the Ts’zil Learning Centre, he championed culturally relevant education for his community.

“I had sworn off leadership roles, although, like a situational leader, I tend to end up back in leadership roles when I’m called upon by elders and other respected people,” he said.

His commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed: he received the Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship and Indspire’s Building Brighter Future Bursary and is also a Ch’nook Scholar.

Family as a driving force

While pursuing his PhD, Mason welcomed his daughters, Riel and Macy, into the world.

Thinking about future generations also motivated him to finish his research. “I believe it will lead to a better future for the future generations. I do my work to give back to them,” he said.

Being raised by his grandmother and father, he understands the importance of intergenerational support. “I look back fondly on the unconditional love that my grandma provided me, along with the safe space she gave me.”

“I believe that both of these places and people have shaped me into the kind and caring human I aspire to be every day, who never forgets his roots.”

A vision for the future

Ducharme is optimistic about the future of Indigenous self-determination. He believes that Bill C-92, which recognizes Indigenous jurisdiction over child and family services, is a significant step toward reclaiming governance under Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution.

“I believe this transition to self-government will alleviate many of the socio-economic concerns that Indigenous people face and empower our people again.”

Reflecting on his time at CapU, Mason credits his instructors and the hands-on learning environment for laying the foundation of his leadership style. “Overall, my CapU experience has taught me the importance of lived and work experience to excel not only in school, but in my career.”

On March 26, 2025, Capilano University will honour Ducharme with the Dedicated Award at the Alumni Awards of Excellence – a well-deserved recognition of a leader who tirelessly advocates for his community and inspires future generations.

Thank you to Neptune Terminals, the Dedicated Award Sponsor for the 2025 Alumni Awards of Excellence.