Mar 13, 2025
Langara College is a partner in AFOA Canada’s Indigenous Financial Management Certificate Program, which helps Indigenous professionals build financial expertise and advance their careers. The program is a stepping stone toward the Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) designation and further credentials like the CPA.
For Indigenous professionals looking to build expertise in financial management, AFOA Canada has partnered with Langara College to offer the Indigenous Financial Management Certificate program, which provides a clear pathway to success. This specialized program is the first step toward earning the Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) designation, awarded by AFOA Canada. It also allows students to transfer credits toward further education, including the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) program.
A collaborative effort to strengthen Indigenous financial leadership.
The Indigenous Financial Management Certificate program was developed through a partnership between Langara College, AFOA Canada, and AFOA British Columbia, organizations dedicated to supporting Indigenous financial professionals.
Our objective is to empower individuals through financial education, enabling them to serve their communities better.
– Dan Relihan, Program Coordinator
This initiative helps bridge the gap between Indigenous communities and the financial sector, giving professionals the skills needed to manage finances effectively and strengthen self-governance.
Personal experiences: Lisa and Bryon Mason’s journey.
Lisa Mason, a graduate of the program, found the experience transformative. After 25 years working in the finance department at Seabird Island Band, she took the leap to formalize her skills through this program.
“This was the very first educational program I’ve taken. Everything else was learned on the job, so I was actually really nervous to go back to school after so many years,” Lisa shares.
With a supportive learning environment fostered by Langara and AFOA, Lisa felt welcomed. “The welcome ceremony and cultural aspect made us feel so supported. It was huge in how we were all successful in passing the course,” she recalls.
Her success inspired her husband, Bryon Mason, to enroll. “When she got it and did very well, honestly, I was super jealous. I thought, ‘I’d like a little piece of that pie,’” he admits. Now a student in the program, Bryon sees it as a valuable path in his career at Seabird Island Development Corporation.
Blending financial management with cultural understanding.
Beyond financial literacy, the program integrates Indigenous cultural perspectives to provide students with a well-rounded education.
Lisa credits the program for giving her greater confidence in her role.
It changed me for work; I understand my job better. The program helped me gain more responsibilities and confidence.
– Lisa Mason, Indigenous Financial Management Certificate program graduate
Bryon agrees, emphasizing the importance of peer support and a collaborative environment. “Just having the support and understanding from the program, I feel it’s putting me on a projection for my career,” he says.
Building a future in Indigenous financial management.
As Bryon continues his studies, both he and Lisa are looking ahead to advancing their qualifications, with plans to pursue diplomas and eventually CPA designations.
The Indigenous Financial Management Certificate Program not only prepares students for professional success but also strengthens community ties. “This program is a stepping stone to see all our staff and members grow and be more successful,” Lisa says.
Start your own journey.
The Indigenous Financial Management Certificate is designed for Indigenous professionals across British Columbia looking to enhance their financial management expertise. Graduates can pursue the Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) designation and have the opportunity to transfer credits toward the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) program.
If you are a member of an Indigenous Nation in BC, contact AFOA BC for more information.
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