Global Indigenous Cultural Initiative

International Indigenous Cultural Ambassador

Promoting Indigenous cultural diplomacy, leadership, heritage preservation, international cooperation and global solidarity among Indigenous Peoples.

About IICA

Cultural Diplomacy and Indigenous Leadership

Connecting Indigenous Cultures Across the World

International Indigenous Cultural Ambassador, abbreviated as IICA, is an international initiative established to promote Indigenous identity, cultural diplomacy, international friendship, leadership, collaboration and meaningful participation among Indigenous Peoples.

IICA provides a platform for Indigenous cultural ambassadors to represent their communities, introduce their cultural heritage, share traditional knowledge, strengthen international networks and encourage mutual respect between Indigenous Peoples and the wider global community.

Through cultural exchange, education, arts, advocacy, community engagement and international cooperation, IICA works to strengthen the visibility and dignity of Indigenous Peoples. The initiative also supports the preservation of Indigenous languages, traditions, customary values, ancestral knowledge and sustainable relationships with nature.

IICA connects Indigenous organisations, governments, educational institutions, cultural communities, researchers, artists, youth leaders and international partners to create opportunities for dialogue, capacity building, cultural promotion and collective action.

Direction

Vision and Mission

Building an international movement that places Indigenous culture, knowledge, leadership and dignity at the centre of global cooperation.

Vision

To become a leading international platform for Indigenous cultural diplomacy, leadership development, heritage preservation and global cooperation among Indigenous Peoples.

Mission

  • Promote Indigenous culture, identity and traditional knowledge internationally.
  • Develop capable and responsible Indigenous cultural ambassadors.
  • Strengthen cooperation between Indigenous communities and international partners.
  • Encourage cultural exchange, dialogue and mutual understanding.
  • Support Indigenous youth, women, artists, leaders and community institutions.
Our Objectives

Advancing Indigenous Peoples Globally

IICA develops cultural leadership and international partnerships through interconnected programmes and community-based initiatives.

Global Representation

Strengthen Indigenous representation and voices in regional and international forums.

Cultural Preservation

Support the preservation of Indigenous arts, languages, traditions and living heritage.

Leadership Development

Build leadership capacity among Indigenous youth, women, artists and community leaders.

International Partnership

Develop cooperation with organisations, institutions, governments and cultural networks.

Sustainable Development

Promote development approaches based on Indigenous knowledge and harmony with nature.

Global Solidarity

Encourage cooperation, dignity and mutual support among Indigenous Peoples worldwide.

Strategic Priorities

Programmes and Strategic Action

IICA translates its vision into practical programmes that strengthen culture, leadership and cooperation.

STRATEGY 01

Cultural Exchange

Organising international visits, cultural exhibitions, performances and community exchanges.

STRATEGY 02

Ambassador Development

Providing orientation, cultural diplomacy, communication and leadership development.

STRATEGY 03

Global Networking

Connecting Indigenous organisations and communities through regional and international networks.

STRATEGY 04

Research and Documentation

Supporting documentation of Indigenous languages, knowledge, history and cultural practices.

STRATEGY 05

Youth and Women Empowerment

Expanding opportunities for Indigenous youth and women in leadership and cultural advocacy.

STRATEGY 06

Public Engagement

Promoting Indigenous knowledge and cultural understanding through media and public events.

IICA Cultural Ambassador
Ambassador Role

Responsibilities of an IICA Ambassador

Represent Indigenous Culture

Represent the cultural identity, heritage and values of Indigenous communities with dignity.

Promote Cultural Dialogue

Build understanding and friendship through intercultural dialogue and international cooperation.

Develop Global Networks

Connect Indigenous organisations, institutions and international cultural partners.

Protect Indigenous Heritage

Advocate for the protection of ancestral knowledge, languages, traditions and nature.

Official Resources

Committee and Publications

Access the official IICA committee document and published media coverage.

IICA Committee

View the official International Indigenous Cultural Ambassador committee document, organisational structure and appointments.

View Committee PDF

News and Media

Read published news, newspaper reports, announcements and media coverage related to IICA programmes and activities.

Explore IICA News

Part of the IPDAY 2026 Initiative

Return to the IPDAY 2026 official event guide to explore the programme, committee, gallery, documents and event information.

Back to IPDAY 2026