Reflections from the Canadian Evaluation Society Conference 2026: Advancing Indigenous Evaluation through Relationships, Respect, and Learning

Randika De Mel, Manager of Asia Pacific Evaluation Association 

I am grateful to EvalIndigenous for supporting my participation in the Canadian Evaluation Society Conference 2026 in Edmonton, Canada. The conference provided a valuable opportunity to learn, share knowledge, and build relationships with evaluators from around the world.

​A highlight of my visit was presenting the EvalIndigenous Blossoming Grant study, “Indigenous Decision-Making Traditions of the Indigenous Community of Sri Lanka: Developing Indigenous Methodologies for Evaluation.” Conducted by the Asia Pacific Evaluation Association (APEA) in partnership with the Center for Evaluation at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, the study explored Indigenous decision-making traditions and their potential integration into Indigenous evaluation methodologies

During my presentation, I shared key findings on the importance of meaningful community engagement in evaluation. The study demonstrated that integrating traditional practices can make evaluation more accessible, culturally respectful, and relevant to Indigenous communities. It also reinforced that evaluation should be relational, respectful, and regenerative, valuing storytelling and lived experiences alongside conventional measures of progress.

The conference also provided an opportunity to learn about the progress of the Wolastoq Declaration on Indigenous Evaluation, which emphasizes honouring Indigenous rights, protecting knowledge sovereignty, and mobilizing traditional paradigms. In addition, I gained insights into EvalIndigenous-funded initiatives in Latin America and Africa that focus on relationship building with Indigenous communities, Indigenous data sovereignty, and decolonial approaches to evaluation. 

Throughout the conference, sessions and keynote presentations highlighted the importance of recognizing Indigenous land rights, sovereignty, and cultural preservation when working with Indigenous communities. These discussions reinforced the need for evaluation approaches that respect Indigenous knowledge systems and support self-determination.

Beyond the learning opportunities, the conference enabled me to connect with evaluators from diverse backgrounds and strengthen professional relationships. As Manager of APEA, these networking opportunities are invaluable for fostering collaboration and advancing evaluation practice across regions.

Overall, the conference was an enriching experience that strengthened my understanding of Indigenous evaluation and reaffirmed the importance of culturally grounded, community-led approaches.