Soapstone Carving: A small video is made by our Cultural Programs Specialist, Mel Compton. A measured package is delivered to each participant so that they can engage in this activity at home.
Mel Compton is an Urban Mi’kmaq living in Toronto. Her Spirit name translates to “Strong Tree Spirit” and she is Caribou clan. Mel has been involved in youth work for over 15 years. She is a multifaceted artist and enjoys infusing art and creative expression into various programs that she develops and facilitates.
CRE’s Indigenous Knowledge and Curriculum department and N’Amerind Friendship Centre in London, Ont. have been working together over the last 6 months to put together a program that recognizes the need for youth to be able to have access to their Culture and express themselves through meaningful mediums that embrace their identity as Indigenous youth. Our initial venture was in the development of a Cultural March break camp that married Ceremony, Art Therapy and mental health support to develop and strengthen health boundaries, healthy relationships and a powerful sense of identity. Due to the pandemic, our March Break was placed on hold due to safety concerns for our community.