First Nations and government representatives got together last week for a capacity-building conference.

This is the fourth year the Yukon government, federal government and Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) have funded the conference, called Foundations for Our Future in 2012.

The free, two-day event saw about 120 people from 13 Yukon First Nations (no one attended from the Ross River Dena Council), as well as several delegates from B.C. First Nations.

The event's keynote speaker, Chief Clarence Louie of the Osoyoos Indian Band, spoke on economic development and self-sufficiency.

The south Okanagan Valley band has established business ventures ranging from golf courses to a construction company.

A press event with a panel of speakers from the conference was scheduled for last Thursday, but only two government representatives and the executive director of the CYFN, Michelle Kola, participated in the end.

Reporters were not allowed to attend the rest of the conference.

John Burdek, the assistant deputy minister of the governance liaison and capacity development branch, explained what the conference is about. He said the goal is to "share information and practical solutions” about governance.

Kerry Newkirk, the regional director for Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, said there is a huge advantage for people to meet face-to-face at a conference like this.

"At lunch, there was more than one place mat torn up with phone numbers and ideas and maps and sketches,” Newkirk said. "The personal contact is exceptionally valuable.”

Other speakers at the event included Raf De Guevara from the Westbank First Nation and Christa Williams of the First Nations Public Service Secretariat.

Presentations ranged from land development challenges to the CYFN student mentorship program.