Jeff Young is a Franco-Mi’kmaw professional originally from New Brunswick, now based in Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador. Raised on the Port au Port Peninsula, he has been actively engaged in both volunteer and professional roles across the province since his youth, with a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation and community development.

Though his early exposure to Mi’kmaw heritage was limited, Jeff’s connection to his cultural roots deepened during his high school years and expanded meaningfully in the years that followed. Since 2018, he has actively participated in sacred ceremonies, traditional teachings, and volunteer initiatives within Mi’kmaw communities, gaining valuable insight into traditional medicines and practices.

Jeff’s leadership within the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation (MCF) began with his appointment as a Director, followed by his service as Secretary. In 2021, he made history as the organization’s first Executive Director and now serves as President & CEO. His tenure has been marked by the strengthening of relationships within Indigenous communities across Newfoundland and Labrador and the expansion of MCF’s cultural and educational initiatives.

Professionally, Jeff brings extensive experience across multiple sectors. He is the owner of Bayside Consulting Inc., offering strategic consulting services and short- and long-term housing solutions. His previous work with the Federal Government enhanced his expertise in federal governance, compliance, and financial operations.

Guided by the principle of Etuaptmumk—the Mi’kmaw concept of "two-eyed seeing"—Jeff integrates Indigenous knowledge systems with Western frameworks to foster culturally grounded yet operationally effective solutions. This balanced approach enables him to support non-profits, businesses, and community organizations in aligning cultural values with strategic planning and organizational sustainability.

With a robust academic foundation in business studies, Jeff excels in strategic development, organizational management, and sustainable community planning. His interdisciplinary expertise and deep cultural commitment reflect a vision for transformative, long-term change that empowers Indigenous communities and advances reconciliation through action.

With a deep-rooted commitment to cultural integrity, community empowerment, and responsible leadership, Jeff brings both lived experience and professional expertise to the table. His understanding of local needs—shaped by years of service, listening, and collaborative action—positions him to be a strong and effective voice for the region. He is ready to advocate with integrity, lead with compassion, and work tirelessly to ensure communities are heard, respected, and supported at every level.