Partner Spotlight: MTN

Partner Spotlight: Empowering Leaders with the Multicultural Trail Network

May 2025

At Multicultural Trail Network (MTN), we are dedicated to making the outdoors more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for BIPOC and newcomer youth in Calgary, Alberta. Many of the young people we work with face barriers—financial costs, lack of transportation, cultural disconnect, and limited representation—that prevent them from feeling like they belong in outdoor spaces. Through subsidized programs, a Gear Library, and BIPOC-led mentorship, we are creating opportunities for racialized youth to explore nature in a supportive and empowering environment.

Thanks to the Outdoor Council of Canada and funding from the David Elton Outdoor Fund*, our team recently completed Field Leader Hiking, Winter, and Overnight training courses. These programs have been invaluable in equipping our volunteers with the skills and confidence to lead outdoor activities safely.

Hira, one of our team members, shared: “The trainings have really helped to boost my confidence in the outdoors, specifically by helping me understand the risks that myself and others may face while recreating. Having this knowledge has not only supported my confidence while leading programs for the Multicultural Trail Network, but has empowered me to take BIPOC friends and family outside into nature who don’t normally recreate.”

Lori, an Indigenous outdoor enthusiast, shared: “The trust and collaboration we shared during the course, combined with the practical application of the skills I had learned, made me realize how much potential we all have as leaders in the outdoors. It was a moment of clarity that solidified my passion for guiding others and experiencing opportunities for growth with Mother Nature.”

Courses like these, we believe, are integral to helping bring more representation to racialized communities in outdoor spaces. As Lori, adds: “Representation matters, and the more leaders we have from diverse backgrounds, the more we can create safe and inviting spaces for everyone. I believe this training will open doors for others, breaking down barriers and showing that everyone belongs in our beautiful outdoor spaces.”

We deeply appreciate the David Elton Outdoor Fund*, the Elton Family and the Outdoor Council of Canada for their commitment to fostering outdoor leadership and increasing accessibility to nature for underrepresented communities. Their support has enabled us to empower youth through safe outdoor experiences, develop leadership skills, and build a sense of belonging in natural spaces.

Together, we are breaking down barriers and ensuring that all folks regardless of background, have the opportunity to experience and lead in the outdoors.

* The David Elton Outdoor Fund (“DEOF”) was created in 2000 in memory of David Elton, who lost his life in March 2000 attempting to rescue a fellow hiker from the sea. The DEOF generously provides funding to the Outdoor Council of Canada for Field Leader program bursaries, encouraging young leaders to develop safety as their primary leadership skill and promote the safe enjoyment of the outdoors.