Future leaders learn from inspiring mentors in Indigenous community
- EFN Staff | March 18, 2014
Several lucky youth from across Saskatchewan were fortunate to spend a week with Indigenous leaders from around Canada as part of a process to mentor future leaders in our country. The Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan (AFCS), in partnership with the B.C. Centre of Excellence for Young Indigenous Leaders hosted the 1st Annual Aboriginal Youth Leadership Symposium in Saskatoon.
This symposium has run for 7 years in BC and people in Saskatchewan saw it as a good fit.
"This project supports the work of AFCS, who strive to improve the lives of urban Aboriginal people across Saskatchewan by providing culturally-relevant programs and services," said Gwen Bear, Executive Director of the AFCS.
The symposium brought 17 Aboriginal youth from around Saskatchewan between the ages of 18-29, to work and learn from successful Aboriginal leaders in areas such as finance, governance, leadership strategies, wellness and traditional knowledge. The week was designed to be intimate, to inspire, and to give each youth the attention they deserve.
Kristen Charles of La Ronge appreciated the new and extra friends.
"The best thing I received this week was a sense of knowing that I have a solid network of like-minded individuals around the province that I can turn to in times of need and strength," she added.
Facilitators included former Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Phil Fontaine, Saskatchewan Party MLA Jennifer Campeau, Actor Errol Kinistino, Aboriginal Banking Specialists for RBC David Reid and Thomas Benjoe, and Rick Brant, Director of Aboriginal Sport, Recreation and Physical Activity Partners Council. Put together, these people can have a big impact on a young person and their future goals.
"The symposium was more than I expected. The best thing that I took away from last week was the terms 'Decolonize, Re-culturalize' and 'break the cycle,'" said Howard Cameron, of Beardy's and Okemasis. "Those two sayings really hit home for me because I needed that reassurance and motivation to pursue my dream to bring change."
And it may have also inspired the next generation of activists, like Naomi Corrigal of Beauval.
"The best thing would be the 'Moose Hide Campaign.' I want to work on getting the word out about the violence against aboriginal women and children and it will be a great start to something new!"
Also on hand were Elders Maria and Walter Linklater for their teachings and wisdom. Also appearing to support the youth was the Minister of Advanced Education, the Honorable Rob Norris, and Herb Cox, Legislative Secretary.
"The week had a very powerful impact on myself as I start my own healing journey," said Michelle Lachance of Big River.
"The AFCS is grateful to our major sponsors Ministry of First Nations & Métis Relations, AANDC, and RBC," said Director Gwen Bear. "Thanks also to supporters Cameco, BHP Billiton, SIGA, and Barb Klassen. We also owe gratitude to Paul Lacerte for facilitating and giving the training needed for AFCS to make the symposium an annual event. We are really looking forward to next year."