National Literacy Forum

David McKie, Managing Editor, manages news, essays and opinion writing at Canada’s National Observer from Ottawa. He is also the guiding force behind much of our data journalism and some of our key investigations. He is a highly valued member of our executive team.

As an award-winning author and journalist, he spent 26 years honing his skills at the CBC where his award-winning work (the CAJ, IRE and Michener) influenced policies in areas such as the adverse reactions of prescription drugs and medical devices, as well as the RCMP’s use of Tasers.

He is the 2020 co-recipient of Canadian Association of Journalism Charles Bury award for outstanding contributions to Canadian journalism (his second Bury award).

David teaches at the schools of journalism at Toronto Metropolitan University, Carleton University and the University of King’s College. He is a trainer with the Canadian Association of Journalists, and a judge for the National Institute for Computer Assisted Reporting’s prestigious Philip Meyer Award. He has co-authored three journalism textbooks and two user guides on access to information laws and privacy and data journalism.

Indra is a leader focused on advancing digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and the responsible use of AI. She is a speaker on AI, digital literacy, and social innovation, and has spoken at the United Nations on youth, AI, decent work, and AI literacy as a human right. Previously, she led a global initiative at the Raspberry Pi Foundation to help bridge the digital divide, and now serves on the boards of Québec Tech and as an advisor to Mila’s Startup Committee.

Marc Alexandre Ladouceur is a Media Education Specialist responsible for creating resources for educators, parents, and community groups, and leading outreach activities with French-language schools and organizations across Canada. He holds a master’s degree in theology and bachelor’s degrees in education and theology, and has worked as a teacher, facilitator, editor, and translator. He is committed to supporting well-being through comprehensive digital literacy and education in an era of rapidly evolving technology.

Darion Ducharme is the Founder and CEO of Teqare, an Indigenous-owned education and technology training organization based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Through Teqare, he delivers programs in digital literacy, cyber security, financial literacy, and artificial intelligence for First Nations communities across Canada. Darion’s work focuses on making technology education more accessible, practical, and community-centred. He is also a frequent keynote speaker and advocate for digital inclusion, helping learners build the skills and confidence needed to navigate today’s digital world.