Red Deer Catholic celebrate Indigenous culture and education at Inspiring Success Youth Conference

In a vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture and education, approximately 30 students from six Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools and Indigenous Education Services team members participated in the Inspiring Success Youth Conference 2024, held at Red Deer Polytechnic on Thursday, April 11.

The conference opened with traditional opening ceremonies, featuring an opening prayer and a smudge ceremony, setting a reverent tone for the day’s activities. Students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rich array of cultural workshops and sessions throughout the event.

The diverse program included interactive sessions on medicine wheel wellness, Indigenous games, Métis finger weaving, hide tanning, Indigenous languages, Métis dot art, beading, and drumming. These activities were designed to provide the students with hands-on experiences that deepen their understanding of Indigenous cultures and traditions.

An integral part of the conference was the opportunity for students to engage with local Elders. These interactions allowed for meaningful conversations and the sharing of wisdom, further enhancing the educational experience. Additionally, students participated in Indigenous land-based education, gaining insights into the environmental aspects of traditional knowledge.

The event also included a communal lunch, where students enjoyed conny potts soup and bannock, celebrating traditional Indigenous cuisine and fostering a sense of community among participants.

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