To highlight the work CREation Grantees are doing in their communities, the CREation Community Grants Team sends out Q&A forms so they can share their experiences creating and carrying out their projects. Today we are featuring responses from Jeffrey Young of the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation on their Reconnecting Youth: Culture and Arts initiative.
Community: Kippens, NL
Q : Tell us about your group and project!
A : The Foundation exists to ensure cultural documentation and promote the involvement of youth and Elders in cultural activities. We strive to inspire our people to proudly embrace their heritage, empower them to continue the traditions of our Ancestors, and restore the spirit of Mi’kmaq culture in Newfoundland and Labrador. This specific project focuses on hosting monthly arts and crafts workshops over zoom to bring together Indigenous youth from both on and off the island.
Q : As the youth running the project, what impact do you hope it will have?
A : To enable more Indigenous youth to learn about their culture. Each month, we are offering a different workshop. These workshops are instructed in a traditional way by an Indigenous person. Registered youth receive a kit containing the materials needed to participate. Youth are connected to their culture through traditional crafting methods. Youth experience mental health benefits by connecting with other youth and their culture.
Q : What is something you have learned?
A : Everyone is on a different path in their quest to relearn their culture.
Q : What is your favourite moment from running your project?
A : Witnessing the youth being engaged in learning. Seeing them come back and participate in more workshops and teachings.
We are so proud of the heart-work our young relatives like Jeffrey Young from the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation team are doing across Turtle Island and are so lucky to be able to support them in their work.